Rainwater Harvesting is an effective way of providing a sustainable water supply, reducing localised flood risk, and contributing towards savings on Scope 3 carbon emissions. Like any mechanical or electrical system, Rainwater Harvesting Systems perform best when they are maintained properly. Regular planned preventative maintenance can ensure a safe, sustainable water supply and prolong system life span.

As part of the maintenance regime, rainwater harvesting systems are recommended to receive a full tank clean every 2-3 years. Rainwater Harvesting Tank Cleaning not only ensures high levels of water quality is being achieved for facility users, but also prevents blockages which could damage filtration devices and pumps.

Having been in the industry for 20 years, we have experienced all sorts of items enter tanks associated with the rainwater harvesting system! From bricks, right through to full shopping trollies which were discarded in storage tanks during the construction phase, we have seen it all! A common occurrence that we come across is high levels of sediment build up on the base of the main storage tank. If this sediment is not removed, water quality can be impacted and may be visible to facility users. Sediment enters the tank via roof drainage points and is often too fine to be caught in pre-tank filters.

 rainwater harvesting tank clean
What is the best approach to Rainwater Harvesting Tank Cleaning?
  • Purchasing the right rainwater harvesting system. Rainwater harvesting systems should be easily accessible for effective maintenance – make sure the system you are choosing is able to be maintained properly! Cheaper system suppliers may not have the knowledge to consider post-commissioning aftercare. Stormsaver rainwater harvesting systems are designed for long-term use and to minimise levels of sediment entering the tank.
  • Physically entering the tank. It is important that any rainwater harvesting tank cleaning involves an operative physically entering the tank to remove larger debris rather than solely relying on a gully sucker.
  • Use a rainwater harvesting specialists. Tank Cleaning Operatives who are well versed in the critical internal tank components of a rainwater harvesting system will have the necessary knowledge to not disturb these components. Any rainwater harvesting tank clean should also include header tanks too! Regular tank cleaning providers may not have this knowledge.

Stormsaver can offer all this through our tank cleaning service.

When is a Rainwater Harvesting Tank Clean recommended?

Rainwater harvesting tank cleaning is recommended in the following situations;

  • As part of regular maintenance. It is recommended that a rainwater harvesting system should receive a full tank clean every 2-3 years. Although, this is depended on the surrounding environment. Areas of intense avian activity or heavily forested areas may demand more frequent tank cleaning.
  • As part of the system commissioning. Construction debris can enter the tank and it is important that this is removed prior to switching the system on.
  • Incorrect installation. Rainwater harvesting systems which have been installed incorrectly may require a tank clean once any remedial works have been completed.
Here to help

We hope you found our Rainwater Harvesting Tank Cleaning Guide useful. Should you have any questions about our tank cleaning services or our rainwater harvesting systems, please feel free to contact us.

Written by Matt
Water Reuse Specialist

My role as a Water Reuse Specialist means I get to keep up to date with all things water conservation. My favourite water saving tip is to turn taps off when brushing your teeth! I think rainwater harvesting and the water reuse industry is exciting, and I love sharing updates with our customers. View Matt’s Stormsaver profile here.

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Constructionline Gold Member CHAS Accredited UK Rainwater Harvesting Association Member Safecontractor Approved Waterwise Affiliate UK Business Awards Winner 2022