Warnings on water tanks

WATER tank experts have warned of dangerous problems with some imported tanks as manufacturers begin to lay off staff due to a massive slump in orders.
Thousands of tanks across the state now have water in them after the recent rain and with more wet weather forecast, water tank industry officials say now is when potential problems with some tanks could emerge.

Any tanks that were hastily installed or mounted on improper surfaces could become unstable as they fill and begin to weigh hundreds of tonnes.

They also say the plastic used in some imported tanks is not suited to the harsh Queensland sun and could split.

There are also other potential problems with some imported poly (plastic) tanks from China, Thailand and India, according to the Association of Rotational Moulders, which represents poly rainwater tank manufacturers.

"If the material doesn't have the right additives, and is not thick enough to protect it from light, it could promote the growth of algae and that could affect water quality," said the association's chief executive officer, Leisa Donlan.

Lifestyle Tanks owner Arthur Sinclair said cheap, untested tanks and pumps had flooded the market in the rush to take advantage of council and government rebates.

"I would say 50 per cent of installations carried out on tanks in the past six months have the potential to fail," Mr Sinclair said.

"The pumps will fail, tanks will crack, they come away from the downpipes. We see a massive replacement market coming."

The warnings came as about seven Queensland water tank companies laid off about 100 staff in the past fortnight because of a slump in orders.

After $20 million in tanks was ordered by about 25,000 customers in the state's southeast in June alone, sales in July slumped by 75 per cent, manufacturers said.

They blame confusion over rebates, watering restrictions and waiting times for tanks.

There are now enough tanks around that some manufacturers say they can supply immediately, but

Ms Donlan said tank buyers should still do their research.

She said it was important to get a 10-year replacement warranty, but that could be difficult if the tank was manufactured overseas.

Ms Donlan and the Master Plumbers Association of Queensland have asked the State Government to ensure rebates are available only on tanks manufactured to Australian standards.

"Products which are not fit for the purpose can become a real health and building hazard," said Master Plumbers president Bob Kimlin.

Source : http://www.news.com.au/