How to Perform Water Tanks Cleaning Safely

Water storage tanks, rainwater catchment tanks, and other water systems play a critical role in collecting and storing water from various sources like rainfall and municipal supply. Over time, these systems can accumulate dirt, debris, and other materials that affect water quality. This blog will cover methods of cleaning water tanks using Solutions HOCl, an organic solution for effective tank maintenance.

Why Clean Water Tanks?

Water tanks including reservoir tanks, rain catchment tanks play a pivotal role in collecting and storing the water from different sources such as rainfall as well as from the municipal water supply. Unfortunately, users avoid routine maintenance and cleaning. This, however, leads to an accumulation of dirt and other pollutants that can be detrimental to health. Sediments such as bacteria and algae among other sediments can cause a change in the texture of water resulting into an unpleasant taste or smell. These are some of the reasons that highlight the importance of proper maintenance of the water catchment systems:

• Health and Safety: Dirty water is highly dangerous since it can cause various diseases. Clean water systems are always guaranteed through routine maintenance.
• Improved Water Quality: A clean water tank will go along way in enhancing the taste and smell of water. This improves the overall satisfaction of the users.
• Extended Equipment Life: Slight changes in water storage system do not mean expenses that could be settled through improved management of your water storage system may be incurred.

Understanding Solutions HOCl

Solutions HOCl is a strong disinfectant which is safe because it is produced from hypochlorous acids within the body to help fight pathogens. HOCl is safe for people and the environment and can safely be used in water catchment systems. It's ideal for this purpose as it works against numerous strains of bacteria and viruses. This makes it very useful in the cleaning of water tanks.

Cleaning Methods for Water Tanks

Preparing for cleaning

It is essential to prepare that most necessary tools and materials prove that cleaning equipment is fixed. Such as:

• Solutions HOCl
• Soft bristle brushes or mops
• Buckets for collecting water
• A wet/ dry vacuum (optimal)
• Personal protective equipment (gloves and goggles)

Draining the Tank

Once the water storage tank is installed, do not call the contractor for cleaning the water storage tank, because you would rather do it yourself. The first step in the cleaning process of your water storage tank is to drain it completely.

Here’s how to do it safely:

• Turn off the water supply: Ensure that the tank is not receiving any new water. The tank would consist of a generation of water which will be land filled once the cleaning is done.
• Open outlet valve: Allow all water which may have remained to run out from the tank. If there is a washout valve in the tank make use of it to fully empty the tank.
• Collect and dispose of wastewater: Wastewater should be disposed of as per regulations of the local authorities. This becomes very important especially in instances where you have used cleaning chemicals.

Scrubbing the Interior

After draining, it is time to scrub the interior surfaces of the tank, the next step is scrubbing:

• Use Solutions HOCl: Where I grossly recommend HOCALE; then better apply it via spray prior to scrubbing the tank interior. Allow this solution to remain in the sprayed areas for a few minutes to enable deep penetration and dissolution of grime or biofilm.
• Scrub with a long-handled brush with soft bristiles: Scrubbing requires a long-handle brush to reach all corners and other surfaces. Areas that have a lot of algae or sediment should be given extra attention.
• Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the tank with clean water to remove any residue that might be left after the scrub.

Disinfecting the tank with Solutions HOCl

With a clean scrubbing and a thorough rinse of the tank now it is time to disinfect:

• Prepare a HOCl solution: In a spray bottle, prepare dilute solutions HOCl according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The concentration here generally should be respectable and no lower than 200-500 ppm for disinfection.
• Spray the interior: Spray the entire interior of the tank with HOCl and ensure spraying on all the surface achieves tip soaking. Optimize disinfection by allowing remaining on the surface from at least 15-30 minutes.

This is a very boring part because there are no excessive destructive visons: There are many different types of pumps, so select an appropriate one for your disinfection needs. After the disinfection period, drain the tank for the last time and scrub with water afterwards.

Cleaning Accessories and Equipment

Do now forget all the accessories, which went to the tank:

• Hoses and fittings: In case your water catchment system includes some hoses, then be sure to clear these along with the other fittings which may have become contaminated using a pumping system. Hoses can be disinfected within the HOCl.
• Pumps: In case a pump forms part of your water system, you should systematically allow for a rod pumpless system flush to allow circulation of HOCl in the pump.
• Refill the Tank: Then, after completing all the cleaning and disinfection, you may be able to refill your rainwater catchment tank or reservoir tank with clean, permitted water. While most people refilled the water to the tank for immediate use, the water should be allowed to rest for at least 30 minutes in order to let residual disinfection byproducts off gas.

Benefits of Using Solutions HOCl

• Safe for Humans & Animals: HOCl carries none of the traditional hazards of bleach or other harsh chemicals, hence users do not need to fear using the chemical in drinking water applications.
• Effective Disinfection: The use of HOCI in water decontamination processes will offer safe water supplies as HOCI is vicious to a larger number of pathogens.
• Environmental Protection: HOCl is a natural chemical, hence will never cause any environmental effects as long as it is used according to the directions provided.

How to Ensure Clean Water Tanks are Maintained

• Regular Inspections: Cut back on efforts in the maintenance of your water storage tank by checking it for leakages, wear and tear or contamination regularly. Early detection will help you save time and money as well.
• Scheduled Cleanings: Working with your team, develop a workable timetable, to clean your tanks at least once a year or once in two years, depending on the usage and source of water.
• Monitor Water Quality: Conduct routine water testing using the appropriate water testing equipment to check for contaminants in your water catchment system.

Conclusion

Cleaning your water storage tank is an essential part of maintaining a functional water system. By using Solutions HOCl for cleaning and disinfection, you can ensure that your system stays in good condition without relying on harsh chemicals. Regular maintenance not only improves the quality of the water but also extends the life of your tank and other components. Follow these guidelines to keep your water storage system operating efficiently.