Regular inspection and maintenance of water storage tanks are crucial for maintaining water quality in the distribution system and extending the tank’s lifespan. Routine inspections help identify minor issues early before they escalate into major problems, which could pose health risks and lead to expensive repairs or premature tank failure. Neglecting regular tank cleaning can result in contamination events that jeopardize human health or cause aesthetic concerns.
There are two main types of inspections:
- Typically, wet inspections are performed either by certified divers or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). Wet inspections are often required by state regulations to assess water quality.
- Issues identified during wet inspections often present challenges during dry inspections. Dry inspections focus primarily on evaluating structural damage and checking coating thickness for steel tanks. It’s important to note that dry inspections require the tank to be emptied and taken out of service. Dry inspections typically cost three times more than wet inspections.
How Often Should a Water System Inspect and Clean Storage Tanks?
The frequency of water tank inspections and cleanings depends on the type of tank and your water quality. Generally, you should get your tank inspected at least every five years, or more often if your state requires it. Cleaning and repairs should be done based on what the inspector finds. It’s also recommended to do additional checks in between scheduled maintenance.
Since water quality regulations changed in 2017, it’s important to find an inspector who can take in-service temperature readings to check for stratification (layering) in the water.
Circulation
Water usually enters and leaves your tank through pipes at the bottom. If it fills up faster than it’s used, the level rises. The opposite happens when you use water faster than it’s refilled. But if the flow in and out stays steady, the tank takes out the newer water at the bottom.
The problem is, without any mixing, the water on top gets stagnant. This stagnant water can lose chlorine, which is used to kill bacteria. When that happens, bacteria can grow, and the water might start to taste or smell bad.
A simple and affordable solution to this problem is to install a mixer in your tank. Mixers keep the water circulating, preventing stagnation and ensuring you always have fresh, clean water.
Making Sure Your Water is Safe to Drink Again
No matter how you clean your tank, it’s crucial to test the water for bacteria before using it again. Finding coliform bacteria in the water after disinfection means there could still be harmful contaminants present.
While testing helps ensure the water is free of harmful microbes, it’s important to also check the tank itself for other problems. Over time, dirt, mud, sand, rust, and other debris can settle at the bottom, hiding what should be a clean white surface under inches of sediment. This buildup can even clog the outlet pipes if left unchecked.
Our friendly and experienced customer service team is here to answer any questions you have about water tank cleaning and maintenance. We offer reliable services in Houston, Texas and Longbeach, California.
Call NFPA 25 Inspections LA by American Tanks at +1 800 656 0167
Or email at info@nfpa25inspections.la
