The Earth may appear to have an abundance of water, yet only around three percent of the water on the planet is freshwater. Only 1.2 percent of that can be used as drinking water, while the rest is locked up in glaciers, ice caps, and permafrost or buried deep in the ground.
Without water, it would be impossible to sustain human civilization. In the United States alone, people consumes 327 billion gallons of surface water every day. Can you imagine adding up the entire planet’s daily water usage?
Aren’t you wondering how it is possible to store large quantities of clean, freshwater? We can all thank water storage tanks for that! A leak-free and functional storage tank is crucial for any water storage facility. And so, it is important to conduct routine checks to ensure the tank remains in good condition, and storage tank bottom inspection is one of the most important steps in this process.
Why are Water Tank Inspections and Maintenance Important?
Having a regular inspection schedule for water tanks, similar to other assets, helps reduce long-term maintenance and replacement costs. Most common tank materials, if not properly maintained, will eventually deteriorate due to issues like corrosion, cracking, and rusting.
According to the American Water Works Association (AWWA), potable water storage towers should be inspected every three to five years. Additionally, many tank manufacturers require regular inspections as a condition of their warranties. Beyond just the tank itself, frequent inspections of potable water storage systems are crucial to ensure the continued cleanliness of the water supply. Over time, sediment may settle at the bottom of tanks, but as long as it remains in small amounts, it won’t impact water quality or the stability of the tank.
The Key Benefits of Proper Tank Bottom Inspections
Conducting proper tank bottom inspections is crucial for identifying potential issues early on. Aside from that, here are the key benefits of carrying out thorough tank bottom inspections:
Early Leak Detection
Regular inspections help quickly identify leaks from the bottom of the water tank, allowing for timely repairs before they lead to further damage or contamination of the water supply.
Preserving Structural Integrity
Inspections ensure that the tank remains in good condition, free from corrosion or deterioration, which could compromise its structural stability.
Protection Against Water Contamination
Inspections can uncover any accumulated impurities or pollutants at the bottom of the tank, safeguarding the water quality and preventing health risks to users.
Cost Savings
Detecting issues early through inspections can prevent expensive repairs down the line and extend the tank’s lifespan.
Regulatory Compliance
In many areas, regular tank inspections are required by law to ensure the safety and purity of the water supply.
For the continued safety and quality of water stored in tanks, regular bottom inspections are essential. Investing in this preventive measure ensures a safer and more reliable water supply.
Checklist for Conducting Bottom Tank Inspections
- Examine the outside of the tank. Examine the tank’s exterior for evidence of corrosion, cracks, or other deterioration. Carefully inspect the seams, joints, and connections.
- Check the tank’s supports. Ensure that the tank is adequately supported and there are no indications of settling or shifting.
- Examine the tank’s roof. Examine the roof for any signs of damage or leaks, and ensure it is secure and in good condition.
- Evaluate the interior of the tank. Look for evidence of corrosion, silt buildup, and other pollutants. Check for the water tank leaking at the bottom and ensure no fractures or further damage in the tank’s walls.
- Check the inlets and exits of the tank. Verify that they are operating properly and that there are no leaks or evidence of corrosion.
- Examine the tank’s ventilation system. Check for adequate ventilation to prevent the accumulation of harmful gases.
- Evaluate the access points to the tank. Ensure that they are secure and in good shape and that maintenance and inspections can be performed with ease.
- Review the water level in the tank. Verify that the water level is stable and that there are no indications of leaks or changes.
- Check the tank’s water quality. Take a water sample for testing and analysis to confirm that it fulfills regulatory quality and safety criteria.
- Document findings: Following the inspection, you should document any findings and any required repairs or maintenance.
By adhering to this thorough storage tank bottom inspection checklist, you can verify that your tank is in good shape and that its water is safe and high quality.
Get the Proper Tank Inspection You Need!
As storage containers age, we evaluate potable water tanks, chemical tanks, fuel tanks, and bulk dry goods tanks based on regularly observed problems. All commercial storage tanks are required by state law to be examined annually by a licensed specialist.Whether your freshly installed Raven American Tanks unit is ready for its first tank inspection or you’re concerned about your 20-year-old outside concrete setup, we can complete a thorough examination and report on it!
Call us at +1 800 656 0167.
