Industrial water tanks are critical to a wide range of businesses and organizations, providing a reliable water supply for various industrial processes. Like all equipment, these tanks require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Routine Tank Cleaning
Cleaning your water tank regularly, ideally twice a year, is crucial to prevent the buildup of sediment, rust, and bacteria. Accumulated debris can cause blockages, reduce water flow, and lead to potential contamination.
Leak Inspections
Regularly inspect your water tank for leaks and promptly address any issues found to prevent further damage. Leaks not only result in water loss but also pose risks of structural harm.
Tank Insulation
Insulating your water tank helps conserve energy by reducing heat loss. Additionally, insulation prevents condensation, which can lead to corrosion and the premature degradation of your tank.
Scheduled Maintenance
Routine maintenance by a certified technician is vital to ensure the optimal functioning of your water tank. A technician can check valves and connections, perform cleaning and flushing, and identify any potential leaks.
Maintaining a Clean and Fresh Water Supply in Storage Tanks
Many owners of water storage tanks often express concerns about keeping their water supply clean and fresh. Here are some effective solutions to address this common concern:
1. Choose the Right Water Storage Tank
While it might seem obvious, many people overlook the importance of selecting a suitable tank for water storage. To ensure your water remains safe for consumption, opt for a food-grade tank. Tanks made from materials like polyethylene or stainless steel are non-toxic and widely used for storing potable water. Additionally, make sure that all components such as fittings and pipes are lead-free to avoid contamination.
2. Consider the Impact of Tank Materials on Water Taste
The material of your water tank can sometimes affect the taste of the water. For example, galvanized tanks might impart a metallic taste initially due to zinc leaching. Likewise, new concrete tanks can release excess lime, leading to a high pH and potentially a bitter taste. Different tank materials can cause the water to become acidic or develop unusual flavors, so it’s important to choose materials that will not negatively affect the water quality.
3. Clean the Tank Regularly
It’s recommended to clean your water storage tank at least every six months, regardless of whether it’s made from polyethylene or stainless steel. Regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup of sediment, algae, and bacteria, ensuring your water supply remains clean and safe for use.
How Long Can a Water Storage Tank Last?
Investing in industrial water storage tanks is a significant long-term commitment. Ideally, you want to choose a tank that offers durability over many years. Understanding the lifespan of an industrial water storage tank is crucial before making a purchase. The longevity of these tanks depends on several factors, including the materials used in their construction, their intended use, and their location. Remarkably, some industrial water storage tanks still in use today are over a century old! Here’s what you need to know to extend the lifespan of your industrial water storage tanks.
Materials
Industrial water tanks are typically made from either plastic or metal. Plastic tanks are generally more cost-effective compared to metal ones and require less maintenance. These tanks are non-biodegradable and usually constructed from UV-stabilized polymers, which means they should not degrade over time.
Location
The location of your water tank is another critical factor that influences its lifespan. For metal tanks, rust is a major concern. It’s crucial to avoid placing the tank in areas exposed to wind or saltwater, especially if you’re near the coast. Coastal environments present unique challenges, so adding external sheeting and applying protective treatments can help safeguard your tank from saltwater exposure. Additionally, it’s important to consider the tank’s placement to avoid standing water, which can lead to damage. Ensure the tank is situated on a stable surface. For plastic tanks, excessive exposure to direct sunlight should be minimized to prevent the degradation of UV treatments, particularly in dry, sunny regions.
Tank Use
Water tanks serve various purposes, but their longevity is generally enhanced when they contain clean, pure water. Tanks used for storing saltwater are more prone to corrosion and typically have a shorter lifespan. For tanks intended for drinking water, it is crucial to use a liner, which acts as a protective barrier against oxidation, thereby preventing zinc contamination. However, if you are using a plastic water tank specifically designed for potable water, there is no need for a liner, as the tank is already made from food-grade material.
Regular maintenance is essential to prolong the life of water tanks. Understanding and implementing the necessary steps for maintaining these tanks is vital for extending their service life. Feel free to contact us for further advice on water tank maintenance.
To discuss any of the concepts described here in more detail, our friendly and experienced customer service team can help. We offer tried and tested services around Houston, Texas and Longbeach, California.
Call NFPA 25 Inspections LA by American Tanks at +1 800 656 0167
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