Water tanks are essential to most homes, especially in areas with irregular municipal water supply. They store clean water for daily use—drinking, bathing, cooking, and cleaning. However, like any system, water tanks can develop problems over time. Left unchecked, these issues can affect water quality, waste resources, and lead to costly repairs.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common water tank problems, how to identify them early, and what steps to take to fix them. We’ll also explore tips on regular maintenance to extend the life of your tank and ensure a consistent supply of clean water.
- Leaks and Cracks in Water Tanks
How to Identify:
Leaks and cracks are among the most frequent issues with water tanks, especially older plastic or concrete ones. If you notice:
Damp patches or water around the base of the tank
Unexplained drop in water levels
Dripping or trickling sounds when the tank is full
Mold or mildew near the tank
You likely have a leak.
Causes:
Aging or weathered material
Poor foundation or installation
Temperature changes (expansion and contraction)
Accidental impact or pressure from surrounding structures
How to Fix:
Plastic Tanks: Small cracks can be sealed using a plastic epoxy sealant. Make sure the tank is dry before applying, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Concrete Tanks: Use waterproof cement or tank-grade patching compound. For serious damage, call a professional.
Metal Tanks: Leaks in steel tanks might indicate rust damage. Use a rust remover, then patch with an epoxy sealant. Severe corrosion may require a tank replacement.
- Sediment Build-Up at the Bottom
How to Identify:
Murky or discolored water
Visible particles in tap water
Reduced water flow or clogged taps
Causes:
Sediment, such as sand, silt, or rust particles from old pipes, can accumulate at the bottom of the tank over time.
How to Fix:
Drain the tank completely.
Use a hose or wet vacuum to remove the debris.
Clean the inside with mild detergent and rinse thoroughly.
Install a sediment filter at the inlet to prevent future accumulation.
Tip: Schedule this as part of your regular maintenance at least once every 6 months.
- Algae Growth
How to Identify:
Green, slippery residue inside the tank
Foul smell or odd taste in the water
Presence of insects or floating matter
Causes:
Exposure to sunlight
Poorly sealed lids
Stagnant water or long storage without use
How to Fix:
Empty the tank and scrub the inner walls with a brush and diluted bleach or an approved water tank cleaner.
Rinse thoroughly until no smell remains.
Ensure the tank has a tight, opaque lid to block sunlight.
If needed, install a UV filter for extra protection.
- Overflowing or Faulty Float Valve
How to Identify:
Water spilling from the top of the tank
Constant water supply sound even when the tank is full
Increased water bills
Causes:
A damaged or misaligned float valve (the device that controls water flow into the tank) may fail to shut off properly.
How to Fix:
Inspect the float valve for cracks or rust.
Clean or replace the float if needed.
Adjust the float arm so that it shuts the valve at the right level.
This is a relatively easy DIY fix, but always shut off the water supply before starting.
- Inlet or Outlet Blockages
How to Identify:
Slow water flow from taps
Gurgling sounds from pipes
Air bubbles or spurts when using water
Causes:
Blockages may be caused by dirt, insects, or small animals entering through poorly sealed tank openings or pipe buildup over time.
How to Fix:
Turn off the main valve and inspect the pipes for clogs.
Use a plumber’s snake or pressurized water to clear blockages.
Install mesh filters or netted screens at inlet and outlet points.
Check and clean these filters during routine maintenance.
- Corrosion in Metal Water Tanks
How to Identify:
Reddish or metallic-tasting water
Rust stains on walls or taps
Visible rust spots on the tank exterior
Causes:
Aging tanks exposed to air and moisture
Improper coatings or lack of maintenance
High mineral content in water (hard water)
How to Fix:
Drain and inspect the tank.
Remove rust using a wire brush or rust remover.
Recoat the inside with tank-safe anti-corrosion paint.
If corrosion is widespread, consider replacing the tank.
Tip: Use stainless steel or polymer-lined tanks to avoid corrosion altogether.
- Tank Not Filling Properly
How to Identify:
Low water levels despite regular supply
No sound of water flowing during usual refill times.
Causes:
Damaged float valve
Blocked inlet pipe
Airlocks in the plumbing system
How to Fix:
Check the float valve and inlet for damage or obstruction.
If airlock is suspected, open both inlet and outlet valves simultaneously to release trapped air.
Consult a plumber if the problem persists.
- Pest and Contaminant Entry
How to Identify:
Dead insects, larvae, or foreign objects in the water
Unpleasant odor or taste
Health complaints among users
Causes:
Poorly sealed lids or open vents
Cracked tank walls
Unsanitized surroundings
How to Fix:
Use a food-grade lid with a secure locking mechanism.
Install insect-proof mesh covers on all vents.
Ensure tanks are raised off the ground with a sealed base.
Regular Maintenance Tips for Water Tanks
Routine inspection and regular maintenance are key to preventing most water tank issues. Here are some best practices:
Monthly
Check water quality—color, taste, and smell.
Inspect for leaks, cracks, or visible pests.
Every 6 Months
Clean the tank thoroughly.
Flush out sediment buildup.
Check all inlet/outlet filters.
Yearly
Re-coat metal tanks if needed.
Service the float valve.
Inspect plumbing and overflow systems.
When to Call a Professional
While minor issues can be handled at home, some water tank problems require expert help, such as:
Structural damage or severe cracks
Electrical components in pressure tanks
Persistent water quality issues
Hiring a licensed plumber or tank technician ensures your tank is safe, compliant, and long-lasting.
Final Thoughts
Water tanks are the backbone of your home’s water supply system. But just like any asset, they need attention. Whether it’s a minor leak, sediment build-up, or corrosion, being able to spot problems early and fix them correctly will save you time, money, and frustration.
With regular maintenance, high-quality components, and a proactive approach, your water tank can serve your household reliably for many years.
If you’re building or upgrading your system, choose tanks with durable materials, proper insulation, and filtration options to reduce future issues.
Stay alert. Stay clean. And let your water tank work the way it should—quietly, efficiently, and safely.