Common Water Tank Issues and How to Fix Them

For many New Zealanders, their water tank is an essential item, providing clean, safe drinking water directly to their home. 

However, over time, tanks can develop several common issues, impacting water quality and potentially affecting your family’s health. 

In this blog, we’ll explore these frequent water tank problems and provide practical solutions to address them effectively.

Identifying Common Water Tank Issues

Before we can solve these issues, it’s crucial to recognise the common signs that your water tank might need attention. Here are some typical problems Kiwi homeowners face:

Sediment Build-Up

Sediment accumulation is an unavoidable issue in water tanks, building up over time. Sediment can include dirt, pollen, sand, organic matter, and rust particles, which settle at the bottom of your tank.

Over time, sediment build-up can lead to contamination, colour and taste issues and clogged filters.

Solution: Regular cleaning and sediment removal by professional services such as Safe H2O can effectively resolve this. Safe H2O use vacuum systems to remove sediment and filtration to remove anything in suspension, retaining 90% plus of your water.

Bacterial Contamination

Bacteria and other dangerous micro-organisms will get into your water supply – for example from bird droppings. Sediment build-up creates ideal conditions for harmful bacteria to flourish.

Bacteria such as E.coli can significantly affect water quality and can cause serious health issues.

Solution: Employing advanced water filtration systems and regular tank cleaning along with occasional antibacterial treatments (such as hydrogen peroxide) can eliminate bacteria and dangerous micro-organisms effectively.

Algae Formation

Exposure to sunlight and warm conditions can lead to algae growth, turning your water green and giving it a foul smell and taste.

Solution: Covering your tank securely at all times and limiting any sunlight exposure prevents algae growth. This along with regular tank inspections and cleaning help ensure algae doesn’t develop.

Tannins

Tannins from organic matter such as the leaves of many of New Zealand’s native trees tend to steep in a water tank and release their tannins.  These discolour the water and taint the water’s taste over time.  

Solution: Keep your roof and gutters clean, consider leaf diverters and some sort of first flush diverter and regularly clean your water tank to remove the offending leaves. 

C carbon filter can help remove colour and some taste when the water goes into the house, but this is treating the symptom and not removing the cause as a regular  tank clean does.

Insect and/or animal incursion 

Insects such a mosquitoes, can enter a tank and breed there if there are gaps in the supply.  Similarly, birds or animals can get into the tanks from the roof or gaps in the supply.  

Solution: Inspect the water supply to ensure there are no gaps or holes where insects or animals can enter the tank.  Cover outlet pipes with a fine gauze to stop insects or birds entering.

Why Professional Tank Maintenance Matters

Addressing these issues effectively often requires more than basic DIY tanks cleaning methods. While regular self-maintenance helps, professional cleaning services like Safe H2O offer comprehensive and specialised solutions, ensuring optimal water quality and tank longevity.

Professional Inspection and Early Detection

A professional inspection can identify problems before they escalate, saving you time and money. Trained technicians have the expertise to spot early signs of contamination, algae growth, or sediment accumulation, ensuring these are addressed promptly and effectively.

Advanced Cleaning Techniques

Professional services use specialised equipment like vacuum pumps and filtration systems that remove sediment, contaminants, and bacteria more effectively than DIY methods. Safe H2O’s unique filtration process retains most of your tank’s water while thoroughly purifying it.

Sustainable and Efficient Solutions

Safe H2O offers eco-friendly services, significantly reducing water waste by conserving up to 90% of your tank’s existing water. This environmentally conscious approach is not only better for the planet but also cost-effective for homeowners.

Preventive Measures for Long-Term Tank Health

Implementing preventive measures can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of water tank issues.

Regular Maintenance Schedule

Establish a regular tank cleaning schedule, ideally every 1-2 years, or more frequently if you live in a high-sediment or coastal area. Regular professional cleaning ensures your water quality remains consistently high.

Keep your roof and gutters clean

Regularly cleaning your roof and gutters minimises the amount of sediment that will enter your tank.  A flush cap that you open when there is a rain event also is a simple way to flush away the worst of what was on your roof before it gets in your water tank.

Proper Tank Installation and Covering

Ensure your tank is installed on a stable, level base and fitted with a secure lid or cover to limit sunlight exposure and contamination. Regularly check the supply to ensure it remains airtight. This significantly reduces algae growth and sediment entry.

Taking Action for Safe Drinking Water

Regular attention to your water tank’s health ensures you have reliable access to clean, safe drinking water. Recognising the signs of common tank issues and addressing them proactively is vital.

Professional tank cleaning and maintenance services from Safe H2O offer a reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective way to manage your tank health. Using advanced equipment, professional expertise, and environmentally friendly practices, Safe H2O ensures your water remains safe, clean, and healthy.

Contact Safe H2O today for a free consultation, and let our team help you maintain the quality of your water and the integrity of your tank.