How Long Does A Potable Water Tank Last?

When choosing a drinking water tank for your business premises, there are several factors to consider to ensure you select the most suitable model for your needs. For example, your chosen potable water tank must offer sufficient capacity, should be non-biodegradable, and should be classed as food-safe so that drinking water is safe for consumption.

However, like any business investment, choosing a potable drinking water tank should be a long-term decision – there’s little point spending money on a tank if it degrades prematurely and causes water to become contaminated. So, how long should a potable water tank last and what factors affect its lifespan?

Choosing The Right Tank Material

The material of the water tank has a direct effect on its lifespan. Usually, water tanks are constructed from metal or plastic, with different benefits in terms of cost, maintenance, and longevity:

• Plastic, which is non-biodegradable and can be made from UV-stabilised polymer to help prevent cracking, is a popular option for water storage. Enduramaxx potable drinking water tanks are manufactured from UV-stabilised MDPE polymer, designed for many years of outdoor use. At the end of its life, a plastic water tank can normally be recycled or repurposed to minimise the impact on the environment.
• Metal water tanks are constructed from steel and offer exceptional strength and durability. Although metal tanks can be more expensive than plastic, they can provide long-term storage when correctly installed, maintained, and protected from conditions that could cause corrosion.

Where You Place Your Tank Matters

The lifespan of a potable drinking water tank is influenced by its location. Some metal tanks are prone to corrosion, particularly in coastal regions, so exposure to wind and salt water should be minimised to maximise their durability. Specialist treatments or a protective sheet should be used if a metal tank is to be unavoidably exposed to the elements and there is a high risk of rusting.

Plastic tanks, if exposed to direct sunlight for long periods, may become less UV-resistant, which can lead to the formation of bacteria and algae. Positioning the tank in a suitable location and following the manufacturer's recommendations for installation and maintenance will help protect the tank and extend its useful lifespan.

How Usage Affects Tank Lifespan

Clean and fresh water is free from the harmful contaminants that can cause a water tank to degrade more quickly, so a tank that is used only for the storage of potable water is more likely to provide greater longevity. In contrast, a metal tank that is used to store saltwater, for example, is more likely to corrode quickly.

Therefore, the lifespan of a potable water tank will depend on factors including its material, location, use, installation, and ongoing maintenance. Choosing a tank manufactured from suitable, approved materials and using it for its intended purpose can help ensure reliable long-term water storage.

Maintenance Can Help Extend Tank Life

Good maintenance is an important part of getting the most from any potable drinking water tank. Regularly checking the tank and its fittings can help identify signs of damage, wear or deterioration before they become larger problems.

It is worth checking areas such as the tank body, lid, outlets, connections and surrounding installation for visible damage or issues. Keeping the tank and its surrounding area clean can also help support good hygiene and reduce the risk of contamination.

The exact maintenance requirements will depend on the tank and its application, so it is important to follow the manufacturer's guidance. Taking a proactive approach can help you identify potential problems earlier and keep the tank suitable for its intended use.

What Can Affect The Lifespan Of A Potable Water Tank?

There is no single lifespan that applies to every potable water tank. Two tanks made from the same material can experience different levels of wear depending on how and where they are used.

Some of the key factors to consider include:

• Material: The tank material should be suitable for the stored liquid and intended environment.
• UV exposure: Outdoor tanks should be manufactured from materials designed to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• Installation: A suitable, stable and properly prepared installation can help prevent unnecessary stress or damage.
• Usage: Tanks should only be used for the applications they have been designed and approved for.
• Maintenance: Regular checks can help identify issues before they affect the tank or its contents.
• Fittings and connections: Outlets, lids and other components should also be kept in good condition.

It is also important to consider the condition of the tank rather than relying solely on a set number of years. Regular inspections can help you identify changes such as cracks, deformation, damaged fittings or other signs of wear. If you notice anything that could affect the tank’s integrity or the quality of the stored water, it is worth seeking advice from the manufacturer or a qualified professional. This can help you determine whether the potable water tank can continue to be used safely or whether replacement may be appropriate.

Contact Us To Find Out More

At Enduramaxx, we sell an extensive range of high-quality potable water tanks which are DWI-approved and suited to a variety of applications and uses.

Whether you need a tank for domestic, commercial, agricultural or industrial use, our expert team can help you find a suitable solution based on your requirements. We can provide guidance on tank sizes, specifications and the different options available, helping you make an informed choice for your application.

If you are unsure which potable water tank is right for your project or would like to discuss your requirements, our team is happy to help.

To find out more, please call our expert team on 01778 562810.

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