How to choose a tank liner for potable water

If drinking water is stored over a long period of time, it is often referred to as potable water. Potable water containers can be lined through a variety of methods, whether with epoxy coatings, metal or flexible polyethylene liners. 

Regardless of the liner material, all potable water liners must keep the drinking water in the tank safe. A good potable water liner will keep stored water from touching the container’s structure. It will also protect the container from damage related to corrosion and oxidation. Knowing the specific features of a reliable tank liner for potable water can help your company protect the integrity of its drinking water and save money in the long run.

How should you choose a tank liner for potable water? 

Since potable tanks hold drinking water, their liners must adhere to select standards in order for the water they store to be deemed safe to drink. At the minimum, your potable water tank liners should share the following features:

• Temperature resistance — Potable water tanks are often placed aboveground. As such, they are exposed to changes in the environment. A good potable tank liner should be able to resist ultraviolet rays as well as both hot and freezing temperatures, making it less likely to degrade over time. Conversely, if the potable tank liner cannot withstand changing temperatures, the liner may break down easily and may need to be replaced sooner than planned. In addition, a liner that deconstructs over time can leak chemicals into the drinking water, rendering it unsafe to drink. 

• NSF-61 certification — According to the EPA, all potable water tank liners need to have NSF-61 certification. This certification ensures that chemicals like ultraviolet stabilizers and polymers in the liner are safe to come into contact with drinking water. Without this certification, your potable water tank liner may be toxic and render your drinking water unsafe.
  
• Airtight durability — A potable tank liner should seal all gaps in its container and be completely waterproof. These features can prevent harmful growths, such as fungus, mold, and bacteria, from forming between the container and the water. A durable tank liner should require minimum repairs, protecting both the container and water from coming into contact. 

Our team at Witt Lining Systems can help you find potable liners that work for you

Do you need a potable water tank liner that is safe for both your stored water and your tank? Our team at Witt Lining Systems can customize a liner to the exact size of your tank and even install it for you on your schedule. Get in touch with us today to discover a flexible drop-in liner solution that fits your needs.