A common question that comes up when discussing water tanks, is: ‘are fiberglass water tanks safe?’ This is largely due to the image that is conjured in the mind when one things of fiberglass., You think of chemicals, fibres, and resins, which tends to paint an image of a material that would be potentially unsafe for using to store water. However, contrary to this belief, storing potable drinking water in a fiberglass tank is one of the cleanest, hygienic, and taint-free water storage solutions available.
Certainly, fiberglass water tanks are made using resins, but these are manufactured using resins that are perfectly matched for storing a specific liquid material. This means that yes, there are certain fiberglass water tanks that would be unsafe for storing potable drinking water. However, there are other, specially designed fiberglass water tanks that are perfectly safe and compliant with the Australian Standard AS4020.
What is the best material for a water tank?
There are many different materials that can be used for creating a water tank, each with their own special properties. However, we believe that fiberglass is without question, the very best.
Plastic water tanks are the most common, typically because they are the cheapest. Though in terms of durability and longevity, you cannot beat a fiberglass water tank.
You may also encounter concrete, carbon steel, and thermoplastic, among other materials. However, fiberglass tends to come up top. Then again, it all depends on what you are using the water tank for.
For storing potable drinking water, when using fiberglass, you must ensure that you purchase directly from the very best manufacturers and ensure that the installation process is overseen by seasoned professionals who display the utmost care and attention.
How long do fiberglass water tanks last?
Another common question is how long a fiberglass water tank will last. It’s all very well and good choosing the “best” material for your water tank if you aren’t going to get much in the way of longevity out of it.
How long a fiberglass water tank, much like any of the other materials used, largely depends on the manufacturer. This is why you must be especially careful when you are doing your research. Take your time to read up on as many different manufacturers as you can, before rushing into it and making a purchase.
A high-quality fiberglass water tank that has been manufactured by the very best, should last for at least 30 to 40 years! This is assuming that the very best fiberglass, resin, and construction techniques are used.
Fiberglass tank advantages and applications
- A traditional water tank or ditch material has a number of disadvantages such as corrosion, aging, wear and tear, and many more.
- A fiberglass water tank’s size, shape, and specifications can be designed to meet your individual requirements.
- A fiberglass take that is made using high-quality fiberglass materials has the following benefits: longevity, no pollutants that are harmful to the human body, anti-aging performance, incombustible, fire retardant, non-conductive, and antistatic.
- They do not fade even after extended use.
- Fiberglass are made of a gel coat resin, glass fibre cloth, and use a high density board surface for strengthening, and anti-corrosion.
- They are lightweight, but with high-strength, making them ideal for water treatment.
- Fiberglass can be used in the following applications: petroleum, chemical, mining, power, marine exploration, electroplating, shipping, water and wastewater treatment, cooling towers, and aquaculture (the application of which will affect the manufacturing process).
Are there any potential dangers for using fiberglass water tanks?
Please note that you only run the following risks if you choose a poor-quality manufacturer for your fiberglass water tanks. If for example, if you choose a Safe Fiberglass Tank, then you shouldn’t run into any issues, as they use the best materials and manufacturing process to deliver the safest results.
Poor quality materials and manufacturing can however lead to the following dangers:
Excessive levels of styrene in the tank can be seen with a gelatinous layer on top of the water with a strong solvent odour and can lead to:
- Irritation to the eyes, nose, and skin
- Styrene sickness, which gives abdominal pain and often diarrhoea
- Respiratory problems
- Certain neurological symptoms such as colour vision impairment
- Nausea and vomiting
This is in the extreme case and, to be honest if you regularly check your water tank, you should be able to spot a gelatinous layer on the top of the water.
Osmotic blistering
Osmotic blistering can occur in the lining of poorly made fiberglass water tanks. These little blisters are prolific breeding grounds for material that can often burst, thus contaminating the water.
Again, these problems are only something that you should worry about if you don’t do your due diligence when selecting a manufacturer and make a point of buying only the cheapest fiberglass water tanks.
Those which have been designed and manufactured by professionals, especially for the use of storing potable drinking water, are entirely safe for use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, fiberglass water tanks are entirely safe to use, provided you purchase from a reputable supplier. Safe Fiberglass Tank is a prime example of a reputable and reliable manufacturer of fiberglass water tanks. By choosing a cheaper and less reputable supplier, you run the risk of purchasing a poorly manufactured fiberglass water tank that may end up causing you problems in the long term.
That said, as long as you do your due diligence, a fiberglass water tank that has been well-made and is regularly maintained will be a perfectly safe option for you.