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.