3 Tips for Preventing Algae Growth in Your Rainwater Tank

Slimline tanks allow you to harvest water from your roof during the rainy season and store it for use throughout the year. Rainwater can be used for human consumption and chores around the house. You can also use it to water your lawn and garden and for agricultural purposes. That's why you need to keep it clean at all times and ensure there's no algae in the tank. Water that's contaminated with algae is unfit for consumption. Below are three tips that you can use to ensure that you have clean and healthy rainwater for domestic use.

Invest in an opaque tank

Algae reproduce through photosynthesis, a process that requires sunlight. So if you have a tank that allows sunlight to penetrate, it will encourage algae to grow and reproduce at a high rate. If you haven't yet bought a tank, consider investing in an opaque rather than a clear or translucent one. Also, keep the tank's lid on at all times so that light doesn't penetrate the top of the tank.

If you have already invested in a tank that's not opaque, don't lose hope. You can buy tank insulation that comes in an opaque material and use it all around the tank. The insulation will not only keep light out of the tank, but it will also prevent freezing during the cold season.

Use chlorine

Chlorine is not for reducing bacteria and viruses in water only— it can also be used to kill algae. You get to kill two birds with one stone; treat your water to eliminate any bacteria and prevent toxic algae blooms from growing in your tank. Mix four parts of chlorine for 1,000,000 parts water. If you're not sure, you can read the instructions on the bottle label. Don't use too much chlorine as it can give your water a weird taste and make it unsuitable for consumption.

Clean tank regularly

Algae tend to grow in water that's been sitting unused for many months. So you can keep them out by cleaning your tank at least once every three to six months. Make a point of utilising the stored water in your home. Use the water to irrigate your lawn and plants, clean outdoor structures and water livestock. This way, you don't have to misuse the stored water. Use all the water in the tank or flush it and use disinfectant to clean it. Doing this regularly will keep away algae and prevent sludge build-up at the bottom of the tank.

Follow these tips to prevent algae growth in your rainwater storage tank and preserve clean water for household use.


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