Rainwater tanks are an excellent way of conserving water and relieving pressure on both the water supply and the stormwater drainage system. In order to keep them working at their best, there are a few maintenance tasks that you will have to carry out regularly.
Clean the gutters
Blocked gutters will prevent the rainwater from entering your tank in the first place and will direct it instead to your property walls and base where it can cause problems. Gutters can also attract muck and even faecal matter from birds and small animals. In order to stop this from entering your rainwater tank, you will need to clean your gutters every few months. You also need to consider installing gutter mesh, which will keep debris and wildlife from your gutters.
Check the mesh
It is best to install mesh in your tank to stop mosquitoes and other pests from taking up residence. The mesh can easily become damaged, allowing unwanted visitors into your water tank. Check the mesh every few months to make sure there is no risk of disease from insects.
Test the water quality
To some extent, this depends on the purpose of the rainwater. If you use it for irrigation or flushing toilets, then its quality will not be so important. If you use it for drinking, then you will need to test its quality twice a year. You also need to take action immediately if you notice it has become discoloured or has an unusual odour.
Check the pipes and pumps
It is worth checking the whole system every six months or so to make sure the pumps are working and that there are no leaks. Leaking pipes waste water, while pumps that have stopped working will vastly reduce the efficiency of the system. You can check if the pump is working very easily by flushing your toilet and listening to the noise it makes.
Remove the sediment
This is best done by hiring a professional contractor. Sludge will build up at the bottom of the tank over time which is very unpleasant and can be a health hazard. Removing it every two to three years will make sure that your water is kept clean.
With a small amount of maintenance, your rainwater tank will supply you with clean and safe water, helping to conserve this vital natural resource and keep your water bills to a minimum.