Sanitizing potable water tanks

[Billfletcher]

I forgot the recipe in regards to the amount of bleach to add to the water tanks.

I searched some old threads on here. Does this sound correct:

-To sanitize water, and drink it: ½ teaspoon bleach per 5 gal water. I only add bleach periodically if it’s been sitting in the tank for awhile, otherwise I don’t do this if the water appears to be ok.

-To “shock” the tank (annually): ¼ cup bleach per 15 gals water. Then rinse the tank, and refill.

 

[Almightys]

I think your on it from what I've read. Adding a few teaspoons to the city water isn't a bad idea considering the water sits for quite a period of time

 

[RollerCoastr]

this is found all over the 'net:

To assure complete sanitation of your potable water system, it is recommended that the following procedures be used. This applies if it is a new system, one that has not been used for a period of time, or one that may have become contaminated.
(1) Prepare a chlorine solution using one gallon of water and 1/4 cup of Clorox or Purex household bleach (5% sodium hypochlorite solution). With tank empty, pour chlorine solution into tank. Use one gallon of solution for each 15 gallons of tank capacity.
(2) Complete filling of tank with fresh water. Open each faucet and drain cock until all air has been released and entire system is filled.
(3) Allow to stand for three hours.
(4) Drain and flush with potable water (IMPORTANT)
(5) To remove excess chlorine taste or odor which might remain, prepare a solution of one quart vinegar to five gallons water and allow this solution to agitate in tank for several days by vehicle motion.
(6) Drain tank and again flush with potable water (IMPORTANT)
The above recommendations conform to Section 10.8 in the A 119.2 code covering electrical, plumbing and heating of a recreational vehicle. the solution is approved and recommended by competent health officials.

 

[Bob & Sue]

+1 on the above the only thing I do different is take the boat out for a couple hours to let the clorox slosh around. The vinegar does make a difference. I also remove any faucet aerators and rinse them.

 

[Billfletcher]

Thanks.

Our water is normally good quality without adding anything, but the heat we have been having seems to have turned it a bit sour. Gave it a shock and drain yesterday.

I think adding a teaspoon or two of bleach every fill up doesn’t hurt either going forward.

 

[bbwhitejr]

I wonder what gives here....Our boat is on a trailer and stays in a 14'x32' shed at my house. We live in the country and have a well. I have never ever done anything but fill it back up with water before each outing. I drain the tank completely when winterizing, fill it in the spring, flush the pink from the lines for maybe 5 minutes or so, and use it. I do use it to shower, brush teeth, wash dishes, etc. It smells fine, it tastes fine, and have never had an issue and have never used any bleach or anything else.

Any ideas why I never have an issue?

Thanks,
Bennett

 

[Jack380AC]

The water gods find favor with you.


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[Almightys]

I wonder what gives here....Our boat is on a trailer and stays in a 14'x32' shed at my house. We live in the country and have a well. I have never ever done anything but fill it back up with water before each outing. I drain the tank completely when winterizing, fill it in the spring, flush the pink from the lines for maybe 5 minutes or so, and use it. I do use it to shower, brush teeth, wash dishes, etc. It smells fine, it tastes fine, and have never had an issue and have never used any bleach or anything else.

Any ideas why I never have an issue?

Thanks,
Bennett

Lol yeah your using the heck out of it!
most fill 40+ gallons and its used to run ice maker and a few hand washings

mine was neglected a bit by previous owner

 

[Billfletcher]

If you are not drinking it, then I would not be overly concerned if I were you either.

My family and I are drinking the water from the tank several times per week, since it’s a second home. I have a good filter/UV, but even with that the water was not “right”.


Either way, a little bleach or other sanitizer is probably a good idea on a periodic basis. Bacteria and other baddies can be lurking, and you may never know it.

I wonder what gives here....Our boat is on a trailer and stays in a 14'x32' shed at my house. We live in the country and have a well. I have never ever done anything but fill it back up with water before each outing. I drain the tank completely when winterizing, fill it in the spring, flush the pink from the lines for maybe 5 minutes or so, and use it. I do use it to shower, brush teeth, wash dishes, etc. It smells fine, it tastes fine, and have never had an issue and have never used any bleach or anything else.

Any ideas why I never have an issue?

Thanks,
Bennett