Why clean your water tank?
WHY DO I NEED TO GET MY TANKS CLEANED, IS IT REALLY AN ISSUE?
Yes, in New Zealand it is a very real issue. Unsafe drinking and household water can make you, your family and visitors seriously unwell.
If your water comes from a water collection tank, it is up to you to keep your water safe and reduce the risk of water born illness from contaminated tank water. If you’re unsure about cleaning costs, read our article here about tank cleaning costs.
Chances are high that your tanks will contain one or some lead, pesticides, nitrates, giardia, campylobacter, e-coli and salmonella (in fact 90% of tanks test positive for E.Coli and Faecal Coliform).
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A PROBLEM OR NEED IT DONE?
The Ministry of Health recommend annual inspections and cleaning of your tank. If you haven’t had this done in the last year or longer, your tank will most likely need attention. The following are also signs to look out for:
* Have you, your family or visitors experienced diarrhoea, vomiting or frequents bouts of tummy bugs?
* Do you and your family experience fatigue, headaches, muscle and tummy cramps or generally feel unwell?
* Does your water occasionally taste and smell ‘funny’?
* Does your filter (if you have one) need changing more frequently than is recommended?
* Are you losing water pressure in your house?