Water Tank Maintenance Tips Every NZ Homeowner Should Know

TLDR:

Keeping your water tank clean isn’t complicated—but it’s essential. Regular inspections for leaks, strange smells, or visible damage help you catch issues early. Clear your gutters and downpipes to keep debris out, and use a first flush diverter to stop dirty roof water from entering the tank.

Aim to clean the tank once a year using non-toxic products, and rinse thoroughly. Don’t forget to check your filters and drain standing water between rainfalls to prevent bacteria or mosquitoes. For added safety, a UV filter can give extra peace of mind.

At RainReserve, our tanks make maintenance easy. They’re slim, stackable, BPA-free, and backed by a 10-year warranty—perfect for urban homes and long-term reliability.

5700 Rainwater Tank

Whether you're an owner of a water tank or considering purchasing one, maintaining your tank is crucial for ensuring it functions efficiently and lasts for years to come. Regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your tank but also ensures the water you store remains clean and safe for use. Here are some essential tips to keep your water tank in top condition:

Regular Inspections

Perform regular inspections of your water tank to check for any signs of damage, leaks, or contamination. Look for cracks, rust, or unusual odours coming from the tank. In areas prone to heavy rainfall or storms, it's advisable to inspect your tank after these events to ensure debris hasn't entered the system.

Clean Gutters and Downpipes

Ensure that gutters and downpipes leading to your water tank are clean and free of debris. Blocked gutters can lead to water contamination and reduce the efficiency of your rainwater harvesting system. In regions like Auckland, where leaves and organic matter can quickly accumulate, cleaning gutters at least twice a year is recommended.

First Flush Diverters

Install first flush diverters to ensure that the initial runoff from your roof, which can contain dirt and contaminants, is diverted away from your tank. This simple device can significantly improve the quality of water entering your tank, especially during the first heavy rain after a dry period.

Regular Cleaning Schedule

Set a regular cleaning schedule for your water tank. Ideally, you should clean your tank at least once a year. In urban environments where airborne pollutants are higher, more frequent cleaning may be necessary.

Safe Cleaning Practices

When cleaning your water tank, follow safe practices to avoid contamination:

• Drain the Tank: Completely drain the tank before cleaning to remove any sediment or contaminants at the bottom.

• Use Safe Cleaning Agents: Use non-toxic, environmentally-friendly cleaning agents. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can contaminate the water.

• Scrub and Rinse: Scrub the interior walls and floor of the tank to remove algae, sediment, and other build-ups. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Check and Replace Filters

If your water tank system includes filters, check them regularly and replace them as needed. Filters can become clogged with debris and lose their effectiveness over time.

Manage Standing Water

Use a wet-dry valve or first flush in-ground diverter to drain your pipes between rainfall events. This helps prevent mosquito breeding and reduces the risk of waterborne diseases.

Consider a Safety Net

Use a rainwater filter system after your pump to reduce sediment, colour, and odour. A UV filter can ensure that any harmful bacteria passing through the filters are rendered harmless.

Conclusion

Maintaining your water tank is a straightforward process that requires regular inspections, cleaning, and upkeep. By following these tips, you can ensure your tank remains in optimal condition, providing you with a reliable source of clean water for years to come.

At RainReserve, we understand the importance of quality and reliability in water storage solutions. That's why our tanks are designed with durability and ease of use in mind. Here are just a few reasons why RainReserve tanks stand out:

• 10-Year No-Nonsense Warranty: We back our tanks with a comprehensive warranty, giving you peace of mind for a decade.

• Space-Saving Design: Our slimline tanks are perfect for urban homes, offering one of the slimmest profiles on the market at just 680mm deep.

• Easy Installation: With simple connections to existing downpipes and the option to use our Downpipe Diverters, setting up your tank is quick and hassle-free.

• Stackable for Increased Capacity: Our 625L tanks can be easily stacked to increase storage capacity, making them versatile for any property.

• BPA-Free and Compliant with Industry Standards: All our tanks are made from BPA-free materials and meet AS/NZS 4020 and AS/NZS 2070 standards, ensuring the water you store is safe for use.

Whether you're looking to upgrade your existing setup or invest in your first water tank, RainReserve offers the perfect combination of quality, durability, and ease of use. Looking to upgrade or expand your water storage? Browse our full range of RainReserve water tanks—built tough, compliant with AS/NZS standards, and backed by performance you can trust.

With a little regular attention, your water tank can provide clean, safe water for years. And with RainReserve, you can rest easy knowing your tank is built to last.