What is the critical first step in maintaining water storage tanks?

The critical first step in maintaining water storage tanks involves regular cleaning and disinfection. This process is essential because it helps ensure that the water stored in the tanks remains free from contaminants and pathogens that could compromise water quality and pose health risks. By initiating maintenance with cleaning and disinfection, any sediment, biofilm, or microbial growth is addressed directly, which prevents these issues from becoming more severe over time.

Additionally, maintaining clean and disinfected tanks fosters better overall tank performance and longevity since contaminants can lead to corrosion or other structural issues if left unchecked. While checking for leaks, inspecting structural integrity, and adding chlorine are all important components of tank maintenance, they typically follow the foundational step of ensuring that the tank is clean and safe for water storage. Neglecting cleaning can undermine the effectiveness of subsequent maintenance actions.