Management and Maintenance

Operation & Maintenance

Periodic maintenance of artificial recharge structures is essential because infiltration capacity reduces rapidly as a result of silting, chemical precipitation and accumulation of organic matter.

Tips for Maintenance of the RWH

• Always keep the surroundings of the tank clean and hygienic
• Remove algae from the roof tiles and asbestos sheets before the monsoon
• Drain the tank completely and clean the inside of the tank thoroughly before the monsoon
• Clean the water channels (gutters) often during rainy season and definitely before the first monsoon rain
• Avoid first 15 or 20 minutes of rainfall depending on the intensity of rain. Use the first flush arrangement to drain off this first rainwater.
• Change the filter media every rainy season
• Cover all inlet and outlet pipes with closely knit nylon net or fine cloth or cap during non-rainy season to avoid entry of insects, worms and mosquitoes
• Withdraw water from the system at the rate of 5 liters/head/day. This will ensure availability of water throughout the water scarcity period.
• Leakage or cracks in the storage tank should be immediately attended to. This will obviate the need for major repairs caused by propagation of cracks.
• Heavy loads should not be applied on the lid.
• Water should not be allowed to stagnate in the collection pit
• The tap should have lock system to prevent pilferage or wastage of water
• The filter material should be washed thoroughly before replacing in the filter bucket
• In coastal areas, the outer side of the tank may be painted with corrosion-resistant paint at least once in 3 years and in other areas lime (Calcium Carbonate) based whitewash may be applied regularly.