Algae can quietly build up inside your water tank without much warning. It often starts as a faint greenish film and, if left too long, turns into a thick layer that clings to the walls and settles on the bottom. Algae loves warm, damp spots with plenty of light, so tanks that aren’t sealed properly or cleaned often can become the perfect place for it to grow. While it might seem like a minor problem at first, algae doesn’t just make the tank look dirty, it can affect water quality and put extra strain on the whole system.
A clean tank helps make sure your water stays fresh and safe to use, whether it’s for drinking, washing, or irrigation. Removing algae as soon as it appears helps avoid bigger issues later down the line. You’ll also save on time and hassle by not having to deal with blockages, smells, or damage from a neglected tank environment.
Understanding Algae Buildup
Algae thrive in still water, especially when there’s sunlight and organic matter involved. Even a small crack in the lid or a loose cover can let light in, giving algae the green light to spread. Algae spores can enter your tank from rain, dust, or debris, and once they’re in, they don’t need much to multiply. Frequent temperature changes, uneven water flow, and poor filtering can all feed the problem too.
There are a few common signs that algae might be growing inside your tank:
– Water starts to appear green or cloudy
– Slimy walls or green patches on the inside of the tank
– A musty or earthy smell, especially when water hasn’t been used for a while
– Sediment or coloured film sitting on the water’s surface or tank floor
– Unusual clogs in filters or pipes connected to the tank
One rural property owner noticed that their clean-looking tank had started to smell a bit off after a few hot days. On inspection, a layer of algae had started growing in the corners where the sun hit the tank during the afternoon. The water, once clear, had gone slightly green. That’s how quickly it can start and a good reminder to check older tanks more often.
Steps To Effectively Remove Algae
Getting rid of algae starts with proper preparation. You’ll want to be thorough from start to finish to avoid repeated regrowth. Here’s a breakdown of how to clear out the algae without harming the tank material or your water supply.
1. Shut off the water supply
Before doing anything, disconnect the tank from pumps or outlets. This keeps algae from spreading through the system during cleaning.
2. Empty the tank
Drain the tank fully until there’s no standing water left. That gives you clear access to both the base and wall surfaces.
3. Clean the interior
Use non-toxic, tank-safe cleaning products designed for algae removal. Soft brushes or sponges work best. Avoid hard metal tools that can scratch linings or surfaces. Scrub every spot where algae is visible, including corners and seams.
4. Rinse thoroughly
After scrubbing, rinse the tank out completely two or three times. Algae can cling in tight spaces, so flushing a few times helps remove hidden fragments that could grow back.
5. Address possible entry points
Check lids, vents, overflow paths and joins while the tank is empty. Seal any areas where light or debris might be sneaking in.
6. Take steps to prevent future buildup
Once cleaned and rinsed, consider adding protective measures:
– UV filters or light-blocking lid covers
– Regular cleaning intervals, even before algae shows
– Keeping leaves, branches, and dust off the tank’s surroundings
By clearing out existing growth and blocking future conditions algae love, your tank stands a much better chance of staying clean long-term.
Importance Of Professional Water Tank Cleaning Services
While basic cleaning helps get rid of visible algae, doing a full, deep clean properly takes more than just a scrub and rinse. If you’re dealing with areas you can’t physically reach or tanks with complex lining or fittings, the job becomes even trickier. That’s where specialised water tank cleaning services come in handy.
Professionals don’t just clean what’s easy to access. They use purpose-built tools and equipment that can flush out tough areas, including sediment that’s settled deep in corners or algae growth hiding behind fixtures. High-pressure washers, non-toxic chemical treatments, and inspection tools like scuba cameras are often used to spot and remove issues throughout the tank without causing damage.
Another advantage is safety. Working in confined spaces, especially inside larger tanks, carries real risk. Cleaning companies handle jobs of all sizes with the right safety steps in place. From protective gear through to ventilation tools, they’re prepared for things most people wouldn’t think of.
Cleaning crews are also good at spotting potential problems before they get worse. That strange green patch forming in your overflow outlet? A pro won’t just rinse it off. They’ll flag it as a recurring issue that might need sealing or cover repair. Having those eyes on the tank from time to time ends up saving money, time, and countless buckets of frustration.
Ensuring Long-Term Tank Health
Once algae has been dealt with, the real goal is keeping it out for good. That comes down to regular maintenance and a few practical changes. Instead of waiting for buildup to reappear, it’s smarter to get into the habit of checking things consistently.
Here are a few ways to keep your tank in good shape and reduce the risk of algae returning:
– Set a schedule for regular tank inspections, even if the water looks clean
– Watch for any changes in odour or colour, these can be early signs of regrowth
– Keep the tank covered securely to block light from getting in
– Avoid placing the tank where water may puddle around it, as that can lead to damp issues
– Clean gutters and leaf screens often to avoid organic matter entering the system
– Every few months, flush out a small amount of water to keep it circulating
A property owner who decided to flush their tank every quarter saw a big improvement in water clarity. They also added a filter at the inlet, which helped limit the organic material feeding algae. Sometimes, small steps like that pay off more than expected.
Seasonal weather changes can influence your water conditions. Warmer months, especially in late spring and early summer, are when algae tend to grow faster. Planning your tank maintenance efforts around that cycle helps stay ahead of it.
Keep Your Water Tank Algae-Free With ATM Tanks
Clean water should never be taken for granted, whether it’s stored on a farm, at a remote site, or for domestic use. Keeping algae out of your tank isn’t a one-time task. It takes the right knowledge, the right tools, and regular follow-through.
If you’re dealing with stubborn growth, or want to make sure your tank stays clean well into the future, professional support can really make a difference. Our experienced crew at ATM Tanks is ready to help you take care of whatever build-up you’re facing.
To learn more about our water tank cleaning services or to book an inspection, visit our website. We’re here to keep your storage systems clear, safe, and stress-free.
To maintain your tank’s cleanliness and keep your water supply safe long-term, it’s worth relying on professional support that goes beyond a basic rinse. Learn how ATM Tanks can help with reliable water tank cleaning services that tackle algae growth and keep your system running smoothly.
- Enhancing Tank Durability with High-Quality Liners - November 30, 2025
- Repairing Tank Cracks Before They Escalate - November 30, 2025
- Top Issues Found During Industrial Tank Cleaning - November 30, 2025
