Water Storage Tank Cleaning

Anytime you are storing water, a major concern for many customers is how to keep the water clean during storage. Depending on how long you are looking to store this water, this can include a variety of methods including tank colors, added solutions, and sanitizing.

Tank Exteriors

During water storage, growth of water borne algae can be problem, especially if your tank is being stored in an outdoor location. To handle the problem of outdoor storage or storage of tanks in areas particularly prone to light exposure, the first option to consider is using a tank with a darker exterior.

This method is often seen during the storage of water in plastic tanks. Since these tanks are commonly made from a poly material such as polyethylene, they are simply replaced with a black or dark green polyethylene alternative. This gives the tank the same FDA approval, while also blocking light from entering the tank and causing growth.

Tank Interiors

As a general standard, you should always make sure that the container you use to store your water is food-grade and approved for the storage of potable water. Containers of this type will usually include an FDA approval for the storage of drinking water and other food grade materials. In some cases, drinking water storage tanks will also contain an NSF 61 approval. NSF International in an independent organization committed to the public safety and storage of drinking water materials.

Long Term Water Storage

If you are planning on using a tank for long-term drinking water storage, it is often advised that some type of softener or water preserver be placed within the tank. These solutions can be found in various camping, RV or general and online stores and include elements that help to kill bacteria and mold to keep your water clean.

Most long term water storage preservers are designed to help you successfully store water for up to five years (5 years).

Sanitizing and Cleaning your Tank

Tanks can also be cleaned and washed out using a chlorine sanitizing solution. It is typically recommended that your chlorine solution is not more than 5%. More information on cleaning and caring for your tank can be found on the How to Clean a Water Tank page.

Water Storage Tank Options

A water storage tank can come in many different styles, fabrics and configurations. Choosing the best tank for your application can depend on multiple factors including your storage location, the liquid you need to store, the amount of water you need to store, and available storage space.

View Water Storage Tank Options

Flexible Water Storage Solutions

As the need to safely store water increases, many people are looking for alternate or flexible ways to contain, store, and reuse water. While popular choices tend to include the plastic (polyethylene tank) or the fiberglass storage unit, there is a growing demand for tanks that offer increased flexibility and mobility around a location. This has led many of our customers to ask, is there a flexible water storage solution?

The Collapsible Pillow Tank

One of the most flexible water storage solutions available on the market today is the Collapsible Tank. Known by many different names, this tank has been called the collapsible tank, bladder tank, pillow tank, flexible tank and even a water blivet. Regardless of its name, these tanks have provided many with increased flexibility and storage ability.

What is a Pillow Tank?

As its name suggests, a pillow tank is a tank that features a design similar to that of a pillow. When empty, this tank will lie completely flat and can even be folded up for easy transportation. As it is filled with water, its sides will slowly rise until a pillow shape is formed. These tanks typically feature a low profile for storage in tight spaces or locations. 

The pillow tank is constructed from multiple fabric materials depending on the liquid you need to store. It is most commonly built with polyurethane, polymer alloy or E PVC coated materials. 

Advantages

The advantages of the collapsible tank are numerous and can include:

• Reduced Shipping Costs (can be folded or rolled up)
• Wide Storage Capacities (1 to 250,000 gallons)
• Low Profile (fits under decks and in basements)
• Economical
• Easy Setup (folded for faster transportation)
• Flexible Exterior (can fit in existing old or leaking cisterns)

So whether you are looking for rain water collection, drinking water storage, or non drinking water storage for utilities, this tank is a flexible way to get the storage you need.