Tanks are built to last, but that doesn’t mean they’re free from issues. Over time, wear and tear can creep in, especially when tanks are exposed to changing weather, chemicals or consistent use without routine checks. Spotting the early signs of trouble can help avoid bigger, costlier problems down the line.
Knowing what to look for can save a lot of time, money and stress. Whether the tank is used for water, chemicals or fuel, keeping it in good shape means paying attention to small changes. This guide points out five warning signs that usually show up when a tank needs repair. Catching these early helps keep everything running safely and smoothly.
Leaks and Moisture
Leaks are one of the most obvious and often most ignored signs that something is wrong. They might start small, like a damp patch near the base of the tank or a slow drip that quickly disappears. But those little clues shouldn’t be brushed off. That bit of moisture could mean cracks in the structure, worn-out fittings or failed seals.
Here’s what to watch out for:
– Water stains or puddles forming around the tank
– Damp or spongy areas on nearby ground or concrete
– Mould or algae creeping along the tank base or walls
Mould can start forming when excess water sticks around. If there is mould showing up on the outside, it often means humidity and leaks are coming from inside the tank, even if you can’t see it. Left untreated, these signs can lead to rust, corrosion and weakened tank foundations or wall panels.
In closed tanks, moisture build-up might not be visible straight away. A musty smell can be an early clue that condensation is forming inside, especially if the tank has water sitting in it for extended periods. Even changes in how hard or easy it is to open access panels can suggest swelling from water trapped under internal linings.
If any of these signs are showing up, even in small ways, it’s time to get things looked at before the damage spreads.
Unusual Noises
Tanks aren’t known for being loud, so when strange sounds start coming from them, something is definitely off. These noises usually kick in when a mechanical fault is starting to form or when internal components are under stress. Spotting noise changes early can stop larger issues before they build up.
Sounds to listen for include:
– Banging or clanking when the tank fills or drains
– Hissing or gurgling, especially near valves or pipe connections
– Dripping noises with no visible leaks
A banging noise might happen if sediment or debris has built up and affects the water flow. That can cause parts to vibrate or knock against each other. Hissing might point to pressure problems, such as air leaks or failing valves. High-pressure tanks, in particular, should be completely silent during operation. Gurgling and trickling sounds can indicate air pockets or restrictions that slow the system down.
One example is an industrial tank that suddenly made loud clanking noises during filling. At first, it just seemed strange, but within a few days, flow slowed right down. A quick inspection showed a faulty valve and cracked inlet, which could have led to uncontrolled leakage if left alone.
So if your tank starts sounding like something is rattling inside, it is probably not just age. It is a sign of something coming loose, breaking down or about to fail.
Drop in Water Quality
When the water coming out of the tank looks or smells different, it might be pointing to a hidden issue. Poor water quality can come from internal corrosion, a damaged lining or contamination that gets sucked in through cracks or faulty lids. Over time, sediments that aren’t cleaned out properly can also affect the water.
Look for:
– Water that appears cloudy, dirty or discoloured
– Any strange or strong smells coming from taps or outlets
– Taste changes, especially if the tank feeds indoor systems
Even if the tank isn’t used for drinking water, changes like these can cause problems downstream. For example, some systems that rely on pumps or filters can be damaged by sediment, making the whole operation less reliable — all from poor-quality water that started at the tank.
These changes are also good indicators that an inspection might reveal more serious issues, such as inner liner faults or minor cracks that let in outside contaminants. When the water no longer meets its expected quality, the cause often traces back to damage or internal wear that needs to be fixed quickly to avoid bigger problems later.
Structural Damage
Sometimes issues with the tank are right in front of your eyes. Structural damage, whether it’s rust patches, surface cracks or dented panels, can signal that the tank is weakening. These signs often show up slowly and are easy to miss unless regular visual checks are part of the routine. But ignoring them could lead to bigger structural failures.
Things to look out for:
– Cracks or deep scratches on the tank body
– Rust forming around joints, bolts or base areas
– Warped or misshapen fittings and access points
Rust doesn’t just look bad. It eats away at metal over time. If left untreated, that rust patch can spread beneath the surface and cause leaks or even a full-blown tank breach down the track. Cracks might seem harmless at first, but once moisture seeps in, internal layers or linings can start to separate. Even something simple like a bent ladder rung or shifted lid could mean that the tank has settled unevenly, putting pressure on one side more than the other.
For example, someone noticed a tiny crease near the base of their chemical storage tank. It didn’t seem like a big deal, but after a heavy storm, the crack widened fast, leading to a partial tank failure. A regular inspection would have caught that issue early and saved the hassle.
Always take a close look during regular maintenance. It is not just about leaks. It is about spotting the small changes that can lead to major problems if left alone.
Decreased Efficiency
Not all tank issues are loud, messy or obvious. Sometimes the first giveaway is how the system performs. A clean and healthy tank should keep things flowing without hiccups. So when the system suddenly feels sluggish, there might be something going wrong inside.
Common signs of decreased efficiency:
– Lower output from pumps or slow water delivery
– Uneven distribution or reduced pressure across outlets
– Unexpected delays when starting or stopping the system
A blocked line or a clogged valve might be the simple cause. But sometimes, it is not just one piece. It could be buildup along the tank lining, hidden cracks changing the internal flow or air getting trapped in the system. These slowdowns do not just cost time. They also cause extra wear on pumps and other equipment trying to do more work than they should.
Seasonal changes might also play a part. Warmer conditions towards the end of December can increase demands on cooling and storage tanks, making smaller problems more noticeable. Take the drop in performance as a signal to check things before they escalate.
Having a reliable output is not just about convenience. It impacts what is downstream, whether it is irrigation, production lines or plumbing systems. So when something feels off, that is usually your first warning.
Keep Your Tank Working Without Surprises
Every tank tells a story when it starts acting up. The trouble is, most signs are easy to ignore or blame on something else. Whether it is a strange noise, a slow drip or water that does not look quite right, each of these signs is your chance to stop a small problem from becoming a big one.
Staying one step ahead starts with knowing what to watch for and taking action when things change. Regular inspections give you a chance to pick up cracks, moisture or mechanical trouble early. If something does not look or feel right, get it checked. Tank repairs do not have to be a major task, but they do need the right skills and tools to be done properly.
When tanks are looked after, they work better, last longer and will not surprise you with sudden breakdowns. Whether your system supports a home, a business or industrial operations, the effort put into maintenance always pays off in peace of mind.
If you’ve started noticing leaks, low pressure or strange sounds coming from your tank, it’s best not to wait. Stay ahead of potential issues by organising prompt tank repairs before small problems turn into costly damage. ATM Tanks is ready to help keep your system safe, reliable and running exactly how it should all year round.
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