Frequently Asked Questions

Book Your Tank Clean

How much does it cost to clean my water tank?

We do not have set prices due to many variables such as:

  • size of tank and how many
  • water source or feed water (rain, bore, creek, dam)
  • what type of tank (poly, concrete, galvanised)
  • how long since last cleaned / depth of sediment
  • travel to location
  • tank accessibility

Feel free to contact CJ for a friendly chat or send us an enquiry with these details, so we can provide you with an estimate.

When can I get my tanks cleaned?

We require water in the tank (preferably over 1/3 full) for a good clean, the more water, the better – do not wait for it to be empty! This can be done any time of the year. However, if there is a dead animal, bad taste/odour or illness associated with your water, then immediate draining of all water, cleaning and sanitising is essential before refilling. Please reach out to us to discuss further. NOTE: Plastic tanks need to be anchored if empty, and concrete tanks should not be left empty, as drying out will predispose them to cracking.

How often should I get my water tank cleaned?

QLD Health recommends your water tanks to be cleaned every 2-3years, and inspected every 6 months. In our experience, many factors can influence how often you should clean them. The quality of water can be affected by roofing and tank materials, paints, atmospheric contaminants, leaves, dust, and animal and bird droppings. We find locally, on average, every 2 years is adequate with good home maintenance (that is, ensuring adequate function and cleaning of inlet screens, strainers, outflow screens, UV blockers, first flush systems, gutters, roofs, and pipework). Clients who opt for annual servicing (comprehensive inspection, clean and treatment), are eligible for a discounted rate.

Please refer to enHealth guidance: The use of rainwater tanks, which provides information on potential threats to water quality and how to avoid them- enHealth guidance – The use of rainwater tanks | Australian Centre for Disease Control

What complimentary sanitising treatment do you use?

Puretec Tanksafe.  This is a tasteless, odourless treatment that is safe, non-carcinogenic and ecologically harmless (does not pollute wastewater systems). The active ingredients are included by the National Health & Medical Research Council (NHMRC) for use in Drinking Water (Australian Drinking Water Guidelines).

It does not contain chlorine (which we do not recommend in water tanks) which studies have shown to be potentially harmful to health and longevity. This professional grade water sanitiser, utilises the chemical reaction of Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) that neutralises 99.9% of harmful microorganisms then breaking down into water (H20) and oxygen (02). This oxygen then provides fresh aeration to still tank water. This fast-acting formula removes biofilm without any harmful side effects, and does not affect the protective layers of your tank, ensuring longevity. For further information on Tank safe, visit Puretec media.nl

How long before my water is safe to drink after tank sanitising treatment is applied?

This treatment, once diluted, is safe to drink immediately. We do recommend however, to allow 48 hours for the treatment to neutralise residual pathogens before consuming.

What do I do to prepare for my water tank to be cleaned?

  • Ensure tank is topped up where possible (for groundwater sources), two days prior to our arrival to allow water sediment to settle.
  • It is advisable that roof and gutters are free from excessive debris and buildup (be sure to bypass the inlet to the tank when cleaning).
  • Ensure tank is accessible by removing branches, weeds, and obstacles (please advise if tank is positioned in potentially difficult access points such as under floors, roofs, or manholes close to walls, limiting ladder access).

Do you get inside the tank?

With the latest hydro-vac technology, we are able to perform a comprehensive clean from the manhole, without compromising the integrity and cleanliness of your tank by entering it.

Do you use high-pressure water cleaning inside the tanks?

No. High-pressure water cleaning can be detrimental to the integrity of your tank, stripping off the protective layers. Our system and cleaning techniques ensure a comprehensive clean while not damaging your tank.

Do you advise a filter system to be installed?

Yes. Having your tank clean and free from harmful sediment is just one step to having clean, safe drinking water. If your water is coming from a potentially contaminated source (eg. repeatedly soiled roof, or dirty creek, dam, or bore), we highly recommend installation of a filter system that utilises UV filtration for optimum water quality.

ALL stored water (tanks) will have some degree of bacteria present. The presence of bacteria does not mean the water is unsafe to drink. If you have concerns, you can organise a complete bacteria water test through your local council, or install a filter. We do not offer water testing or filter installation, but are happy to provide recommendations.

Do you test the water?

No. As per the recommendations from the Environmental Health Committee (enHealth) of the Australian Health Protection Committee. Refer to page 26 – enHealth guidance – The use of rainwater tanks | Australian Centre for Disease Control

Regular chemical or microbiological testing of domestic rainwater tanks is not needed unless used for any commercial purpose or for community-based supplies. “Microbial testing of rainwater from domestic tanks is rarely necessary and in most cases is not recommended.”

The quality of water in your tanks change rapidly depending on the season, temperatures and incoming water source. Testing for specific microbes is often expensive and generally only warranted as part of an illness outbreak investigation. If you have concerns about your water quality, immediate cleaning and sanitising treatment is a suitable alternative to testing.

We recommend spending your money on installing an ultraviolet filter system rather than paying for a water test to show that you will have bacteria present in your tank.

Do you need drive up access to the water tank?

Although ideal, we do not require close access with our vehicle as we utilise a portable machine to be able to access more difficult areas.

Where does the sludge/sediment go?

The vacuumed sludge and sediment are emptied out into an appropriate area such as a nearby garden, lawn, or paddock (great fertiliser).

Why does my water have a yellow tinge?

Some water sources (especially around eucalyptus) are tannin-rich, which is a natural organic compound released that gives the water a tea-like colour (much like a teabag in hot water). This is not harmful to health.

What if I have no water?

We can advise you on local water trucks that can deliver and fill your tank if necessary.