Water is a renewable resource. However, a storage solution is essential to ensure a reliable supply of drinking water. An important aspect of this need is hygiene. Considering the potential diseases like Cholera and Typhoid that spread through drinking water it is all the more essential to ensure safe storage solutions.
WHO holds that the storage of drinking water in household containers or tanks can significantly affect water quality. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) alarmed with the increased risks of drinking water contamination provides guidelines for the safe storage of drinking water. They stress on the relevance of using clean and food-grade containers, regularly cleaning and disinfecting storage tanks, and protecting stored water from contaminating sources.
Here are some useful insights on the topic.
Drinking Water in Storage Tanks: Potential Safety Risks
-
Microbial Contamination
Unhygienic Water storage tanks can facilitate a conducive environment for insects, algae, or biofilm formations in tank walls.
-
Chemical Contaminants
Tanks made of certain materials such as lead or treated with chemicals can result in leeching or deterioration leading to the introduction of toxic substances into drinking water.
-
Sediment Build-up
:Sediment or rust formations are usual in water storage tanks. This can facilitate bacterial growth which in turn affects water quality.
-
Temperature Control
In the absence of an insulation mechanism in water tanks upon exposure to extreme heat it promotes microbial growth or changes in the chemical composition of stored water.
According to GRP water tank manufacturers in UAE, these safety risks are a growing concern to storing water in tanks. Fortunately, some precautions and measures can reverse this situation thereby resulting in better quality of drinking water in storage tanks.
Precautions for Water Quality in Tanks
-
Tank Selection
Lead or Asbestos are materials that may leach harmful substances into water. Avoid these materials and choose tanks made of food-grade materials that are approved for storing drinking water. High-density polyethylene and tanks made of composite materials like Glass Reinforced Plastics (GRP) are recommended alternatives. Since they don’t corrode or leach that easily, contaminants such as toxic substances and microbial formations can be eliminated.
-
Proper Installation
It is not recommended to install water tanks in areas vulnerable to extreme heat. This can make the tanks vulnerable to microfilm contamination. However, water tank manufacturers in UAE offer a safe alternative suitable for such high-risk conditions.
Another safety protocol to ensure water safety in tanks is to install them away from sewage lines, chemical storage areas, and areas prone to flooding. This will ensure contamination-free water storage.
-
Regular Inspection
Routine visual inspection will help take appropriate action for sediment build-up or pest infestations to contain the contamination of drinking water.
-
Cleaning and Disinfection
Remove sediments, biofilms, or any other contaminants with regular cleaning and disinfection of the storage tanks. Flushing the tanks with chlorine solutions and thorough rinsing are recommended solutions. Consulting a water tank manufacturer in UAE can help use appropriate cleaning agents.
To sum up, storage tanks pose significant risks to water quality through microbial contamination, leeching of chemicals from building materials, and sediment and rust formations. Temperature is another factor that influences drinking water quality in storage tanks. A solution starts with the choice of right tank material and proper installation practices. Moreover, it has to be followed by timely interventions for inspection and regular cleaning.
The downside is that most property owners may not have time to regularly monitor their water tanks. Here is where the significance of minimum maintenance solutions like GRP water tanks comes into the spotlight. At Polycom, we strive consistently to offer safe drinking water solutions with innovative materials and state-of-the-art technologies. Reach out to us to know more about the latest innovations in the store. As the leading GRP water tank manufacturers in UAE, we care for the safety of our valued consumers.