The cost of using water from a dirty water storage tank can have huge ramifications.

From loss of revenue to long term illness and in extreme cases, death.

We have put together some of the reasons why water storage tanks are left neglected over the years.

1. Not knowing how to wash the tank.

You may not know how to clean your water storage tanks.  This can be due to any of the following reasons:

• The position of the tank – the tank may be elevated on a high platform placed or on the roof.
• The size of the tank – Access can be a problem if it is a small tank as well as if it is a big tank.
• Working in a confined space can be very dangerous especially if you are claustrophobic
• In case there is a plumbing issue whilst attempting to clean the tank

2. The tank is out of sight.

A lot of times, storage tanks are placed on the roof of buildings or hidden away at the back of your building.  Unless there is a plumbing issue, a leak  or a water shortage, most of you do not go near your water storage tanks.

Sometimes, the tank can be left for many years without anyone checking on its current state.

3. You think it will be expensive to wash.

There is a misconception that it will cost a lot to get a professional to come and clean your tank.  The cost to clean and purify a tank can be very cheap considering the benefits.  The cost of hospital bills, revenue lost from missing work is incomparable to the price of washing your water storage tanks.

4. It has not harmed me yet

A lot of you tend to have the “if it is not broken, don’t fix it” mentality.  We frequently hear people say they have used the tank for so long and they have not fallen sick.  The effects of using water from a dirty water tank can be quite hazardous to your long-term health.

5. You do not drink from it

Water has a way of getting through your system whether you drink it directly or not.  From having a shower, to cooking with it.  For instance, something as simple as making ice cubes or washing the plates can allow you to intake dirty water.

6. No government enforcement

Unfortunately, the government is not particularly involved in enforcing households and businesses to wash their water storage tanks.  It will take a major disease outbreak for this to happen.  However, it is important for the government to carry our campaigns to educate the general public of the value of clean water tanks