Ever notice how stagnant water in a dirty container becomes a haven for mosquitoes, bacteria, mold, and even diseases? Imagine that container scaled up to a massive water tank supplying entire communities. The health risks, especially for drinking water, would be enormous.
We all know water tanks can get grimy without proper cleaning and maintenance. Simply put, neglecting these tasks means risking contaminated water, making it unsafe for drinking or cooking at home.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg! Contaminated water is only one consequence of skipping water tank inspections. Keep reading to explore the potentially disastrous outcomes of neglecting regular water tank maintenance.
Consequences
Here are some other risks and dangers that come from neglecting water tank maintenance:
- Accumulation of sediment: Dirty tanks gather debris and contaminants that promote corrosion, leading to the buildup of sludge on tank surfaces. This oxidation reduces tank efficiency and poses environmental and health risks.
- Algae growth: Plastic and concrete tanks are vulnerable to algae due to light exposure and porous materials. Algae can coat tank interiors and contaminate household water sources like sinks and showers.
- Presence of deceased animals: Holes in tanks can trap animals like squirrels, leading to drownings. Bird excrement can also enter through openings, posing contamination risks.
- Risk of tank tipping: Stress or damage to tank pipes and supports over time can occur. A filled tank, weighing over 40,000 pounds for a 5000-gallon tank, can strain these structures, posing a hazard if maintenance is neglected.
- Increased costs: Neglected tanks are more likely to suffer premature damage, resulting in higher repair or replacement expenses. Cleaning up poorly-maintained tanks also adds to the financial burden.
Water Tank Contamination
Don’t underestimate the dangers of dirty water tanks! Drinking from a leaky or contaminated tank can make you seriously ill, or even cause death.
Contaminated water supplies have been linked to nasty stomach bugs (gastroenteritis) and infections from algae, bacteria, parasites, and viruses. These illnesses are especially risky for young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
Beyond biological threats, neglected water tanks can also harbor chemical or metal contaminants. For instance, a rusty or corroded metal tank can leach rust into the water. The water might look clear at first, but the rust will eventually turn it a nasty color.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your home’s water clean is vital for everyone’s health. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your water tank is the best way to guarantee a steady flow of safe, drinkable water.
Even if you’re unsure about the water quality, it’s best to be cautious. Dirty tanks can harbor bacteria and other nasty microbes that can cause common illnesses. So, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to protect your family’s health.
Have You Been Neglecting Your Water Tanks Lately?
Worried about dirty water tanks? NFPA 25 Inspections LA by American Tanks is your one-stop shop for all your water tank inspection and maintenance needs!
We’re a leading water tank inspection company in the US, with over 20 years of experience serving customers across the country. Whether you need industrial tank maintenance, concrete tank inspection, cleaning, or even refurbishment, our experts can handle it all.
Our team specializes in finding the root cause of problems like rust, corrosion, and oxidation in your water tanks. We then create custom solutions to get your tank back in top shape. Don’t settle for unsafe water!
Call NFPA 25 Inspections LA by American Tanks at +1 800 656 0167
Or email at info@nfpa25inspections.la
