Welcome! My name is Dawn and this is my agricultural blog. I'm new to farming so I'm still learning all I can about everything I need to know. When I got to the farmhouse, I got in touch with the folks who live in the neighbouring farms so I could ask them for advice. Thankfully, my neighbours were very kind. They took the time to explain the different types of equipment I needed to run a successful farming operation. I decided to write this blog so I could offer my best advice to others who are interested in the farming industry.
Four Ways To Keep Algae Out of Your Rainwater Tank
Rainwater tanks are an environmentally friendly method of conserving water. However, they can be prone to harmful algae growth. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to keep this risk to a minimum.
Keep out of the light
Algae grows through photosynthesis, which uses both heat and light. You should therefore keep your tank in the shade to inhibit this growth. You can do this by keeping it near a building that blocks the sun or by setting up an awning above it. Make sure that you use an opaque tank with thick sides so that the sun's rays can't get through. Food-grade UV-treated polyurethane, stainless steel or concrete are all good materials for a rainwater tank.
Use a smooth-walled tank
Tanks with smooth walls rather than corrugated walls are less prone to algae, as there are fewer corners and recesses for them to grow in. This does not mean that a corrugated tank needs to be replaced — only that you will have to pay more attention to cleaning it.
Filter the rainwater
The more filters you have in the place, the less you will have to fear algae. Make sure there is a meshed strainer with a dust cover, which will help to prevent light from entering the tank as well as large pieces of debris. A multi-stage system is the best type of filtration, and a UV filter should help to keep the water as clean as possible.
Clean the tank regularly
The entire system should be cleaned a few times a year. Once the tank has been emptied, you can use a solution of dishwasher detergent in hot water to clean the inside and outside of a tank. This is best done with a hard bristle brush or a pressure hose. The tank will then need to be rinsed thoroughly and allowed to dry out before filling again. However, this is probably a job best left to a professional tank cleaner; it can be hard work, and it is not safe to remove the sediment at the bottom of the tank without proper training, experience and equipment.
Algae need not be a serious problem as long as you are filtering and cleaning your tank. If you are in any doubt, your rainwater tank supplier will be happy to advise you on how to keep your water clean and pure. Make an appointment with a professional for more information.