
How to protect your water storage tank
To protect the life of your water storage tank, you must ensure that it is put on a flat surface.
Having a water storage tank is a necessity in most homes. The size of your tank mainly depends on estimated use of water. The 5 best plastic water storage tank sizes range from 1,000 litres to 10,000 litres.
Water storage tanks are normally placed in one of the following 5 position:
Directly on the floor
Pros :
This is the cheapest option if the floor is level and with a good foundation. There is easy access to the tank for maintenance.
Cons :
The weight of water in the tank can damage the ground. This may lead to cracks at the base of the tank. A water overflow will certainly mess up the compound.
You will have to install a water pump to help build pressure when supplying water into a storey building. The tank is also exposed to risk of damage due to easy assess.
On a concrete slab
Pros :
This placement is highly recommended for tanks of all sizes and shapes. Tanks on flat concrete platforms are easily accessible. If constructed properly can extend the life of the tank.
Therefore making it a relatively cheaper option. Besides, the tank is easy to access for maintenance whilst out of direct reach for vandalism.
Cons :
It sometimes requires a pump to overcome pressure flow challenges. In addition, this option may not be suitable if space is an issue.
On a fabricated steel stand
Pros :
This is suitable for water tanks below 5000 litres capacity due to the weight. The pressure flow of water to the house is very good because of the height of the tank.
This reduces the need to install a water pump. When well designed the stand can serve as additional beautification of the house.
In a situation where space is limited to erect a concrete slab, this option can act as a space saver
Cons :
It is expensive to erect especially if the right galvanised steel pipes are used. Wooden planks are normally placed on the steel to act as a base. Over time, water may leak onto the planks causing them to crack.
The tank is exposed to direct contact with the steel pipes which may cause leaks. Sometimes it is very difficult to access the tanks to clean or repair.
The height of the platform may expose the water tank to harsh weather conditions.
However, a protective cover can be erected to alleviate this problem.
Do not place the water storage tank directly on the steel bars. The weight of the tank on the steel pipes will cause the tank to crack over time. You must always place a flat board under the tank for protection from damage.
On the roof of the building
Pros :
The height is excellent for pressure flow into the building. If predesigned when the building was built, this can act a clever space saver. The tank is also protected from acts of vandalism especially the removal of tank covers.
Safe from the reach of children(people) throwing objects or playing with the tank.
Cons :
Usually not easy to access to clean or repair a damage. If not planned well, the building may be at risk from damage caused by water leaks from the tank. It can be difficult to replace a tank positioned on a roof
In an underground enclosure
Pros :
A good option if space is a premium. The tank is out of sight and the pipes ae hidden from direct sunlight.
Cons :
Difficult to access to clean or replace. It is more difficult to notice when there is a problem until it is too late.
In conclusion, its important to consider the following factors to protect your water tank. From the cost of erecting a platform; available space; vandalism; use of pumps and access for maintenance.
At FF Cleaning services we offer free advice to our clients to ensure you get a good return on your water tank investment
