3 tips for keeping stored water clean

Storing water, either rain water or bulk filtered water, is a great way to maximise scarce resources. With Australia suffering from frequent droughts, and with many remote communities not having access to regular water supplies, this takes on a new level of importance.

However, water is only as hygienic as the container it is kept in, with contaminated water a real risk to the well being of those who drink it. However, with a little forethought, these risks are easy to manage. To help, here are three tips for managing your water tanks.

Understand the risks

The first step towards keeping your water tank hygienic is to understand what risks come from your usage. If you are collecting rainwater, there are a different set of challenges compared to if you are simply storing water from a reputable source.

A good rule of thumb is that all water will need treating before it is safe for human consumption, with prevention the best cure for water-borne illnesses.

Get the right material

If you are looking to install a new water tank, it is important you get the right material for your needs. Metal tanks may rust or suffer from weaknesses in their joinery, making them a potential source of water contamination. On the other hand, plastic water tanks will survive in Australia's tough climate without rusting or corroding, making them ideal for storing water for long periods of time.

Inspect regularly

Even the safest water storage solution will need inspection regularly to ensure any contamination hasn't occurred by accident or as a result of human error. 

Regular inspection will also let you keep on top of any issues which arise around your pipes and any filters or other equipment used in your water tank. Keeping on top of these maintenance issues is vital for ensuring your water tank continues to supply safe and clean water throughout its lifetime.