Installing a water storage tank correctly is essential for ensuring its longevity, safety and best possible performance.
Making these five common mistakes during installation can lead to structural problems, leaks or premature tank failure.
It’s important to avoid making these mistakes whether you’re a homeowner installing a small tank for watering the garden or a contractor overseeing a big project.
So, what are the top five mistakes?
An oversized tank
In many situations, it makes sense to buy bigger than you think you will need. And there are often savings to be made by buying bigger. But when it comes to water storage tanks, bigger isn’t better. It is important to install the right size tank.
An oversized tank can lead to water stagnation due to insufficient water being used quickly enough. Stagnant water can become a breeding ground for bacteria, causing health risks, including Legionella. Before you install a water tank, take time to work out the water consumption of your business or home and choose the right size of tank for your needs.
Incorrect base installation
A level base is essential for the structural integrity of a water storage tank. Uneven foundations can cause stress on the tank walls, which can lead to cracks and leaks over time.
It’s important that you choose the right materials for your base too. The base should be constructed from water-resistant, durable material, which can withstand the weight of the full tank. Don’t forget that soil settles over time and ground conditions change throughout the year, due to heavy rain, prolonged dry periods or extreme cold.
Inadequate access
Proper access to the water tank is essential for inspections, cleaning and maintenance. Installing it too close to a wall will make future maintenance access difficult.
Making access difficult is likely to lead to essential maintenance being missed, with the increased potential for damage to the tank, reduced longevity or stagnant, unsafe water.
Faulty seals and connections
Seals and connections will usually be the weak point of a water storage tank. So it is essential that all threaded fittings have proper sealants, connections aren’t over-tightened and pipe connections are properly aligned, to avoid them becoming stress points.
Improper bolt tightening
Bolts which aren’t adequately tightened during installation can loosen over time, leading to leaks and structural instability. They can also loosen during transport and installation. It's essential to follow manufacturer specifications for bolt torque (tightness) when installing the tank and to recheck tightness once it has settled in place and is full of water.
Avoiding these five common mistakes during installation of a water storage tank can help ensure its safety and longevity for many years to come.
