Omar Khalid
Water storage tanks require regular maintenance to ensure that the water inside stays clean and safe for use. The process of cleaning a plastic stock tank involves draining the tank, cleaning the interior walls, and disinfecting the tank. This helps to remove any accumulated bacteria, algae, silt, or chemical residue that may have built up over time. The frequency of cleaning depends on the amount of accumulation, but it is generally recommended to clean water tanks at least once or twice a year. Proper maintenance not only ensures water quality but also helps to extend the lifespan of the tank and prevent structural damage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Frequency of cleaning | Once a year, or more if there is a lot of algae, silt, or slime |
| Inspection | Routinely inspect the interior for sediment or microbial growth |
| Colour of tank | Dark-coloured tanks help inhibit algae growth by blocking sunlight |
| Cleaning equipment | Brush with a long handle, non-steel brush bristles or sponges, power washer |
| Draining the tank | Open the outlet valve or tap at the bottom of the tank, use a hose to direct water away from the tank |
| Removing remaining water | Use a bucket, plastic cup, or a wet/dry vacuum |
| Bleach solution | 1/3 cup of bleach per 3 gallons of water (500ppm bleach solution) |
| Letting the solution sit | 2 hours or more |
| Rinsing the tank | Rinse thoroughly to remove bleach, which is toxic |
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What You'll Learn
How to identify when a plastic stock tank needs cleaning
It is important to keep a record of your plastic stock tank cleaning schedule and maintenance. This will help you identify any patterns or potential issues that may arise. Here are some signs that indicate when a plastic stock tank needs cleaning:
- Taste or odour: If the water in the tank develops an unusual taste or odour, it may be a sign of spoilage or contamination.
- Water quality: If a water quality test returns positive for E. coli or total coliform bacteria, it is definitely time to clean and disinfect the tank.
- Visual inspection: If you notice unacceptable algal growth or biofilm (scum) on the interior walls of the tank, it is time for a clean. White or translucent tanks are especially vulnerable to contamination when placed outside, as they receive more direct sunlight, becoming a spawning ground for bacteria and algae.
- Location: The location of your tank can also determine how often it needs to be cleaned. Tanks in warmer or tropical locations will need to be cleaned more frequently than those in cooler environments. Tanks in direct sunlight should be cleaned two to three times a year.
- Colour: If the water in your tank has a green tint or any hint of green, something is not right. The water should be a pale blue colour and crystal clear.
If you notice any of these signs, it's time to roll up your sleeves and give your plastic stock tank a good clean!
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Using bleach to sanitise a plastic stock tank
To sanitise a plastic stock tank using bleach, you must first empty the tank. Open the outlet valve or tap at the bottom of the tank and let all the water flow out. Connect a hose to direct the water away from vegetation, lakes, or other areas that could be damaged by chlorine bleach. You may need to use a bucket, a wet/dry vacuum, or towels to remove remaining water.
Next, prepare a bleach solution. The amount of bleach required will depend on the size of your tank. For example, to make approximately 9 gallons of bleach solution, mix 9 gallons of water with 1 cup of bleach. Alternatively, to make a 500ppm bleach solution, use 1/3 cup of bleach per 3 gallons of water. You can also follow the protocol for emergency disinfection of drinking water, which is 1 teaspoon of bleach per 7 gallons of water (or 4 drops per quart for smaller containers).
Once you have prepared your bleach solution, flush the tank with it. You can also use this solution to clean your water supply lines by running the taps with the bleach solution. Let the solution sit for at least 2 hours to kill any bacteria or microbes.
After the bleach has done its job, thoroughly rinse the tank with potable drinking water. Rinse until all soap or bleach bubbles are gone. If you ran the bleach solution through your water pipes, be sure to run the taps with hot water.
Finally, refill the tank with potable drinking water. Your tank is now clean, sanitised, and ready to use!
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The importance of rinsing a plastic stock tank after sanitising
Rinsing a plastic stock tank after sanitising is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, bleach, which is commonly used for sanitising, is toxic and should not be consumed. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly rinse the tank with potable drinking water after sanitising to ensure no bleach residue remains. Inadequate rinsing can lead to a residual chlorine taste and smell in the water, making it unpleasant for consumption.
The importance of rinsing also lies in maintaining the integrity of the tank and its components. Prolonged or frequent exposure to bleach can corrode metal parts over time, as bleach is a strong oxidiser that can cause rust on stainless steel and other metal components. Additionally, the chlorine in bleach can degrade rubber or plastic elements, such as seals and gaskets, leading to potential damage and costly repairs or replacements.
Rinsing the tank after sanitising helps eliminate any lingering bleach odour, which can be unpleasant and persist for an extended period. It is recommended to rinse the tank until all soap or bleach bubbles are gone and, if necessary, to refill the tank partially with potable drinking water for an additional rinse. This process ensures that all traces of bleach are removed, making the water safe for consumption and reducing the risk of ingesting even small amounts of bleach.
Furthermore, rinsing the tank after sanitising contributes to the overall effectiveness of the cleaning process. By removing any remaining cleaning agents or residue, the rinsing step ensures that the tank is prepared for refilling with clean water. This process helps maintain the purity and safety of the water, preventing any unpleasant tastes or odours caused by bacteria, algae, or other contaminants.
Lastly, rinsing the tank after sanitising can be a preventive measure against potential health risks. Incomplete rinsing may result in the ingestion of small amounts of bleach or other cleaning agents, which could be harmful. By thoroughly rinsing the tank, you minimise the chances of exposing yourself or others to any potential health hazards associated with the cleaning chemicals. Therefore, it is imperative to follow the rinsing step diligently to safeguard the well-being of those who will be consuming the water from the tank.
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How to scrub the interior of a plastic stock tank
To scrub the interior of a plastic stock tank, you will first need to drain the tank of any water. Open the outlet valve or tap at the bottom of the tank and let the water flow out. You may need to use a bucket to scoop out any water remaining at the bottom of the tank. Once the water level is too shallow to scoop, use a plastic cup or mug to remove as much as possible.
Next, you will need to remove any remaining water. You can do this by using a wet/dry vacuum to suck up the water, or, if your tank is small enough, tipping it up to pour out the water. You can then use towels to soak up any remaining water.
Now that the tank is empty, you can begin scrubbing the interior. Depending on the size of your tank, you may need a brush with a long handle to reach the bottom. Avoid brushes with steel bristles or sponges made of steel, as these can scratch the plastic. Use a non-abrasive cleaner and gently scrub the walls and bottom of the tank. You can also use a power washer, either by itself or in conjunction with scrubbing.
After scrubbing, you will need to rinse the tank to remove any leftover cleaner and debris. Even if the water appears clean, microscopic chemical residues may still be present, so be sure to rinse thoroughly. If needed, repeat the scrubbing and rinsing process until the tank is thoroughly clean.
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How to prevent future contamination of a plastic stock tank
To prevent future contamination of a plastic stock tank, it is important to practice proper and regular maintenance. Here are some detailed steps to ensure your tank remains clean and safe:
Regular Cleaning and Disinfection:
Water storage tanks should be cleaned and disinfected regularly, with most sources recommending at least once or twice a year. However, the cleaning frequency may vary depending on factors such as the design of the tank, its location, the amount of use, and environmental changes. Routinely inspect the interior of your tank for any sediment, algae, or microbial growth that could indicate contamination. White or translucent tanks placed outside are more susceptible to contamination due to increased direct sunlight, promoting bacteria and algae growth. Therefore, it is crucial to inspect these tanks more frequently.
Use the Right Cleaning Equipment:
When cleaning your plastic stock tank, ensure you have the appropriate equipment. Avoid brushes with steel bristles or steel sponges as they can scratch and damage the plastic. Instead, opt for non-abrasive cleaning tools and scrub gently. If you need to reach the bottom of the tank, consider using a long-handled brush, moving it up and down vertically for better maneuverability. You can also use a power washer, either alone or in combination with scrubbing, to effectively remove tough sediment and residue.
Choose the Right Disinfectant:
To disinfect your plastic stock tank effectively, you can use household chlorine bleach containing 5-6% sodium hypochlorite. Scented and splash-less varieties are not suitable for disinfection. Alternatively, you can use liquid sodium hypochlorite (chlorine bleach), which is affordable, effective, and readily available. For a 500ppm bleach solution, mix one cup of bleach with nine gallons of water. Flush the tank with this solution for about five minutes, then rinse with a 10ppm bleach solution (one teaspoon of bleach per ten gallons of water).
Properly Seal and Screen the Tank:
Ensure your plastic stock tank is properly sealed to prevent contamination. Screening the tank is also essential to avoid mosquito breeding, which can introduce new contaminants. Additionally, consider using a dark-colored tank, as it helps inhibit algae growth by blocking sunlight.
Maintain Water Quality:
Regularly cleaning your plastic stock tank will help maintain water quality and ensure it remains suitable for its intended use. Always follow proper procedures for draining, cleaning, and disinfecting the tank to prevent bacteria, algae, and silt accumulation. Additionally, if you suspect contamination, obtain an alternative source of drinking water until you can clean and disinfect your tank thoroughly.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that plastic stock tanks are sanitized at least once a year, however, this may vary depending on the amount of algae, silt, or slime that has accumulated inside the tank. Some tanks may require more frequent cleaning, with some sources recommending tanks are cleaned twice a year.
First, empty all the water from the tank by opening the outlet valve or tap at the bottom of the tank. You may need to use a bucket or a wet/dry vacuum to remove any remaining water. Next, create a bleach solution to disinfect the tank. The amount of bleach used will depend on the size of your tank, but a ratio of 1 cup of bleach to 9 gallons of water is recommended. Let the solution sit for at least 2 hours to kill any bacteria or microbes. Finally, thoroughly rinse the tank to remove any leftover bleach.
It is recommended to use unscented chlorine bleach containing 5-6% sodium hypochlorite. Scented bleach is not intended for disinfection.
Regular maintenance is key to preventing contamination. Keep an eye out for any sediment, algae, or microbial growth and routinely inspect the interior of the tank. White or translucent tanks are more vulnerable to contamination when placed outside, so consider using a dark-colored tank to help inhibit algae growth.
