Updated on: March 16, 2026

5 Tips to Avoid Purchasing a New Water Tank

5 Tips to Avoid Purchasing a New Water Tank

Knowing how to avoid purchasing a new water tank can save you a lot of money. In many cases, replacement is not the only solution. With the right maintenance, professional refurbishment and targeted repairs, existing tanks can continue operating safely and efficiently for years.

While some tanks will eventually require replacement, most issues can be resolved through maintenance, refurbishments or repairs. 

Here are our top five tips on how to avoid water tank replacements, including how to use our refurbishment and repairs services to save you money.

1. Tank Refurbishment

One of the best ways that you can avoid having to buy a new water tank is by using our tank refurbishment service. Our specialised service has been designed to bring your tanks from the worst conditions back to their optimum standards.

We believe that the first step you should take before completing a water tank replacement should be getting in touch with our team to find out whether we can refurbish your tank. This may include:

  • Surface preparation
  • Corrosion treatment
  • Cleaning
  • Structural strengthening 
  • Internal protective systems

We have found that refurbishing tanks can be a great cost-effective solution that can get your tanks up and running in no time, without the need for a replacement.

Discover common water tank issues and solutions in our maintenance guide for more tips on prolonging your tank’s life

2. Water Tank Repairs

Whilst repairs may seem similar to refurbishments, our water storage tank repair services are another great way of avoiding buying a new water tank. Targeted repairs can resolve structural issues before they develop into full system failure. We provide repair services for: 

Water tank repairs are, in fact, different to refurbishments. Tank refurbishments can range from general cleaning and rust removal. Whereas repairs can include:

  • Crack repairing
  • Corrosion removal 
  • Joint failures
  • Leaks

When identified early, most tanks can be repaired safely and effectively. Prompt repair work prevents escalation and significantly reduces the likelihood of full tank replacement.

In over 25 years of service, we have never come across a tank that we are unable to repair. To make the most of our water storage tank repair services, get in touch with our team today to enquire about a quotation.

3. Water Tank Lining

Internal lining is one of the most effective ways to protect a water tank and avoid long-term structural deterioration.

We are incredibly proud of our water tank lining here at COVAC. We have an expert team that specialise in the application of our amazing ACOTHANE DW coating to your water tanks. This coating is designed for potable water storage and creates a durable barrier between the tank substrate and stored water.

Benefits of professional tank lining include:

  • Protection against corrosion
  • Prevention of substrate degradation
  • Extended tank lifespan
  • Reduced risk of leaks
  • Support in controlling bacteria such as Legionella

Lining is perfect for avoiding tank replacements as it protects against the substrate in your tank causing long term, significant damage. Our lining has also been designed to protect against the growth of bacteria such as legionella in your tanks. This means that the lining not only maintains the structural integrity of your tanks, it also keeps the water in your tank fresh and clean.

4. Regular Tank Cleaning and Bacteria Testing

The importance of water tank cleaning cannot be understated. Maintaining your water tank through regular cleaning is the best way to avoid a total tank replacement. Regular cleaning removes sediment, debris and microbial growth that can accelerate corrosion and internal damage.

We suggest that you test the bacteria levels in your water every six months. You should also clean the inside of your tanks thoroughly between every six and 12 months, depending on the results of your bacteria tests. Cleaning your tank not only ensures you are keeping an eye on the potential need for repairs, but you are also preventing the growth of harmful bacteria.

For guidance on keeping your water tank clean and safe, check out our full guide on how to clean a water tank.

5. Don’t Ignore Replacement When Necessary

Whilst you should aim to avoid complete water tank replacements, sometimes you should not entirely rule them out. If your current water tank is beyond repair and refurbishment then sometimes the safest thing to do is to have a full tank replacement.

Need Advice on Your Water Tank?

At COVAC, we supply a great range of water tanks that would be perfect to replace your current system. Our tanks range from potable water tanks, drinking tanks and cooling towers to bunded tanks, hot well tanks and galvanised steel water tanks. This is not all we have to offer, we have many tanks that would be perfect replacements for your systems.

If you are unsure about the condition of your tank, contact our team at COVAC for a professional assessment. 

With over 25 years of industry experience in water tank refurbishment, repairs and lining, we provide compliant solutions for potable and non-potable water tanks across the UK.

Taking action early can save significant costs and extend the life of your existing water tank.

  • UKAS ISO 14001

    Cert No. 22946

  • UKAS ISO 14001

    Cert No. 22946