When Should I Replace My Water Storage Tank?

Mosman Well Works • December 31, 2020

Water storage tanks take water from your well and store it until you are ready to use it in your home. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and configurations. They provide numerous benefits such as providing on-demand water so you don’t have to wait for the water to make its way from your well through or through a filtration system if your tank is equipped with one. They also help extend the life of your well pump since it doesn’t have to continuously turn on and off each time you need water.

Determining the Life Expectancy of Your Tank

Although modern water storage tanks can last longer than older tanks because of the materials used to construct them, all tanks will require regular inspections, maintenance, and eventually, replacement. Below we will review several topics that will help you determine approximately how long your tank should last, and how to spot signs of wear so you can get it replaced before it’s too late. 

Tank Construction & Environment

Storage tanks come in a variety of materials and it’s important to identify the conditions it will be installed in to determine which is the best choice. However, if it is well maintained, any of these choices should last around 20-25 years before needing to be replaced. Some of the more common materials for storage tanks include:


  • Fiberglass
  • Polyethylene
  • Steel/Galvanized steel
  • Lined and unlined



Just as important as the type of tank is the environment it will be installed in. Factors such as water temperature and corrosiveness can impact the longevity of your tank, as well as the weather conditions it experiences. For example, if your region has cold or freezing weather yearly, it is important that the tank is properly insulated or buried to avoid any freeze/thaw complications that can shorten the life of the tank. Keeping these factors in mind will help you maximize the longevity of your tank.

Installation and Maintenance

Proper installation of your water storage tank is essential to ensure it functions properly and without the need for excessive maintenance and repairs. Hiring experts like Mosman Well Works will leave you confident that your tank is installed the right way with the right parts. Once the tank is in use, regular inspections and maintenance should be performed to ensure it continues to function efficiently and allow for preventative measures to be taken if signs of wear are observed.

Signs of Wear

Speaking of wear, there are several signs to watch for that can tell you if your tank needs service or is nearing the end of its life. These signs include the following:



  • Rust
  • Leaks
  • Pressure loss or unstable water pressure
  • Excessive air in your plumbing systems
  • Pump cycling


Failure to regularly inspect your tank and take corrective action to repair any of these issues can result in the tank needing to be replaced sooner.

Contact Us

At Mosman Well Works, we have the knowledge and experience to find the perfect solution for your storage tank needs. From picking the right water storage tank and making sure it is properly installed, to performing regular inspections and maintenance, we can get any job done. Contact us to speak to one of our team members today.

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