Water towers are important pieces of infrastructure for local communities. They serve as symbols and provide reliable water supplies in case of emergencies. Government agencies must keep these towers in good condition for public health and safety, as compromised towers can lead to leaks or contaminated water.
There are many ways local governments can maintain water towers to protect their communities and avoid the expenses that come from emergency repairs or replacements. Here are just a few tips for establishing a water tower maintenance program.
Conduct Regular Inspections
Frequent inspections are among the most important elements of maintaining your water tower. A thorough visual check can help identify early issues such as rust, leaks, or foundational damage. However, you should also perform more in-depth inspections to look for smaller issues that aren’t as visually apparent.
We recommend performing a comprehensive evaluation every three to five years. This includes an interior washout to clean sediment and a close examination of the tank’s internal and external coatings, structural components, and safety features. These detailed inspections provide the data needed to plan and budget for future work.
Implement a Proactive Maintenance Schedule
The two main types of work governments can do for water leaks are proactive and reactive maintenance. Establishing a proactive maintenance schedule can help you manage assets effectively and plan ahead for new coating applications or structural updates.
Reactive maintenance involves taking care of issues as they arise. While a proactive maintenance schedule is the best way to avoid issues, it’s always a good idea to set contingent funds aside for reactive maintenance.
Prioritize Coating and Structural Integrity
One of the most important ways local governments can maintain water towers is by prioritizing their protective coatings. These coatings are some of the strongest defenses against contamination. Over time, they can degrade due to sun exposure and weather, leaving the steel vulnerable to rust. Repainting the interior and exterior of the tank is a significant but necessary investment.
Alongside coating maintenance, it is important to address structural issues promptly. Repairing or replacing damaged ladders, vents, or railings ensures the tower remains safe for inspection and maintenance personnel.
A well-maintained water tower is a sign of a community that values its infrastructure and the health of its citizens. Accounting for potential issues and knowing how to take care of them can safeguard the local community while offering more cost-effective options for maintaining the water tower throughout the decades.