How to Stop Water Leakage from a Plastic Water Tank?

Whether you have a cement water tank or a plastic water tank to fulfil your water storing requirements, both the materials decay with time and get cracks and crevices in the long term. Therefore maintaining a healthy life of these water tanks require a regular interval maintenance session. It not only helps in maintaining proper hygiene but also keeps these water-storing units long-lasting. Still, if we face any issues with these water storage tanks, we can either approach professionals who are experts in their work or take it a step further by repairing themselves.

Here in this blog, our primary concern is the plastic water tanks and their leakage issues. So we will discuss the methods that can be adopted for repairing water leakage of a plaster water tank.

As we know, water tanks are stable entities and have stayed at a single place for many years. It results in the formation of dust or dirt at the exterior of the water tank. We need to remove these substances using a sander for deep cleaning. Other than this, use water and soap to wash away dirt and dust and smoothen the water tank’s surface.

Don’t forget to empty the water tank and dry it thoroughly before heading ahead, fixing cracks in the water tank. There are several ways professionals use to fix cracks based on their positions and sizes. But here, we will discuss two or three methods for repairing plastic water tank cracks and crevices.

Read Also: Sintex Water Tank Price

Causes of Water Leakage in Plastic Water Tanks.

Before jumping into the solutions, it’s important to understand why plastic water tanks develop leaks. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Wear and Tear Over Time

Plastic water tanks are subject to wear and tear, especially when exposed to harsh weather conditions like extreme heat, cold, and UV rays. Over time, the material can weaken, leading to small cracks and eventually leaks.

2. Physical Damage

Accidental impacts from heavy objects or rough handling during installation or cleaning can cause cracks or punctures. Even small scratches on the surface can weaken the tank’s structure.

3. Poor Installation

If the tank isn’t properly supported, uneven pressure can cause stress points that may lead to leaks. Improper connections at the inlet or outlet points can also result in water leakage.

4. Faulty Fittings and Joints

Most water tanks have several fittings for pipes, hoses, or valves. Leaks often occur at these connection points, especially if the fittings are loose, worn out, or incorrectly sealed.

5. Manufacturing Defects

Although rare, manufacturing defects in the plastic tank itself can lead to weak spots that develop into leaks over time. Regular inspection is essential to catch such issues early on.

How to Identify the Source of Water Leakage?

The first step in stopping water leakage from a plastic water tank is identifying the exact source of the problem. Here’s how to do it:

1. Visual Inspection

Carefully inspect the exterior of the tank for visible cracks, holes, or damage. Pay special attention to connection points and areas that experience constant stress, such as the base and corners.

2. Dry the Tank

Empty the tank completely and allow it to dry. This will make it easier to spot cracks and weak points that may not be visible when the tank is full.

3. Use Soapy Water

For small, hard-to-spot leaks, mix water with soap and apply it to the suspected areas. If bubbles form when water is added to the tank, you’ve found the leak.

4. Check Fittings and Valves

Ensure that all the valves, pipes, and joints connected to the tank are properly sealed. Leaks around fittings are common and can be mistaken for cracks in the tank.

Methods to Stop Water Leakage from a Plastic Water Tank

Once you’ve identified the source of the leak, it’s time to fix it. Below are several effective methods for stopping water leakage, ranging from temporary solutions to more permanent repairs.

1. Using Epoxy Putty for Minor Cracks

Epoxy putty is a versatile and reliable solution for fixing small cracks and holes in plastic water tanks. It is waterproof and forms a strong bond with the plastic material.

Steps:

• Clean the Area: Ensure the leaking area is clean and dry. Use sandpaper to roughen the surface slightly for better adhesion.
• Mix the Epoxy: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the epoxy putty.
• Apply the Putty: Press the putty into the crack or hole, ensuring it fully covers the damaged area.
• Allow it to Cure: Leave the putty to cure for the recommended time (usually a few hours to overnight).

2. Plastic Welding for Larger Cracks

Plastic welding is a more advanced and permanent solution for larger cracks or holes in plastic water tanks. This process involves melting the plastic around the crack and fusing it back together using a heat source, such as a heat gun or a soldering iron.
Steps:

• Clean the Area: Ensure the crack is free of dirt and moisture.
• Use a Heat Gun: Gradually heat the area around the crack with a heat gun or soldering iron until the plastic starts to soften.
• Weld the Crack: Use a plastic welding rod (usually made of the same material as the tank) to fill in the crack while the plastic is still soft.
• Allow it to Cool: Let the welded area cool and solidify.

3. Fiberglass Patch for Extensive Damage

For significant damage, such as large holes or wide cracks, using a fiberglass patch can provide a durable and long-lasting solution.
Steps:

• Prepare the Area: Clean and dry the surface, and sand the area around the crack.
• Apply Fiberglass Resin: Mix the fiberglass resin according to the instructions and apply it around the crack or hole.
• Apply the Fiberglass Mat: Place a fiberglass mat over the resin and press it down firmly.
• Coat with Resin: Apply another layer of resin on top of the fiberglass mat, making sure it’s fully saturated.
• Allow it to Cure: Let the patch cure for the recommended time.

4. Using Sealants and Waterproof Tapes

Sealants and waterproof tapes are quick fixes for minor leaks or when you need a temporary solution until a permanent repair can be made.
Steps:

• Dry the Area: Make sure the area around the leak is completely dry.
• Apply the Sealant: Use a waterproof sealant designed for plastic tanks and apply it directly to the crack or hole.
• Use Waterproof Tape: For extra protection, apply waterproof tape over the sealant.

When to Replace the Tank?

While repairing leaks is often effective, there comes a time when it may be more cost-effective to replace the tank altogether. Here are some signs that you might need a new tank:

• Multiple Cracks or Extensive Damage: If your tank has several cracks or large holes, constant repairs may become impractical.
• Weakened Structure: If the tank shows signs of structural weakening (warping, thinning), it may be time to invest in a new one.
• Frequent Leaks: If you find yourself constantly patching up leaks, a replacement could save you time and money in the long run.

Conclusion

Apart from these methods cover for plastic water tank also important for home water tank. Several ways are prevailing in the market for fixing water leakage issues in a plastic water tank. However, the mentioned methods here are the traditional ones and highly effective. In case you are dealing with the water leakage issue in your plastic water tank, you can adopt any of these three methods considering the crack size and methods’ repairability. You will get satisfactory results with fewer expenses.

FAQ

1. Can I Use Household Glue to Fix a Leaking Tank?

Household glue is not suitable for repairing water tanks as it is not waterproof or durable enough to handle the pressure and weight of the water inside. Use specialized sealants or epoxy putty instead.

2. How Long Will an Epoxy Putty Repair Last?

Epoxy putty repairs can last for several years if applied correctly, but they are generally considered temporary fixes for minor leaks. Larger cracks or extensive damage may require a more permanent solution, such as plastic welding.

3. Is it Safe to Drink Water From a Repaired Plastic Tank?

As long as the repair materials used are non-toxic and designed for use with water tanks, it should be safe. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure the tank is thoroughly cleaned