The use of fresh water storage tanks is common in rural
areas of Arizona with limited or diminishing water resources.
Homeowners living in remote areas with low-yield and
seasonally dry wells or no wells must depend on water that
is trucked in with tankers and stored on site to cover basic
living necessities. Well owners with low-yielding wells may
also rely on large holding tanks and booster pumps to collect
well water before home delivery with the aid of a pressure
tank. Emergency situations such as fires and water utilities
shortages may also require the short-term storage of fresh
water to cover the basic needs of dispossessed or displaced
persons.
There are several reasons to clean and disinfect water
storage tanks regularly including: to kill or prevent the
survival of waterborne pathogens (bacteria, viruses, and
other microorganisms) that can cause gastrointestinal and
other diseases; to prevent the accumulation of scale and
slime (biofilm), which can be sources of contaminants and
can also harbor pathogens; and to control the accumulation
of sediments and algal growth, which degrade the taste and
odor of potable water.
This bulletin provides step-by-step methods to disinfect
water storage tanks, tank descriptions, and maintenance
tips. In addition, a review is provided of various methods
of water testing for residual chlorine and water disinfection
using chlorine chemicals, ozone, and ultraviolet (UV) light
to assist anyone considering the purchase of a home water
disinfection system.