How to Troubleshoot Plastic Water Tank Cleaning Issues at Home

Quick answer (read this first)

• Inspect the tank for lingering sludge, debris, or algae post-cleaning.
• Thoroughly re-rinse the tank to remove all cleaning agent residues.
• Examine inlet and outlet pipes for any blockages affecting water flow.
• Check your water pump for proper function if water pressure is low or inconsistent.

Safety first

• Always disconnect power to the water pump before any work.
• Wear protective gloves and a mask, especially when using cleaning agents.
• Ensure good ventilation when working inside or near the tank.
• Avoid mixing different cleaning chemicals, which can produce dangerous fumes.
• Do not enter a large tank without proper safety gear and assistance.

Tools you may need

• Bucket
• Stiff brush or scrubber
• Gloves and mask
• Torchlight
• Garden hose
• Mild detergent or tank-safe cleaning solution

Step-by-step

Step 1

Completely Drain the Tank: Turn off the main water supply to the tank and open all house taps to fully drain the water.

Step 2

Conduct a Thorough Internal Inspection: Use a torchlight to visually check for any lingering dirt, sludge, algae, or sediment on tank walls and bottom after initial cleaning.

Step 3

Re-scrub and Spot Clean: If residue remains, re-scrub affected areas vigorously with a stiff brush and a small quantity of mild, tank-safe cleaning agent.

Step 4

Perform Multiple Flushes and Rinses: Fill the tank halfway with fresh water, scrub again, then drain completely. Repeat this process several times to ensure all cleaning agents and dislodged debris are gone.

Step 5

Inspect Inlet and Outlet Pipes for Blockages: Check both the inlet and outlet pipes for any visible obstructions or debris that might be hindering water flow. Clear any blockages found.

Step 6

Monitor Refilled Water Quality: After refilling the tank, run water through various taps for several minutes. Check for any unusual smell, taste, or discoloration.

Step 7

Assess Water Pump Operation: If low water flow or pressure persists, verify that your water pump is functioning correctly and is not clogged, air-locked, or faulty.

Common mistakes

• Not fully draining the tank before inspection or re-cleaning.
• Using harsh or inappropriate chemicals that can damage the tank or contaminate the water.
• Insufficient rinsing, leaving behind cleaning agent residue that affects water quality.
• Neglecting to check the tank’s inlet and outlet pipes for blockages.
• Failing to disconnect the water pump’s power supply before commencing work.

When to call a professional

• If persistent foul smell, taste, or discoloration remains in the water despite your efforts.
• You discover major cracks, leaks, or structural damage to the tank that you cannot repair.
• There are significant blockages in the piping system that you are unable to clear.
• You suspect an issue with the water pump or any related electrical components.
• You are unsure about any step of the process or if the tank is too large/complex to handle safely.