Comprehensive care procedures to maximize tank lifespan and performance
Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring the longevity, safety, and optimal performance of your vertical storage tanks. This comprehensive guide provides detailed inspection schedules, cleaning procedures, and troubleshooting tips for all tank materials and applications.
Every Day
Every Week
Every Month
Every 3 Months
Every Year
Isolate tank from system, drain completely, and ventilate thoroughly. Test atmosphere for safe entry. Gather cleaning equipment and PPE.
Rinse tank with clean water to remove loose debris and residual product. Use high-pressure wash for stubborn deposits.
Apply appropriate cleaning solution based on stored product. For water tanks: chlorine solution (50-200 ppm). For chemical tanks: neutralizing agent as required.
Scrub interior surfaces with soft-bristle brushes. Avoid abrasive materials that could damage tank lining.
Thoroughly rinse with clean water until all cleaning solution is removed. Test rinse water to ensure no residual chemicals.
For potable water tanks, disinfect with chlorine solution. Allow contact time per NSF standards. Flush and test before returning to service.
Check for cracks, bulging, or deformation. Look for UV damage, color fading, or material degradation. Inspect all fittings and connections.
Verify tank remains level and properly supported. Check for settling, erosion, or damage to concrete pad. Ensure drainage is functioning.
When tank is empty, inspect interior walls for damage, contamination, or biofilm growth. Check for sediment buildup or scaling.
Test all valves, gauges, and safety devices. Verify proper operation of level indicators and alarms. Check gaskets and seals for wear.
| Problem | Possible Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Leaking at fittings | • Loose connections • Damaged gaskets • Over-tightening • Thermal expansion |
• Tighten connections to spec • Replace gaskets • Use proper torque values • Install expansion joints |
| Tank bulging/deformation | • Over-pressurization • Blocked vents • Excessive temperature • Wrong specific gravity |
• Check/clean vents • Verify proper venting • Monitor fill rates • Confirm chemical compatibility |
| UV degradation | • Sun exposure • Lack of UV inhibitors • Age of tank • Wrong material selection |
• Apply UV-resistant coating • Install shade structure • Consider tank replacement • Upgrade to UV-stabilized material |
| Algae growth | • Light penetration • Nutrient presence • Inadequate chlorination • Stagnant water |
• Block light entry • Increase chlorine levels • Improve circulation • Regular cleaning schedule |
| Stress cracks | • Impact damage • Thermal stress • Chemical attack • Improper support |
• Repair or replace affected area • Address temperature swings • Verify chemical compatibility • Improve foundation support |
| Odor issues | • Bacterial growth • Chemical reactions • Inadequate venting • Cross-contamination |
• Shock chlorinate • Clean and disinfect • Improve ventilation • Check for backflow |
Maintaining detailed records is essential for warranty compliance, regulatory requirements, and tracking tank performance over time.
Level readings, temperature, visual observations
Detailed findings, photos, corrective actions
Service dates, procedures performed, parts replaced
Annual thickness testing results for steel tanks
Bacteriological and chemical analysis results
Dates, methods, chemicals used, personnel
Get inspection checklists and maintenance logs
📋 Inspection Checklist (PDF) 📝 Maintenance Log Template 🧹 Cleaning Procedures