7 Expert Tips to Extend the Life of Your Water Tank

Water tanks are the unsung heroes of many commercial and industrial facilities. Whether they’re supplying drinking water, domestic down services, manufacturing processes, or fire protection systems, their reliability is essential. But like any asset, they degrade without proper attention.

For facilities managers, implementing a few straightforward practices can significantly extend the lifespan of a tank - and help avoid the cost and disruption of premature replacement.

Here’s how to make sure yours goes the distance.

1. Regularly Inspect for Wear and Tear

Routine inspections are your first line of defence. Make them part of your maintenance plan - ideally quarterly or bi-annually depending on usage and local conditions. Look for:

• Signs of rust or corrosion

• Cracks in the structure

• Water staining or pooling around the base

• Failing seals or gaskets

• Loose or leaking valves and pipework

Even small visual changes can point to larger issues beneath the surface. Tackling them early prevents bigger problems later.

Inspection Tips

• Keep a logbook to track issues and work done

• Use torches and mirrors to inspect dark or narrow access areas

  
  

2. Stick to a Professional Cleaning Schedule

No matter how clean the incoming water is, tanks accumulate sediment, sludge and sometimes biofilms. These build-ups reduce capacity, encourage corrosion, and pose risks to water hygiene.

On average, most tanks need to be professionally cleaned once every 12 - 18 months, but if your facility stores potable water or supports vulnerable users, more frequent cleaning may be required.

Cleaning Process

• Drain the tank completely

• Mechanically or manually remove sludge, sediment and scale

• Disinfect all surfaces with approved agents and wash down

• Refill, disinfect and recommission the system

This is an abridged methodology of what is a technically complex process, that should always be carried out by trained professionals.

For drinking water storage, refer to your site’s Legionella Risk Assessment to ensure your cleaning schedule aligns with your legal responsibilities.

3. Monitor Water Quality Proactively

Bad water shortens tank life. Even marginal changes in pH or chemical composition can accelerate corrosion or lead to contamination.

If you are concerned about water quality, then consider testing for:

• Microorganisms (especially Legionella and coliforms)

• pH balance

• Chlorine levels

Best Practice

Partner with a water hygiene specialist to establish a sampling plan. This not only extends tank life but keeps you compliant with regulations.

4. Guard Against Corrosion

Corrosion is the number one reason steel tanks fail early. But there are proven ways to delay it:

• Apply appropriate protective coatings

• Carry our spot repairs whenever corrosion is detected to avoid the problem getting worse.

• Avoid stagnant water which can create differential aeration

• Maintain a regular cleaning schedule

Make corrosion checks part of your annual inspection. If a coating is showing signs of blistering or wear, address it immediately. Take a look at this case study to see what corrosion can do to a water tank if left unchecked... Steel Water Tank Reline | Leak Repair | Titan Mechanical

5. Insulate Tanks and Pipework

Insulation isn't just about preventing freezing - although that’s certainly crucial in the UK climate.

It also:

• Reduces temperature swings that cause material stress

• Lowers risk of condensation and bacterial growth

• Limits thermal gain in the summer months

Ensure insulation is properly sealed and intact, particularly after third-party work in plant rooms or loft spaces.

6. Manage Your Water Usage Smartly

Efficient water usage reduces the frequency of filling and draining cycles, minimises stagnation risk, and cuts down wear on valves and float switches.

Steps you can take:

• Install low-flow fixtures where appropriate

• Monitor for leaks using smart metering

• Educate building users about water-saving habits

If your system includes automated flushing, verify that it’s working as intended and not wasting water or triggering unnecessary tank refills.

7. Schedule Annual Maintenance with a Professional

DIY checks are essential, but they can’t replace the detail and assurance that comes with a professional service.

Annual maintenance should include:

• Full internal inspection

• Structural review

• Component replacements (valves, floats, lids, overflow screens)

• Written reporting and recommendations

It also gives you documentation - useful for audits and demonstrating compliance with standards such as ACoP L8 and HSG274.

In Summary

With the right care, water tanks can last 10, 20, or even 30 years. The key is not waiting for problems to arise. Facilities managers who act proactively will not only get the best return on their infrastructure investment but also protect the people who depend on that system every day.

Want to take your water system maintenance to the next level? Visit our Learning Centre for expert guidance, checklists, and regulatory advice tailored to facilities like yours.