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Water tanks can be used in many different commercial and domestic circumstances, and there are many different water tanks available. You might be looking for a rainwater harvesting system, a below-ground water tank, or a baffled water tank, for example. When you are considering buying a water tank, one of the most important factors that you should be thinking about is how long it will last for.
For some people, getting a water tank is an investment that they are hoping will last them for years. For others, a shorter-term fix is what is needed. Whatever your specific circumstances, it is useful to know how long your tank of choice is likely to last.
Before you decide which tank you want to get, it is important to remember that all water tanks should be non-biodegradable and if used for human consumption they should be manufactured from WRAS approved polymer, often these tanks are referred to as potable water tanks. There are three main factors that affect the durability of a water tank – the materials that it is made from, where it is placed, and what you are using it for.
Materials
Tanks are usually made from either plastic or metal. Plastic water tanks are usually less expensive than their metal counterpart and require less maintenance.
Plastic water tanks are non-biodegradable and usually manufactured from UV stabilised polymer to prevent cracking or UV deterioration. The fact that it is non-biodegradable means that it shouldn’t break down over time, at the end of life polymer tanks can be recycled by specialist waste disposal/recycling companies. A polymer plastic water tank should last over 10 years and up to about 20 years if you get a good quality model.
Metal water tanks are usually made from steel and are strong and durable. Once the steel tank is no longer fit for purpose as a tank, the metal can also be melted down and recycled. The life expectancy of a steel tank is over 30 years.
Location
The place where your tank is located is another factor in its durability. If you have a metal tank, you need to consider the fact that rust could be an issue. This means that you should try and avoid saltwater and wind – especially if you live near to the sea. It is recommended that if you live near the sea and have a metal tank you add a sheeting to the outside of the tank or apply a treatment to help to protect it.
You should also think about where you are placing your water tank. Standing water can damage it, and you should try to ensure that it is on a solid floor.
The life of the UV treatment on plastic tanks can also be reduced if it is exposed to long hours of direct sunlight, especially in arid areas.
Tank Use
Water tanks are used for many different things, but the rule of thumb when it comes to tank use is that the cleaner, purer the water, the longer it will last. For obvious reasons, a metal tank filled with salt water is at a much higher risk of corrosion and damage than if it were to be filled with fresh water.
It is recommended that if you have a metal tank that you will be using for drinking water, you put a liner in it. This will both protect the tank, but also protect the water from any oxidised zinc or steel getting in. If you have a polymer plastic water tank suitable for potable water, this lining is not necessary as it is already made from a food-safe material.
How to Prolong the Duration of Your Water Tank
In addition to ensuring that your tank is located in the right place and being used correctly, the other main thing that you can do to give your tank durability is to ensure that it is well looked after and maintained. This means keeping it clean, protecting it from extreme weather, and repairing any damage quickly and effectively.
