A clean catchment means safe water

Allen Pitcher of Pristine Water Systems say it’s important to maintain your tank, roof, gutters and pipework and install a filtration system.

Clean, healthy water is our most precious resource. When we are reliant on catching our own rainwater, every drop counts.

But do we need to compromise water quality and the health of our families to conserve water? Absolutely not, according to Allen Pitcher from Pristine Water Systems.

“Rainwater quality is affected as soon as it hits our roof,” Allen said. “Water passes through guttering, pipes, tanks, filters and taps before we drink, prepare food and wash in it.”

Allen said this presented opportunities for potential contaminants at every stage.

“It is therefore vital to plan and maintain the system as a whole,” he said. “This includes maintaining the cleanliness of your entire catchment. This means your roof, gutters and pipework, as well as maintaining the cleanliness of your tank.”

Allen said a water filtration system should be installed and the filters replaced regularly to prevent bacteria build up.

“Filtration is part of the bacteria-control process, and a full range of options are available for consideration,” he said.

He said Pristine Water Systems had developed a process called QUADCLEAN that leaves your tank water totally cleansed, sanitized, aerated and invigorated, wasting very little water in doing so.

“This process involves testing the water; vacuuming off sediment and sludge; filtering the water and using an oxygenating process to kill harmful  bacteria.”

Hazardous matter found in tanks can include organic sludge, silt and ash, animal droppings and even decaying carcasses.

Parasites (Giardia), Bacteria (E.Coli, Cryptosporidium) and insect larvae (mosquitoes, sandflies) can be present, potentially causing illness to family members and visitors.

“It makes sense to clean your tanks now while they have plenty of water in them rather than wait until levels are low,” said Allen. 

Incoming  water from the first storms of the season after a long dry period will stir up the settled sludge on the bottom of your tank contaminating your fresh rainwater.

“I also have had complaints from home owners after a water delivery that the water delivered was contaminated. But this is not generally the case at all. Water suppliers are not going to risk their livelihood by delivering substandard water. 

“The contamination occurs when the inflow of  water disturbs the settled sludge on the bottom of the tank.”

Allen said cleaning and sanitizing your tank now will prevent these problems occurring later in the year.

A complete inspection along with water correction options can be discussed with Allen to maximise this valuable resource.

• Contact Allen at Pristine Water Systems on 0404 302723, or check out the website at www.pristinewater.com.au.