Appendix 3 - Stormwater quality management plan

Operational Management and Maintenance Manual for Stormwater Quality Improvement Devices       CC-3668



2. RAINWATER REUSE TANKS
2.1.    Background
Rainwater reuse tanks provide benefits in terms of both water conservation and stormwater
management. Reuse of harvested roofwater reduces the volume of stormwater runoff entering
watercourses and associated stormwater pollutant loads.

2.2.    Inspection and Maintenance
Table 2.1 outlines the various inspection and maintenance tasks required for each aspect of the
rainwater resuse tanks. The inspection and maintenance tasks outlined in Table 2.1 are consistent with
those outlined in Rainwater Tanks (DERM, 2008) and should be implemented to ensure the
effectiveness of the rainwater reuse tanks. Inspection and maintenance of rainwater reuse tanks is the
responsibility of each individual home owner.

            Table 2.1 – Inspection and Maintenance Plan for Rainwater Reuse Tanks
                           Inspection and
        Aspect              Maintenance               Inspection and Maintenance Activities
                             Frequency
 First Flush Device     3 monthly               Check that it is working effectively and clean if
                                                necessary.
 Gutters                6 monthly               Regularly inspect the gutter and clean if necessary.
                                                Keeping gutters as clean as possible will enable them
                                                to drain freely and avoid contaminants entering the
                                                tank.
 Roof                   6 monthly               Check for accumulated debris including leaf and other
                                                plant material.      Remove all debris and prune
                                                overhanging branches.
 Tank inlets, insect-   6 monthly               If necessary these should be cleaned and repaired.
 proofing and leaf
 filters
 Tank and tank roof     6 monthly               Check structural integrity of the tank, including roof
                                                and access cover. Any holes or gaps should be
                                                repaired.
 Pipework               6 monthly               Check for structural integrity and that all pipework
                                                connections remain secure.
 Internal inspection    6 monthly               Check for evidence of access by animals, birds or
                                                insects, including the presence of mosquito larvae. If
                                                present, identify and close access points.
                        2 to 3 yearly           Check inside the tank for accumulated sediment. If
                                                sludge is covering the bottom of the tank, siphon it
                                                out or completely empty the tank.




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