Over time, all water tanks gather a bit of muck. Even with clean water flowing in, bits of dirt, sand, leaves and rust can still make their way inside. Once these bits settle at the bottom, they start building up as a layer of sediment. While it might seem harmless at first, that layer can grow and start causing serious issues down the line.
A tank full of sediment doesn’t just hold less water. It can mess with pipes, clog filters and affect the quality of your water. If your taps are running slower than usual, or the water looks cloudy, there’s a decent chance your tank needs a proper clean. Getting on top of sediment before it gets out of hand makes all the difference and it saves you from bigger problems like corrosion or damage to your system.
Understanding Sediment Buildup
Sediment buildup is more common than most people think. It doesn’t happen because your tank is faulty or your water’s bad, it just builds up little by little. Each time water flows into the tank, small particles can settle. With no outlet at the bottom, those particles just stay put.
Most water tanks that collect from rain, bore water or even mains supply will deal with some amount of sediment. Common particles include:
– Dirt and dust from roofs or catchment areas
– Sand and grit, especially in tanks fed by boreholes
– Rust flakes from old metal pipes or fittings
– Mineral deposits, like calcium or iron
– Organic matter like leaves, twigs or insect remains
You might not see the sediment at first, especially if it’s settled fully at the bottom. But there are a few signs that suggest it’s time to look closer. Water slow to drain from the tank, a change in taste or smell, or gritty residue in taps are clues sediment is building up underneath the surface. Staining around filters and dark patches near the outlet tap are also indicators that something might be collecting inside.
For example, a property owner noticed their pressure pump was struggling more than usual. Turns out, a thick layer of mud and rust had collected near the outlet, choking up the water flow. Once it was cleared, pressure returned to normal, and so did the water quality.
Preventive Measures to Keep Sediment in Check
Keeping sediment out of your water tank isn’t always possible, but there’s plenty you can do to slow it down. Prevention means fewer cleans, fewer repairs, and better water every time you turn on the tap.
Here are a few ways to stay ahead of sediment buildup:
1. Install gutter guards and first flush devices
These stop leaves, dust and other large debris from making their way into your system, especially for rain-fed tanks.
2. Add a pre-filter near the water inlet
A basic mesh or cartridge filter can trap sand, dirt and grit before it gets into the tank.
3. Clean roof and catchment areas often
The cleaner your catchment area, the less dirt ends up flowing into your tank with each rainfall.
4. Schedule regular inspections
Don’t wait for water quality to drop. Periodic checks for sludge or grit can help you decide when a clean is needed.
5. Test water quality every few months
Changes in colour, smell or taste can happen even if the tank looks clean. Testing helps confirm what’s going on.
By following these simple steps and setting up a basic routine, your tank won’t just stay cleaner, it will last longer too. Any buildup that starts won’t have time to grow into something that clogs your pipes or damages fittings. Better filters and smarter catchment care mean easier maintenance down the line.
Cleaning Techniques That Work
Cleaning out sediment from a water tank needs more than a rinse. Leftover muck, if not fully cleared, can quickly cause new problems. That means a proper clean takes the right tools, the right steps, and the right timing.
Start by shutting off the inlet and outlet valves. This keeps fresh water from flowing in while you work and stops dirty water escaping into your pipes. Next, drain the tank completely. You’ll want to remove as much water as possible so you can safely access any sediment at the base. If your tank has no proper drainage outlet, this part can be tricky and often best handled by someone with experience.
Once emptied, use non-metallic tools to loosen the sediment. A plastic scoop or soft broom works well for agitating the layer of dirt without scratching the lining or inner surface. A wet vacuum can then suck up the loosened debris. If the tank is large or awkwardly shaped, it often takes specialised equipment to reach corners or deeper spots, especially without damaging the tank lining.
While cleaning, keep in mind that entering confined spaces can be risky. There may be poor ventilation and possible exposure to mould or bacteria. It’s why proper safety gear is a must and why a trained crew is usually the safer choice when tanks haven’t been cleaned in years. Skipping full protective gear isn’t worth the risk.
After the sediment is cleared, flush the tank with clean water to remove fine residue. Then dry out the space before refilling. If any unusual smells or stains remain, it’s worth checking for damage or hidden growth before going back into service.
When to Call In the Pros
There comes a point when professional help isn’t just better, it’s necessary. Large tanks, deep sediment layers, or poor access points can make DIY cleaning not only messy but dangerous. If there are signs of contamination or if the tank hasn’t been serviced in a long time, leave it to someone who knows how to do it right.
It’s also helpful when you’re unsure where the problem is coming from. For instance, if your tank is still showing pressure or water colour issues even after flushing the pipework, the sediment might be packed inside in ways you can’t easily reach. A professional tank technician can assess hard-to-spot areas and check the tank’s internal condition, especially around discharge zones and seams.
Some clear signs your tank needs outside attention include:
– More than one filter clogging up in a short time
– Smell coming from taps or hoses, even after flushing
– Visible chunks or sludge in tank access points
– Recent floods or runoff entering the tank
– Health concerns with the water source
Professionals can also identify if sediment is just the surface issue or a sign of deeper wear or corrosion. Mechanical equipment like submersible vacuums, pressure cleaners or camera inspections might be used to get full results without damaging the tank’s structure.
Keeping Your Tank Sediment-Free for Longer
Once your tank is properly cleaned, the goal is to keep things clear for the future. Sediment will always try to return, but with a few low-effort habits, you can stop it from piling up as fast.
Stick to a maintenance schedule. A simple inspection every quarter can help you catch sediment before it builds up, and it gives you a chance to check filters and outlets. If your tank is exposed to heavy rainfall or nearby dust, bump that up during wetter months.
Keep tops and access hatches sealed. Loose lids or broken seals allow in insects and airborne dust, which accelerates the rate of buildup. Make sure connections stay tight and surfaces intact, especially during dry windy seasons when more debris floats into catchment areas.
If your property collects roof water, sweep gutters clear before storms hit. A clogged drain or leaf-filled downpipe does more than overflow, it sends debris straight to your tank. Installing a simple leaf diverter can shave off plenty of buildup long before it reaches the inlet.
The main thing is to treat sediment prevention as part of regular property maintenance. It’s no different to checking taps for leaks or cleaning out your gutters. Stay consistent and you’ll avoid the headaches that come with blocked systems, dirty water or equipment failure. Small steps now save big jobs later.
Consistency is key to ensuring your water tank remains sediment-free. By making tank care part of your regular routine and promptly addressing any issues, you can extend the life of your system. When it’s time for a thorough clean or if you’re noticing signs of trouble, professional help can make all the difference. Learn more about expert assistance with tank cleaning and discover how ATM Tanks can help maintain the quality of your water supply, keeping your system in peak condition.
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