Many people do not know how to clean their water tanks. Regular cleaning of the tank means cleaner water, which is important for maintaining good health. Even if you are only using the water for outdoor use (like watering your garden), you must clean your tank on a regular basis.

Many people think a tank always has clean water – but this may not always be the case. For example if you are catching water from your roof then bacteria, leaves and other debris may be contaminating the tank water. Mosquitos, which can spread disease, may try to invade your tank as they need still water to breed in. Wasps also like to nest on the shady sides of tanks. However if you take the time to clean your water tank each year, you will ensure the tank water is clean and hygienic, as well extending the life of your tank for many years.

By following a simple procedure everyone can maintain a clean tank throughout the year. It is recommended to clean the tank at the end of summer when there is usually very little water left. The first step is to turn the power off, if your tank is connected to an electric pump. Because pumps are usually hard wired you will have to turn the breaker off at the electric panel. It is important to unplug it from the electric socket so as to be really sure that the power is off.

The next step is to attach a water hose to the draining valve and feed the hose to your garden or elsewhere (if possible), so as not to waste any water still in the tank. The drained water can be used for other indoor cleaning as well as gardening or washing the car. If your tank has one, the valve that regulates cold water should be turned off at the top of the tank while the hot water valves should be turned on. You may then allow the tank to drain. The tank should be emptied as much as possible, until the water stops flowing out of the hose.

The next step is to run some fresh water from your garden hose through the tank inlet to flush out any remaining dirty water. Keep doing this until the water coming out of the outlet runs clear. Reasonably high pressure water is best as it can easily remove any debris on the side of the tank.

Finally if you have a leaf guard and/or first-flush diverter, you should clean them to remove any leaves or other debris. If you have a cartridge filter installed, think about when you last changed the cartridge. Cartridge filters usually need to be changed about every 6 to 18 months, depending on the level of use. Now you have a clean tank! Of course, you may also hire a professional if you do not want to, or cannot, take on the task of cleaning your water tank yourself. This may be particularly wise when the tank is very large, or heavily soiled.

Now you have a clean tank! Of course, you may also hire a professional if you do not want to, or cannot, take on the task of cleaning your water tank yourself. This may be particularly wise when the tank is very large, or heavily soiled.