Introduction: Is your tap water really clean?
When you turn on the tap every morning and see clear water flowing out, do you think the water quality must be fine? But do you know that the secondary water supply tanks in many communities are actually dirtier than you can imagine - rusty, with algae growing wildly, and some tanks are even uncovered, with vegetables planted and birds raised next to them... These "invisible pollution" may be quietly endangering your health!
Today, let’s talk about how to thoroughly clean the water tank, say goodbye to green algae and rust, and make the tap water in your home truly safe and reliable!
1. Two "invisible killers" in the water tank

(1) Green algae - sunlight + stagnant water = nightmare
Green algae likes a humid and bright environment. If the water tank is not cleaned for a long time, direct sunlight and nutrients in the water will cause it to grow wildly. Green algae not only makes the water green and smelly, but may also release toxins. Drinking such water for a long time can cause gastrointestinal discomfort at the least, and damage the liver and kidneys at the worst!
(2) Rust: a chronic disease of water tank aging
The metal on the inner wall of the water tank will slowly rust if it is exposed to water and oxygen for a long time. The rust will turn the water into "red water", which is not only unpalatable, but also accelerates the aging of the water tank, and even causes leakage and structural damage.
Frequently Asked Questions:
"I just cleaned the water tank, but within a month, green algae started growing again. What should I do?"
"The water tank needs to be cleaned for a whole day, and the owner and the property management always quarrel..."
"I'm worried about the residue left when using bleach. Is there a safer method?"
Don’t worry, we will teach you how to clean the water tank scientifically!
2. Completely remove green algae and rust in three steps
Step 1: Removal of green algae - physical + chemical + biological methods
Physical cleaning : Use a soft-bristle brush or a nylon brush, focusing on the top, bracket and corners of the water tank. After brushing, open the water tank cover and expose it to the sun (ultraviolet sterilization).
Chemical cleaning :
Mild algae: 1 liter of water + 5 grams of baking soda, soak for 1 hour and then rinse.
Moderate pollution: 1 spoon of citric acid + 10 liters of water, soak for 2 hours, no residue is safer.
Stubborn algae: Use diluted bleach (1:3 ratio), but be sure to rinse thoroughly!
Biological algae control : "Moss rat" or "Yamato algae shrimp" can be placed in the landscape water tank to eat algae (suitable for non-drinking water systems).
Step 2: Rust removal - cleaning from the surface to the deep layer
Physical polishing : Use a high-pressure water gun to wash away the loose rust layer, and stubborn rust spots can be polished with a grinding machine (it is best to find a professional to do it).
Chemical dissolution :
Small rust: scrub with white vinegar + toothbrush.
For larger areas of rust: Soak in 5% or less citric acid or oxalic acid solution for 30 minutes, then rinse clean.
Professional rust remover: Use according to the instructions to avoid secondary corrosion.
Step 3: Deep disinfection - make the water tank look brand new
Ozone disinfection : suitable for large water supply systems, sterilization without residue.
Ultraviolet light : Install UV light to continuously inhibit bacterial growth.
Chlorine dioxide (ClO ₂ ) : A new generation disinfectant that is highly effective in killing bacteria and viruses, and can also decompose biofilms without producing harmful byproducts. It is especially suitable for home water tanks!
3. 6 rules for daily maintenance to prevent the water tank from being contaminated again

Cut off the algae's nutrient source : change the water regularly, add a shade cover or use a dark water tank.
Upgrade water tank material : replace with 304 stainless steel or PE water tank, and coat the inner wall with food-grade epoxy resin paint to prevent rust.
Intelligent monitoring of water quality : water quality sensor is installed to detect pH value, turbidity, etc. in real time, and automatically alarm when abnormal.
Regular cleaning : Clean once every six months in ordinary communities, and once every three months in old communities or areas with high temperature and humidity.
Transparent community management : chemicals and processes are announced before cleaning, and water quality reports are made public after completion to reassure owners.
Emergency plan : Prepare portable water purification equipment and sign an agreement with a professional cleaning company to ensure 24-hour response.
4. Real case: From a “big complaint house” to a “model community”
A certain old residential area once had algae overflowing in the water tank and rust blocking the water pipes, and residents complained every day. Later, the property management team hired a professional team to use a combination of "mechanical rust removal + ozone disinfection + light-shielding transformation" and published water quality reports every month. After three months, residents said: "The water has become clearer, and there is no more scale on the kettle!"
In summary,
water tank cleaning is not a simple "flushing" job, but requires a three-pronged approach of scientific methods + daily maintenance + technological innovation. Only in this way can we truly protect the safety of tap water at home!