Fire water tanks are a vital component to keeping a building safe during a fire emergency, but they can be vulnerable to leaks and deterioration. While it isn’t possible to avoid these issues completely, a consistent inspection and maintenance schedule can diminish the risks and save money over time.
The most common issues that surface during routine tank inspections include corrosion on tanks and components, minor leaks in valves and pipes, sediment buildup within the tank, and wear and tear on critical components like pumps and valves. These issues may seem minor, but they can lead to more extensive damage and compromise the fire suppression system’s effectiveness. By catching these issues early through regular inspections, they can be fixed quickly and efficiently, potentially saving thousands in repairs down the road.
Leaks are a frequent issue with ground storage tanks, particularly if the floor has shifted over time. Pittsburg Tank & Tower Group notes that the most common cause for this is due to missing screens on vents and overflow pipes. Missing screens allow birds, squirrels and rodents to enter the tank, increasing the risk of pressure build up in the bottom of the tank that could result in a leak.
The NFPA requires that tanks be dry cleaned out every three years to help minimize leaks and corrosion. However, this process isn’t without its drawbacks, including the need to empty and remove the tank from service for extended periods of time. In order to keep fire protection available during this period, the FD will either use a fire pump and hose to draft water from a city source, or run water shuttles to bring in water from other sources. fire water tank repairs