Storing potable water safely is essential for public health, as well as compliance with regulations. Potable water must remain clean, safe and fit for consumption.
One way to ensure this is the case is by storing the water in a quality, potable water storage tank. At Franklin Hodge, we provide reliable potable water storage tanks that are designed to meet regulatory requirements, protecting water quality in residential, commercial and industrial settings.
A Guide to Potable Water Storage Tank Regulations
Materials and Build
Tanks should be made with materials that are certified safe for use with potable water. This includes galvanised steel and food-grade coatings like polyethene. These materials help prevent leaching, corrosion and bacterial growth.
Potable water tank linings need to meet specific standards like WRAS (Water Regulations Advisory Scheme) or BS EN 13280:2001, which specifies performance requirements for water tanks.
Storage Temperature
There are strict regulations in place to dictate the temperature at which potable water should be stored. Cold water systems should be maintained below 20°C and hot water above 60°C. Hot water should then be distributed so that it reaches a temperature of 50°C within 1 minute at outlets.
These storage temperatures are in place to help prevent the spread of Legionella. Legionella is a bacteria that can grow in temperatures between 20-50°C. It can cause Legionnaires disease, which has symptoms like fever, chills, cough and muscle aches.
Installation Requirements
Tanks should be installed on stable, level foundations to help prevent structural damage which could lead to contamination. Appropriate spacing and accessibility should be maintained so that inspections, cleaning and maintenance can be scheduled.
Pipes and fittings must also be potable water-approved and installed to help prevent backflow contamination.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular inspections and cleaning are also essential for sticking to potable water storage tank regulations. Cleaning can help remove sediment and biofilm, ensuring water remains safe and tanks function effectively. Issues like corrosion, cracks and leaks, to help prevent contamination.
Potable water storage tanks should also be drained every 5 years for a full, deep clean, before being refilled.
Franklin Hodge Potable Water Storage Tanks
We design, manufacture and install potable water tanks in accordance with all relevant regulatory standards.
- Our tanks are made with WRAS-approved linings, built from high-grade steel, offering brilliant durability.
- Our butyl-grade rubber linings are tested to BS6920 standards.
- We offer customisable and bespoke sizes and configurations, to meet the specific needs of your industry and premises.
- Our tanks are designed with inspection hatches and easy-to-clean linings, making maintenance simple.
- Our tanks can hold water ranging from -30°C to +120°C (60°C maximum for prolonged periods), without the structural integrity of the lining or the tank being affected.
In the unlikely event that the lining of your potable water storage tank is punctured, we also offer a repair service. Our team of technicians can repair this on-site, with a heat/pressure process, causing minimal business disruption. For overseas tanks, we also offer ‘cold’ repair kits.