"Rusted Remnants" by Stuart Smith, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
Choose the Right Foundation and Installation
Before any ongoing maintenance for your water tank, it’s important to note that a proper base or foundation and a correct installation will make things far easier to keep on top of down the track. If you’re still in the planning phase of installing a steel water tank, make sure your water tank’s pad is:
-
Level: An even, stable base reduces the strain on your steel tank which can lead to leaks and other issues.
-
Use a Quality Pad or Slab: Concrete slabs, compacted crusher dust, or paver pads are the only pads suitable for Aquaplate steel water tanks.
-
Position the Tank Correctly: Ensure your tank is located where it can easily be connected to your roof guttering system for a simple connection and where you can readily inspect and maintain it.
Regular Visual Inspections
Performing simple, quick, and regular visual checks is the simplest way to catch small issues before they escalate:
-
Check for Signs of Rust: Damage to the material of the tank can cause a point of corrosion. Detecting this early means it can be quickly nipped in the bud.
-
Inspect Guttering and Inlets: Ensure your guttering system is free of leaves and debris, and that the inlet to the tank is clear. Clogged inlets can promote water overflowing out of the top of the tank instead of down your stormwater system which can cause issues,
-
Look for Organic Buildup: Make sure the top or sides of your tank don’t have excessive leaf debris or other organic material consistently held against its surface. Something as simple as a pile of leaves on the lid of the tank will help moisture stay trapped against the surface of the metal which can cause early corrosion. A simple hose off of this debris will keep your steel water tank’s exterior clean and long-lasting.
Maintain Your Stored Water Quality
Storing high-quality water in your tank isn’t just about the water’s taste or usability—it plays a large part in protecting the interior of your steel tank from potential mineral buildup or algae growth leading to corrosion. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve water quality is by installing a first flush diverter of adequate size.
The Importance of a First Flush Diverter
A first flush diverter captures the initial runoff from your roof when it starts raining, diverting leaves, dirt, bird droppings, and other contaminants away from your water tank. Here’s why it’s a must:
-
Prevents Contamination: The initial runoff typically contains the highest concentration of pollutants. By diverting this water, you reduce the amount of sediment and organic matter entering your tank.
-
Reduces Maintenance: With fewer contaminants accumulating inside, the tank requires less frequent cleaning.
-
Prolongs Tank Lifespan: Cleaner water means less corrosive activity against the tank’s interior lining and steel walls.
Choosing the Right Size: Ensure your first flush diverter is adequately sized for your roof catchment area. If the diverter is too small, it may overflow quickly and let contaminants through. Consult with a professional or reference the Australian Government’s Department of Health guidelines on rainwater harvesting for more information on sizing and installation.
Clean and Maintain the Interior
Over time, sediment, debris, and algae can accumulate inside the tank, affecting water quality and potentially damaging the interior lining (if your steel tank has one). To keep your water clean and healthy:
-
Observe: How frequently you need to clean can depend on several factors like your catchment area size, local foliage, and water usage. We recommend removing your inlet strainer to check on the quality of the water being stored in your tank more frequently after it is first installed so you can get an idea of what frequency you should be cleaning the water inside your tank.
-
Find information available on our website about cleaning your water tank yourself or hire a professional company to do so for you while retaining your currently stored water.
Keep Gutters and Roof Catchments Clean
Your gutters and roof are the starting points for the water entering your steel tank. Ensuring they’re well-maintained helps prevent debris and pollutants from making their way into the water supply.
-
Clean Gutters Regularly: Remove leaves, branches, and other debris. This not only protects water quality but also prevents overflow issues.
-
Repair Damaged Gutters: Leaks or holes in the gutters can result in water pooling around the tank base or in places where it can cause rust.
-
Trim Overhanging Branches: Trees near your catchment area increase leaf and debris fall, so trimming them back can reduce maintenance.
Monitor Water Quality for Safety
Beyond regular cleaning and inspections, it’s wise to test your stored water periodically to ensure it remains safe for its intended use—be it drinking, household chores, or irrigation. You can either use DIY test kits or send samples to a professional lab for more comprehensive analysis. Refer to the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) guidelines for up-to-date information on drinking water standards in Australia.
Conclusion
Maintaining a steel water tank to get the maximum lifespan is as simple as an infrequent check to ensure everything is going smoothly and largely about consistent care with proactive measures before minor issues become major problems. Regular inspections, a well-maintained first flush diverter, clean gutters, and attention to corrosion can extend your tank’s life by many years even beyond their already impressive warranties. Investing a little time and effort now helps you enjoy a reliable supply of high-quality water, whether it’s for drinking, gardening, or even industrial needs.
If you’re considering a new steel water tank or need expert advice on maintaining your current one, contact our team at CCWT for personalized guidance. We’re here to ensure your water storage system remains both durable and dependable for years to come.