How To Maintain Your Rainwater Tank

October 19, 2015 - 2 min read

A rainwater tank is vital in many areas of Australia. It’s great for the environment too. But how do you keep your water from becoming contaminated, discoloured or tasting funny? We’ve found the easiest ways you can help ensure your drinking water stays crystal clear. Read on to learn how… How To Help Prevent Contaminated Tank Water Netting […]

A rainwater tank is vital in many areas of Australia. It’s great for the environment too. But how do you keep your water from becoming contaminated, discoloured or tasting funny? We’ve found the easiest ways you can help ensure your drinking water stays crystal clear. Read on to learn how…


How To Help Prevent Contaminated Tank Water


Netting Over All Inlets, Outlets, Vents & Holes

Tank netting

Many potentially harmful things can end up in your rainwater tank—from leaves, insects, and mosquitoes, to wildlife such as possums, bats and birds. The only thing you want in your tank is water.

Install fine netting over all holes and drains leading to the tank to help prevent any unwanted visitors and debris from entering your water supply.


Gutters

Drains

Leaves finding their way into your rainwater tank lead to water discolouration and contamination. Keeping your gutters clean helps to avoid this problem. Drain guards are a great way to minimise the amount of leaves and debris that enter via your gutters.


Roof Material

Roof Material

Water runs down your roof, into your gutters and into your tank. If your roof has any dangerous chemicals (including paint and cleaning products) on it, rainy weather can wash them into your water tank.

To help stop potentially toxic chemicals entering your water supply, make sure only safe materials are used on your roof.


Tank Cover

Lid

Your rainwater tank should come with a secure lid at the time of purchase. This helps to stop animals enjoying a drink from your personal water supply. Leaving shallow dishes of water in your yard will give wildlife an easier option than entering your tank.


First Flush Device

A first flush device installed on each pipe entering your water tank helps to ensure that debris entering with the first flow of water, doesn’t enter the water tank.

A water tank professional can install these for you.


Quarterly Maintenance Checks For Your Rainwater Tank

  • Clean your gutters
  • Prune overhead trees
  • Check & replace netting to all vents
  • Inspect your tank for mosquitoes, dead animals, contamination & algae
  • Examine all indoor pipes for rust to help keep your water clear

If your looking for rainwater tanks and accessories, including vent netting, lids and first flush devices, check out these Northern Rivers tank sales and installation professionals.


Not in the Northern Rivers? Find a tank sales and installation specialist near you on LocalSearch.


If you’ve enjoyed our tips for maintaining your rainwater tank, check out our other helpful articles, including: