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Should I flush out my water tank? How long will my pump last?

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Created by Bundeenabuoy > 9 months ago, 12 Dec 2020
Bundeenabuoy
NSW, 1239 posts
12 Dec 2020 6:43PM
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I recently connected a new water pump. I then topped up the tank. When the water started to flow there was a slight momentary brown colour in it which quickly disappeared. It tastes fine, but I think I should pump all the water out.
My issue is: Will I damaged my new water pump running it for more than ten minutes at a time? or can I pump the whole tank out in one go?

garymalmgren
1357 posts
12 Dec 2020 4:59PM
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Bundeenabuoy said..
I recently connected a new water pump. I then topped up the tank. When the water started to flow there was a slight momentary brown colour in it which quickly disappeared. It tastes fine, but I think I should pump all the water out.
My issue is: Will I damaged my new water pump running it for more than ten minutes at a time? or can I pump the whole tank out in one go?


How big is the tank?
100 litres would take a fair while to pump, I guess.

If it tastes fine couple of drop of water purifier would be all I would do.

Gray

wongaga
VIC, 653 posts
12 Dec 2020 8:06PM
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It shouldn't hurt your pump. You might think about fitting a quality filter which will dramatically improve the taste.

Cheers, Graeme

Wavesong
QLD, 145 posts
12 Dec 2020 7:53PM
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Is there a way of releasing the water flow before it hits the pump?

Personally, having suffered a nasty case of Aeromonas hydrophila from an unidentified source (the only possible source was boat water tanks, even that being unlikely, but...), if you have doubts about contaminated water supply, empty it out and start afresh with some sterilising tabs.

I do a complete empty every 6months, pour copious quantities (say 10-15l) of vinegar into the tanks, let it sit for 24 hrs then flush until I can no longer taste vinegar.

wongaga
VIC, 653 posts
13 Dec 2020 7:08AM
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Maybe slightly off-topic, but have a look at the treatment products which are sold for domestic rainwater tanks. I have used Aquasafe for years and it does an excellent job of keeping the wee beasties at bay. Since you only use a capful per tank fill, a litre will last you a couple of years.
Using that plus a good cleanout, and decent filter will give you the best shot at good tank water.

Cheers, Graeme

saltiest1
NSW, 2560 posts
13 Dec 2020 7:28AM
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When you check tank water in any building there's a natural build up of brown slime or sediment on the base. It's why the outlet is a few inches off the bottom and a drain plug below. I'd say the brown is exactly that sediment. Having said that, if there's particles, usually white, then that toilet cross connection has happened and it's time to detox the tank.

Ramona
NSW, 7732 posts
13 Dec 2020 8:10AM
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I've taken a liking to Aldi bottled water for tea/coffee consumption.

Bundeenabuoy
NSW, 1239 posts
14 Dec 2020 7:41AM
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I recent installed a Jabsco pump and their specs say the pump can run dry for extended periods. So while it makes sense not to run it more than necessary like that, it probably won't damage it.
They also have a Jabsco Aqua filter which could be installed next to the pump. They come with a secondary replaceable filter priced around $100. Worth considering.
I emptied my water tank with only clear water flowing. I plan to use Aquatabs or a similar product when next I fill my tank.
Thanks for all the advice.

Bundeenabuoy
NSW, 1239 posts
14 Dec 2020 7:43AM
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saltiest1 said..
When you check tank water in any building there's a natural build up of brown slime or sediment on the base. It's why the outlet is a few inches off the bottom and a drain plug below. I'd say the brown is exactly that sediment. Having said that, if there's particles, usually white, then that toilet cross connection has happened and it's time to detox the tank.


I plan to give you a call in the future regarding my toilet situation.

wongaga
VIC, 653 posts
14 Dec 2020 8:16AM
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One thing to watch for if you're pumping out the crud from the bottom of your tank is clogging of the little screen filter that is built into some pumps. It's easy to remove and clean, but just as easily forgotten.

MorningBird
NSW, 2700 posts
14 Dec 2020 8:46PM
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Ramona said..
I've taken a liking to Aldi bottled water for tea/coffee consumption.


I always took bottled water in 15 litre containers for drinking. Boat water for washing up, cooking etc. And the tank water was good but did get a metallic taste from the stainless tanks.

saltiest1
NSW, 2560 posts
14 Dec 2020 10:46PM
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Good option for pure water is a 2 stage filter with 2nd stage at .5 micron to remove all flavour.

Bundeenabuoy
NSW, 1239 posts
15 Dec 2020 3:45AM
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MorningBird said..

Ramona said..
I've taken a liking to Aldi bottled water for tea/coffee consumption.



I always took bottled water in 15 litre containers for drinking. Boat water for washing up, cooking etc. And the tank water was good but did get a metallic taste from the stainless tanks.


I use the 15 litre containers for drinking and the boat water for washing up also. I also have a foot pump delivering sea water which is a useful backup.



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