Collection
and storage of rainwater introduces the potential for chemical,
physical and microbial contamination.
 In
most cases, chemical and physical quality of rainwater is
relatively easy to maintain, but microbial quality is more
difficult to manage. The most common hazards in water sources
obtained from surface catchments, including roof run-off,
are microbial pathogens of faecal origin (enteric pathogens).
Likely sources of enteric pathogens include:
- Faecal material (droppings) deposited by birds, lizards,
mice, rats, possums etc
- Dead animals and insects, either in gutters or in the
tank itself
Wimmera Water Solutions work with you to ensure that your
water quality is the best that it can be. We can arrange water
quality testing if you are concerned about possible contamination.
Our tank cleaning process ensures that there is minimal loss
of water, and chemicals are not used unless disinfection is
required.
As the owner of a rainwater tank, you are responsible for
the quality of water in your tank. There are a number of actions
you can take to ensure this quality:
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- Inspect the tank every 2-3 years for contamination
- Conduct water quality testing if required
- Regularly clean the tank to remove sediment and
sludge
- Disinfect the tank using chlorine to remove microbial
growth if evident (small white flakes in water)
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A first-flush diverter is effective in reducing the collection
of accumulated debris which can lead to a build up of sediment
and sludge. Wimmera Water Solutions can advise on other methods
of maintaining your tank water free of undesirable taste and
odour due to contaminating deposits, algae and harmful bacteria.
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