All drinking water is regularly maintained and cleaned, the same applies to water tanks and systems. If you own a water tank, then you probably already know that they require a certain amount of upkeep to ensure that the tank is operating at the optimal level and the water you are getting from it is of high quality.
Over time, sediment from leaves, dust, debris, and ash can build up on the bottom of tanks and begin to decompose into a sludge substance. Sludge build-ups can result in bacteria spreading in the water supply, which if consumed can cause serious health issues. You can also get tank cleaning via https://www.apluswater.co.nz/water-tank-cleaning-service.
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It is recommended you clean your tank at the end of summer when water levels are at their lowest. Make sure you turn your power off when doing it yourself if you have an electric pump (also pull the plug as electricity can still flow). Use the remaining water in your tank around your garden, pool, car to make good use of it.
Then run some freshwater from your garden hose through the tank inlet to flush out any remaining dirty water. Keep doing this until the water coming out of the outlet runs clear. Reasonably high-pressure water is best as it can easily remove any debris on the side of the tank.
To remove sludge without losing the rainwater you’ve already caught, you must pump out the organic material lying on the bottom using a tube inserted through the tank inlet. Many professional tank cleaning services are available. If you’re going to get into your tank are do it yourself, note that there are some dangers that go with this including working in confined spaces.