
Essential Guide to Safely Cleaning Your Water Tank Liners Without Bleach
Maintaining the integrity of your water tank liner is crucial for ensuring a safe and long-lasting water storage system. Using inappropriate cleaning agents, such as bleach, can damage certain liner materials. Below are recommended cleaning methods tailored to specific liner types, emphasizing the use of SolutionsHOCl® Cistern & Catchment Bomb—a powerful cleaner utilizing hypochlorous acid (HOCl). Please note that this product is not yet EPA or FDA certified.
1. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Liners
- Why Avoid Bleach? Bleach can oxidize and degrade EPDM rubber, leading to brittleness and leaks.
- Recommended Cleaning Method:
- Product: Use SolutionsHOCl® Cistern & Catchment Bomb.
- Application: Dilute the product as per instructions and apply it to the interior surfaces of the tank. Allow it to sit for the recommended time to effectively neutralize contaminants.
- Rinse: Thoroughly rinse with clean water to remove any residual cleaner.
2. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Liners
- Why Avoid Bleach? Bleach can cause hardening and cracking of PVC over time.
- Recommended Cleaning Method:
- Product: Utilize SolutionsHOCl® Cistern & Catchment Bomb.
- Application: Prepare a diluted solution and gently scrub the liner with a soft brush or cloth to remove biofilm and deposits.
- Rinse: Ensure all cleaning residues are rinsed away with fresh water.
3. Polyethylene (LDPE & HDPE) Liners
- Why Avoid Bleach? Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) can degrade with bleach exposure, while high-density polyethylene (HDPE) may resist but is not immune to damage.
- Recommended Cleaning Method:
- Product: Opt for SolutionsHOCL® Cistern & Catchment Bomb.
- Application: Apply the diluted solution to the liner, allowing it to address organic contaminants effectively.
- Rinse: Flush the tank with clean water to remove any remaining cleaner.

4. Polypropylene (PP) Liners
- Why Avoid Bleach? Bleach can lead to discoloration and embrittlement of polypropylene.
- Recommended Cleaning Method:
- Product: Employ SolutionsHOCl® Cistern & Catchment Bomb.
- Application: Use the product as directed to clean the liner, ensuring it reaches all areas to eliminate microbial growth.
- Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with potable water to ensure no cleaner remains.
5. Butyl Rubber Liners
- Why Avoid Bleach? Similar to EPDM, bleach can deteriorate butyl rubber, compromising its flexibility and integrity.
- Recommended Cleaning Method:
- Product: Choose SolutionsHOCl® Cistern & Catchment Bomb.
- Application: Apply the diluted cleaner to the liner surface, allowing adequate contact time to break down contaminants.
- Rinse: Completely rinse the tank with clean water to remove any cleaner residue.
6. Fiberglass (Gel-Coated) Liners
- Why Avoid Bleach? Bleach can erode the gel coating, leading to absorption of chemicals and structural degradation.
- Recommended Cleaning Method:
- Product: Apply SolutionsHOCl® Cistern & Catchment Bomb.
- Application: Use the product to clean the liner, focusing on areas with visible staining or biofilm.
- Rinse: After cleaning, rinse the tank thoroughly to ensure all residues are removed.
Note: While SolutionsHOCl® Cistern & Catchment Bomb is designed for effective cleaning, always ensure thorough rinsing after use to maintain water quality. Regular maintenance and appropriate cleaning practices will extend the lifespan of your tank liner and ensure the safety of your stored water.
For more information on SolutionsHOCl® Cistern & Catchment Bomb, visit their official website: www.SolutionsHOCL.com