A critical detail for the proper storage of potable water is maintenance of the water storage tank.
Though tanks are carefully designed by engineers who specialize in water tanks to withstand corrosion, a part of doing so involves receiving regular inspections and the right care.
Based on this quick overview of the type of tank maintenance services required by most tanks, owners and managers can easily accomplish this and keep all tanks in service as long as possible.
The Importance of Water Storage Tank Maintenance
Like any other material that is exposed to water and the elements, water storage tanks slowly corrode over time.
There is no stopping it; however, with competent water storage tank maintenance, rates of deterioration can be greatly slowed.
Providing this attention involves regular inspections and prompt attention to whatever maintenance needs are required to address problems before or as they develop to stay one step ahead of corrosion.
Storage tank engineers dedicated to the design of these vessels point out that there are three main reasons why keeping up with tank maintenance is so important:
- Longer Tank and Equipment Service Life - Early detection and addressing of tank and equipment issues keeps things running smoothly and promotes a full service life for both.
- Reduced Costs for Repair and Replacement - Addressing corrosion when it is minor is much more cost-efficient than letting it go to the point of becoming a major repair. By providing maintenance services that prolong tank life, facilities will buy fewer replacement tanks over the decades.
- Better Water Quality - Well-maintained tanks are less likely to allow or contribute to water contamination.
Inspection and Maintenance Requirements
To keep up with tank maintenance, regular inspections are necessary as this is the only way to properly observe tanks and understand any arising concerns.
Although water storage tank engineers recommend inspections every one, three, or five years depending on the tank and the operation, they must be inspected yearly to meet American Water Works Association or AWWA requirements.
To pass AWWA requirements, the tank must be sealed and functioning correctly so that it qualifies as a sealed, confined container.
Beyond the water storage tank maintenance requirements made by the tank manufacturer, other needs can be determined after tank inspections and assessments.
Additionally, tank cleanings should happen whenever repairs or modifications are made to the tank or equipment, when there is a reduction of water quality, or when contamination of the tank or sediment in the bottom is discovered.
Inspection Categories That Determine Maintenance Needs
There are two basic categories of inspections used by water tank maintenance services and inspectors to assess these tanks: wet and dry.
- Wet inspections including those performed using remote cameras and divers can be easier but may not always be as definitive.
- Dry inspections performed after draining and drying the tank are the most detailed but involve taking the tank offline and emptying it.
All tanks should have at least periodic dry inspections.
Repairs and recoating with corrosion inhibitors must be done after draining the tank as well.
Water Storage Tanks Need Qualified Tank Services
Water storage tanks are huge investments in local infrastructure.
Keeping them functioning correctly involves regular inspections and water tank maintenance to slow the inevitable corrosion that happens whenever equipment is exposed to water and other liquids.
They should be inspected and maintained according to industry standards and the recommendations made by the tank engineers that design and study them.
Partnering with a qualified water storage tank maintenance service, facility owners can ensure their tanks are assessed regularly and receive the best care!
