WATER STORAGE
Potable Water Tanks
Overview
Potable water tanks guarantee access to clean drinking water, particularly in areas where the municipal water supply might be unreliable or inaccessible. These tanks are designed to store and preserve potable water, keeping it safe for human consumption.
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What is the Purpose of a Potable Water Tank?
A potable water tank is designed specifically for storing drinking water. These tanks are essential for ensuring that the water remains safe and free from contaminants. To meet safety standards, they must comply with the WRAS (Water Regulations Advisory Scheme), guaranteeing that the stored water is suitable for human consumption. Learn more about how potable water tanks keep your water safe and how to choose the right one for your needs.
A potable water supply (drinking water) must be ‘wholesome’. The standards are set to be protective of public health and the definition of wholesome includes factors that might affect the look, smell or taste of the water which needs to be safe for human consumption.
A potable water tank, also known as a drinking water tank, can be made of various materials, each with its own advantages and considerations. Common types include concrete tanks, plastic tanks, and stainless steel tanks. Our range of water tanks is constructed from Glass-Reinforced Plastic (GRP) and is Regulation 4(1)a Approved, making it safe for storing drinking water.
What is Potable Water Good For?
The Science Direct journal states that potable water is commonly used for the following purposes:
- Drinking water
- Showers
- Toilets
- Cooking
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Potable Water Tank
Several factors must be considered when selecting a potable water tank. These include capacity requirements and space restrictions. It’s essential to choose a tank that meets the specific needs of the intended application and complies with local regulations.
- Capacity Requirements
Determining the appropriate capacity for your potable water tank is crucial to ensure an adequate supply of clean drinking water. The capacity needed depends on various factors, including the number of people or households served, water usage patterns, and potential emergency scenarios.
Our water tanks range in size from 45 to 16,000 litres for all one-piece tanks, up to 500,000 litres for TIF tanks and up to 2,000,000 litres for our hot press sectional tanks.
Smaller one-piece or two-piece tanks with capacities ranging from 100 to 1,000 gallons may suffice for residential use. At the same time, larger commercial or industrial applications may require tanks with capacities exceeding hundreds of thousands of gallons. Assessing current and future water needs is essential to selecting a tank size that can accommodate fluctuations in demand.
- Space Restrictions
Another critical consideration is the available space for tank installation. Factors such as the tank’s dimensions, clearance requirements, and accessibility for installation and maintenance should also be considered.
Before purchasing potable water tanks, carefully measure the available space and consult a professional to determine the most suitable tank size and configuration for your specific requirements. Where space restrictions apply, the TIF tank is the best storage option to maximise storage capacity. Standard access requirements require a clearance of 500mm around the tank for assembly and maintenance purposes. With the TIF design, these access requirements are reduced.
By carefully assessing capacity requirements and space restrictions, you can choose a potable water tank that meets your needs while optimising space utilisation and ensuring a reliable supply of clean drinking water.
Maintenance Tips for Potable Water Tanks
Regular maintenance is essential to keep potable water tanks in optimal condition. This includes periodic cleaning, inspections for leaks or damage, and prompt repairs as needed. Neglecting maintenance can lead to contamination or structural issues, compromising the quality of the stored water.
Regular cleaning of your water tank according to the Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) L8 helps comply with legal and regulatory duties concerning Legionella. The guide looks at the control measures, risk assessments and, most importantly, the duties and responsibilities of those involved in the supply of water systems. Regular cleaning stops microbial growth within the tank.
Where the tank has been drained for maintenance, it must not be left empty for more than three days. If it is to be left empty for longer than three days, then it is advised that you contact our after sales team for re-fill advice.
How to Clean and Maintain your Potable Water Tank
Drain the tank completely
Ensure all water is thoroughly drained. Use a hose to remove any remaining water at the bottom.Clean the inside of the tank
Use a long-handled brush and a mixture of water and mild detergent to scrub the walls and base of the tank. Pay special attention to corners and hard-to-reach areas.Rinse thoroughly
Rinse the tank with clean water multiple times to remove all soap residues. Ensure no detergent is left behind as it can contaminate the water supply.Disinfect the tank and pipes
Prepare a solution of water and household bleach (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Fill the tank and let it sit for at least 6 hours. Run the solution through all pipes and outlets.Flush and dry
Safely drain the disinfecting solution. Rinse the tank and pipes with clean water until all traces of bleach are gone. Leave the tank open to air dry completely before refilling.
Supplying the Biggest Projects
With vast experience, we have completed various projects across different industries. No project is too big or complicated for us at Tricel. Every project is different, and we have installed GRP sectional water tanks where space was restricted to a minimum and other structural factors were a concern.
Benefits of Potable Water Tanks
Potable water tanks offer several benefits, including ensuring a reliable supply of clean drinking water. They also serve as an emergency water reserve during water shortages and are a cost-effective solution compared to alternative water storage methods.
Potable Water Tanks vs Non-Potable Water Tanks
Potable and non-potable water tanks serve distinct purposes and have specific design considerations to ensure the safety and suitability of the stored water for its intended use.
A potable water tank must meet stringent health and safety standards to stop contamination and ensure the water remains clean and drinkable. These tanks are typically constructed from materials approved for contact with drinking water, such as fibreglass.
Key characteristics of potable water tanks include:
- Materials: Potable water tanks are made from materials that are non-toxic and resistant to corrosion, ensuring the water remains free from harmful contaminants.
- Regulations: Clean water tanks must comply with government regulations and industry standards to maintain water quality and safeguard public health.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance are important to prevent bacterial growth and maintain water quality in water tanks.
Non-Potable Water Tank
A non-potable water tank is used to store water not intended for human consumption, typically called grey water. While grey water tanks do not need to meet the same stringent standards as potable water tanks, they still require proper design and maintenance to avoid contamination and ensure the water remains suitable for its intended use.
Key characteristics of non-potable water tanks include:
- Design: Grey water tanks may be constructed from a wider range of materials than potable water tanks, depending on the specific application and water quality requirements.
- Usage: Grey water tanks are used for purposes other than drinking water, such as industrial processes or fire protection.
- Treatment: Depending on the source of the water and its intended use, non-potable water may require treatment or filtration to remove impurities or contaminants.
Understanding the differences between potable and non-potable water tanks is essential for selecting the appropriate tank for a specific application and ensuring the safety and quality of the stored water.
*download the guide for Alternative Water Systems*
FAQs
What is the lifespan of a potable water tank?
The lifespan of a potable water tank depends on various factors, including the material used, maintenance practices, and environmental conditions. Typically, well-maintained tanks can last for many years.
Can potable water tanks be customised in size?
Yes, potable water tanks can be customised to accommodate specific capacity requirements. At Tricel Lanark, we offer a range of sizes to suit different applications, from small residential tanks to large commercial or industrial installations.
How often should a potable water tank be inspected?
Potable water tanks should be inspected regularly, at least annually, to check for leaks, corrosion, or other damage. Additional inspections may be necessary after extreme weather events or other significant disturbances.
Are there any government regulations regarding potable water tanks?
Yes, government regulations and industry standards govern the design, installation, and operation of potable water tanks to ensure public health and safety. Compliance with these regulations is essential for maintaining water quality and minimising risks.
Can potable water tanks be used for non-drinking water purposes?
While potable water tanks are primarily designed for storing clean drinking water, they can also be used for non-drinking water applications, such as firefighting or industrial processes. However, proper precautions must be taken to prevent contamination or cross-connections.
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Tanks available for all capacities, 43 litres to 4,651,290 litres. Larger tanks available on request
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