Ensuring Safe Drinking Water & Repairing Your Tank After a Storm

Cyclone Alfred has left a trail of destruction in Northern NSW, bringing torrential rain, high winds, and flooding. As communities begin the recovery process, one of the most urgent concerns is ensuring access to safe drinking water—especially for those relying on rainwater tanks for their household supply.

If you’ve discovered your water tank has been damaged, it’s crucial to act quickly and carefully to assess the situation, prevent contamination, and restore your water system. This guide will walk you through how to inspect, clean, and repair your tank so you can continue to have a safe and reliable water supply.

1. Prioritise Safe Drinking Water Immediately

If Your Water Tank is Compromised, Do NOT Drink the Water Yet

Even if your tank looks intact, strong winds, flying debris, or flooding could have introduced contaminants such as dirt, bacteria, chemicals, or even dead animals into your water supply.

✅ Use alternative drinking water sources (bottled water or stored emergency supplies) until you can confirm the safety of your tank’s water.
✅ Boil water for at least 3 minutes if no other drinking water is available.
✅ Use water purification tablets or household bleach (5-6 drops per litre) to disinfect water before drinking.

Important: If floodwaters have submerged your tank, the water is very likely contaminated and should NOT be consumed until treated or replaced.

2. Inspect Your Water Tank for Damage

After a severe storm, even small cracks or structural weaknesses can cause leaks or contamination. Here’s how to assess your tank:

Check for Visible Structural Damage

✔️ Cracks or splits in poly tanks – Even small fractures can lead to leaks over time.
✔️ Dents or warping in steel tanks – Look for buckling or distortion in the tank’s body.
✔️ Leaking seams or joins – Check where panels connect for leaks or weakness.
✔️ Base stability – If your tank has shifted position, it may be at risk of collapse.

Inspect for Contaminants

✔️ Discoloured or murky water – Floodwaters may have introduced dirt or bacteria.
✔️ Unusual smells – A foul odour may indicate decaying organic matter.
✔️ Floating debris or dead animals – Remove any foreign objects immediately.

Examine Pipes, Fittings, and Guttering

✔️ Loose, cracked, or missing pipes – Strong winds may have loosened connections.
✔️ Gutter blockages – Leaves, branches, or dirt may be preventing proper water flow.
✔️ Overflow pipes and filters – Ensure they are functioning properly and not blocked.

Tip: If you’re unsure about the condition of your water tank, consider having it professionally inspected before using the water.

3. Clean & Disinfect Your Water Tank If It’s Contaminated

If contamination is suspected (due to flooding, debris, or discolouration), follow these steps before refilling or using the water:

Step-by-Step Tank Cleaning Guide

1️⃣ Drain the tank completely – If the water is unsafe, do not attempt to treat it—empty the tank first.
2️⃣ Remove any debris – Use a net or scoop to take out leaves, branches, or other contaminants.
3️⃣ Scrub the interior – If you can climb in, use a brand new broom with a mild detergent or a tank cleaning solution. Otherwise use a high powered pressure hose from top, with tank cleaning solution.
4️⃣ Rinse thoroughly – Flush the tank several times to remove cleaning residue.
5️⃣ Disinfect the tank – Add liquid chlorine or bleach (1 litre of household bleach per 1000 litres of water), let it sit for 12-24 hours, then drain and rinse again.
6️⃣ Refill with fresh rainwater or a safe water source.

Safety Note: Always use food-grade disinfectants and avoid harsh chemicals that can leave harmful residues.

4. Repairing or Replacing a Damaged Water Tank

If your water tank has structural damage such as cracks, leaks, or dents, the best course of action will depend on the extent of the damage.

️ Small Repairs (Minor Cracks, Leaks & Loose Fittings)

Poly water tanks: Small cracks can often be repaired with a poly welding kit or an epoxy sealant designed for potable water use.

Steel water tanks: Small leaks may be patched with a waterproof sealant or silicone-based repair product.

Pipes & fittings: Replace any damaged or missing components to ensure a leak-free connection.

⚠️ When Replacement May Be Necessary

If your tank has major structural damage, such as:
❌ Large cracks or holes in poly tanks.
❌ Severe denting or rusting in steel tanks.
❌ A shifted or unstable base that cannot be corrected.

It may be safer and more cost-effective to replace your water tank rather than attempt repairs.

Need a replacement tank fast? The Water Tank Factory offers a wide range of high-quality poly water tanks built to withstand Australia’s harshest conditions. Contact us today for expert advice.

5. Prevent Future Storm Damage to Your Water Tank

Once your water tank is repaired or replaced, take steps to storm-proof it for future extreme weather events:

✔️ Secure anchoring: Ensure your tank is properly fixed to its base.
✔️ Install first-flush diverters & filtration: Prevent contamination in heavy rain.
✔️ Clear gutters regularly: Keep water collection systems free from debris.
✔️ Consider an underground or low-profile tank: Less exposure to wind and storm damage.
✔️ Store emergency drinking water separately: Always have a backup in case of contamination.

Final Thoughts: Recovering & Rebuilding After Cyclone Alfred

The aftermath of Cyclone Alfred is challenging, but ensuring access to clean water is a top priority for recovery. By following these steps, you can restore your water supply safely and prevent long-term issues with your water tank system.

If your tank needs repairs or replacement, reach out to The Water Tank Factory for expert advice on storm-resistant water tanks designed for Australian conditions.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—your water tank, hence fresh water supply, is one of your most valuable assets in a crisis.