Fresh Water Holding Tank Sanitization Procedure

Skipper July 17, 2012 Ask The Skipper

Sludge and malodor in your fresh water holding tank can be caused by bacteria, fungus, mold, or algae. This contamination often occurs during winter lay-up. That’s why it important to satirize your tank each spring or twice a year if your boat is in constant use for the entire year. Taking proper care of you fresh water tank will insure that you have a constant supply of clean, fresh drinking and washing water aboard your boat.

Fresh Water Holding Tank Sanitization Procedure:

1. While filling your tank to maximum capacity with potable water, add 1 cup of chlorine bleach for each 40 gallons of tank capacity. Open all of the water taps to insure that the mixture runs through the hoses and fittings. Top up the tank with potable water.

2. Wait for 24 hours and then drain the tank, running the water through all of the taps.

3. Fill the tank with potable water and drain through all of the taps.

4. While filling the tank with potable water, add 1, cup of vinegar for each 40 gallons of tank capacity. Open all of the water taps to insure that the mixture runs through the hoses and fittings. Top up the tank with potable water.

5. Wait for 24 hours and then drain the tank, running the water through all of the taps.

6. Fill the tank with potable water and drain through all of the taps.

7. Fill the tank with potable water and enjoy

NOTE: Be sure that the water you are using is safe for drinking. Normally potable water supplied by a municipality is safe bet check to be sure. This is especially important when you are cruising and not at your home port. Using an activated charcoal / ceramic water filter in line with your dedicated drinking water tank is also advisable.

Captain Aurora
Richard Kittar