Don’t trust the tap? Make sure you trust your tank!
When the taps run dry or the water supply becomes unreliable, a backup water tank can make a big difference. It keeps the household moving, whether you need water for flushing toilets, washing, cleaning or simply getting through the day.
But there is one part of backup water that is easy to overlook: the tank itself.
We think about collecting water, filling the tank and making sure there is enough. What we do not always think about is what may be getting into that tank while it is standing there.
Your tank needs a little attention too
A water tank is exposed to more than just rainwater. Dust can enter through a loose lid. Leaves, insects and debris can come in from the gutters. Sediment can settle at the bottom over time.
It does not mean you need to worry every time you look at your tank. It simply means that, like any part of the home, it needs regular care.
A secure lid and clean gutters go a long way. Check the inlet after strong winds or heavy rain. If the water has been sitting for a while, or looks or smells different from usual, give it some attention before you rely on it.
Do not wait until you need the water
Tank hygiene is easy to forget about when everything is working as it should. Then the water supply is interrupted and suddenly that tank becomes very important.
Adding a quick tank check to your normal home routine can save you stress later. Take a look at the lid, the gutters and the water itself every few weeks. It only takes a few minutes.
If your tank is connected to roof gutters, check it after windy weather or a storm. That is often when extra debris finds its way in.
Start with the outside
Before you worry about what is inside the tank, take a look around it. Clear away leaves and dirt that have collected near the base, and make sure the lid still fits properly.
For damp debris and general grime, it helps to wear a pair of long gloves. A garden hose with a strong stream can also make it easier to rinse dirt from the outside of the tank and the area around it.
Keep stored water cared for
Once the tank is clean and secure, it is worth thinking about the water that has been stored inside it.
A water tank disinfectant floater is an easy addition to your regular tank-care routine. Always follow the instructions on the product packaging for your specific tank.
Your water tank is there when you need it most. Keep it covered, keep it checked and make sure you can trust the water you have stored.
