Water Tank Longevity are a critical component of many industrial, commercial, and residential operations. They serve to store water for various purposes, including drinking, manufacturing, firefighting, and irrigation. They are long-term investments. They are expected to provide a reliable and continuous supply of clean water for many years.
This is why yearly inspections and maintenance ensure the longevity, performance, and safety of these essential tanks.
Why do yearly inspections and maintenance contribute to longevity?
Yearly inspections are a fundamental component of any water tank maintenance plan. These inspections serve to assess the condition of the tank, identify potential issues, and allow for timely intervention. Here’s why yearly inspections are so crucial:
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- – Identifying Early Warning Signs. Yearly inspections allow you to catch early signs of damage or wear and tear, such as corrosion, leaks, or structural weaknesses. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more extensive and costly repairs down the road
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- – Preventing Contamination. Regular maintenance and cleaning help prevent the buildup of sediments, algae, or other contaminants that can affect water quality. This is especially important if the tank stores potable water.
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- – Maintaining Water Quality. Regular inspections can ensure that the tank’s components like screens, inlets, and vents are functioning correctly, helping to maintain water quality.
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- – Extending Tank Life. Routine maintenance, such as cleaning and repainting (if applicable), can extend the life of the tank by protecting it from corrosion and deterioration.
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- – Optimizing Performance. Yearly inspections allow you to assess the tank’s performance and functionality, making any necessary adjustments to ensure it meets your water storage needs.
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- – Meeting Regulatory Requirements. Many regulatory bodies require regular inspections and maintenance of water storage tanks to ensure public health and safety. Compliance with these requirements is essential to avoid fines or legal issues.
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- – Preventing Catastrophic Failures. Regular inspections can catch structural issues or weak points in the tank before they lead to catastrophic failures, which can result in significant damage and safety hazards.
Key Aspects of Yearly Inspections
Yearly inspections should encompass various key aspects to ensure comprehensive coverage and address potential concerns. Here are the primary components of a thorough inspection:
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- – Structural Integrity. Check for signs of rust, corrosion, cracks, or any physical damage to the tank’s structure.
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- – Interior Cleanliness. Assess the tank’s interior for sediment buildup, microbial growth, or any contaminants.
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- – Water Quality. Perform water quality tests to ensure that the stored water meets safety and quality standards.
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- – Operational Components. Inspect valves, pipes, fittings, and any operational components for proper functionality.
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- – Liner Condition. If the tank is lined, assess the liner’s condition, looking for signs of wear or damage.
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- – Roof and Overflow Systems. Examine the roof, overflow systems, and vents to ensure they are free of debris and functioning correctly.
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- – Regulatory Compliance. Verify that the tank adheres to industry-specific regulations.
Proper Maintenance of Water Storage Tanks
Yearly inspections often lead to maintenance actions. Maintaining the water tank is the next crucial step in maximizing longevity. Here are some maintenance tasks to consider:
Regular Weekly Foundation Checks
Water tank maintenance is crucial due to their durability and harsh environments. Detecting cracks, deterioration, or corrosion early can prevent costly damage. Regular inspections and cleanings are recommended every three to five years, replacing liners and yearly cleanouts for high sediment areas. Understanding the unique weather and location of your tank can help ensure proper maintenance.
Take Care of the Coating
A high-quality coating is critical for lowering maintenance costs over time. Your tank’s primary defence against corrosion is the coating. High-quality coatings and water tank liners will help eliminate metal loss, saving you money on costly welding repairs. Maintaining a good coating allows you to simply “topcoat” each year instead of starting from scratch when it comes time for maintenance.
If you’re going to outsource your water tank coating work, make sure you get very detailed and specific documents about the type of coating work you want. Anyone hired to work on the coating should be familiar with the atmospheric conditions unique to your area. These include humidity, due point, air, and steel temperatures, all of which have an impact on the coat’s lifespan. If the weather turns bad, a good contractor will call it quits.
While You’re At It, Keep Up with Technology
Every year, new advances in water tank technology are made. While it may not be as flashy as a new smartphone or gadget announced at a major tech conference, advancements in storage tank maintenance are being made. 100% solids coatings, for example, and improved active and passive mixing systems are both new trending technologies. Knowing about new technology can help you get the most out of your water tank liners and other equipment as you maintain your tanks.
Eliminate Algae (when possible)
While this isn’t always possible when it is, do it. Use a completely opaque water storage tank to eliminate algae. Algae requires light to grow because it uses photosynthesis. The use of an opaque tank eliminates light, creating an environment in which algae cannot grow. In addition, add 1/4 teaspoon of bleach to each gallon of stored water.
Of course, this should only be done with tanks where it is legal. Bleach can kill existing algae and prevent the growth of new algae. Use 5.25% hypochlorite bleach, and NEVER combine bleach and chlorine in the same solution. Use either one or the other. If you’re going to use chlorine, use 4 parts chlorine to 1 million parts water. Water is safe to drink or use for irrigation even at this low ratio. However, if you are concerned, you should first consult with your local regulators.
These suggestions will assist you in maintaining a proper water storage tank. Remember that proper prior maintenance makes a significant difference in the long run. Avoid costly repairs by maintaining your water tank today.
Longevity is Guaranteed at Raven Tanks!
Maximize the longevity of your water tank by prioritizing yearly inspections and maintenance. Contact Raven Tanks at 1800 907 834 or email us at [email protected] to discuss your inspection and maintenance needs. Let us be your trusted partner in ensuring the reliability and safety of your water storage system.-
