Nothing, least of all a water storage tank, lasts forever. While regular tank cleaning and maintenance can help extend the life of your unit, it will eventually start acting up, whether due to age or usage strain. Yes, even the best stainless-steel water tank has an expiration date. The problem is that most of us are unaware of when a unit is about to expire. So, in this article, we’ll go over three indicators that it’s time to replace your tank.
1. It is too old.
Water storage tanks have a typical lifespan of 25 to 30 years. However, if your unit is nearing the end of its useful life, it is probably time to replace it. While a tank can last for more than twenty years, the need to replace one may arise before or after this time frame. So, whether or not a unit begins to show signs of aging, you should replace it after two decades from the date of manufacture.
2. It becomes rusty.
Even though steel is the strongest material on the planet, it has a drawback. When corrosion takes hold of your stainless-steel water tank, it spreads slowly and eats away at the unit. When this happens, be extra cautious because rust serves as a warning sign of impending leaks. Rusting is unavoidable in water containers that have passed their expiration date. If the water from your faucet is consistently rusty, there is a problem with the tank. This would imply that the unit needs to be replaced.
3. It is leaking.
As your polyester water tank nears the end of its useful life, there is a greater chance that you will notice puddles on the floor around the unit. This indicates a leak in the tank. If there is leaking in the pipes and connections, there could be a problem with the tank fittings. In this case, all you need to do is call a plumber to inspect the problem. If the fittings and pipes show no signs of leaks, the tank is unquestionably at fault. If water is leaking directly from the unit, you should seriously consider replacing it. A leak could cause significant property damage depending on where you installed the tank.
Water storage tanks collect and store water from your well until you are ready to use it in your home. They are available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and configurations. They offer numerous advantages, including on-demand water, which eliminates the need to wait for the water to travel from your well or through a filtration system if your tank is equipped with one. They also help to extend the life of your good pump because it doesn’t have to turn on and off all the time.
Determining the Life Expectancy of Your Tank
Although modern water storage tanks have a longer lifespan than older tanks due to the materials used in their construction, all tanks will require regular tank inspections, maintenance, and eventually replacement.
Storage tanks are available in a variety of materials, and it is critical to identify the conditions under which they will be installed to determine which is the best option. However, if properly maintained, any of these options should last between 20 and 25 years before needing to be replaced. Some of the more common materials used in storage tanks are:
- Fiberglass
- Polyethylene
- Steel/Galvanized steel
- Lined and unlined
The environment in which the tank will be installed is just as important as the type of tank. Water temperature and corrosiveness, as well as weather conditions, can all have an impact on the longevity of your tank. For example, if your region experiences cold or freezing weather on a yearly basis, it is critical that the tank be properly insulated or buried to avoid freeze/thaw complications that can shorten the tank’s life. Keeping these factors in mind will allow you to extend the life of your tank.
Installation and Maintenance
Proper installation of your water storage tank is critical to ensuring proper operation and avoiding the need for excessive maintenance and repairs. Hiring professionals like American Tanks will ensure that your tank is installed correctly and with the proper parts. Once the tank is in use, it should be inspected and maintained on a regular basis to ensure that it continues to function efficiently and that preventative measures can be taken if signs of wear are observed.
Signs of Wear
Speaking of wear, there are a few telltale signs that your tank needs service or is nearing the end of its life. These indicators include the following:
- Rust
- Leaks
- Pressure loss or unstable water pressure
- Excessive air in your plumbing systems
- Pump cycling
Failure to inspect your tank on a regular basis and take corrective action to repair any of these issues may necessitate the tank being replaced sooner.
At American Tanks, we have the knowledge and experience to find the best storage tank solution for you. We can handle any job, from selecting the right water storage tank and ensuring proper installation to performing regular inspections and maintenance. Contact us today to speak with a member of our team.
To discuss any of the concepts described here in more detail, our friendly and experienced customer service team can help. We offer tried and tested services around Houston, Texas and Longbeach, California.
Call American Tanks at +1 800 656 0167
Or email at info@amtanks.com