Knowing how to stop tank corrosion in concrete water tanks is essential. In recent years, concrete water tanks have become popular as they are a cheap and highly accessible alternative to steel water tanks. Although water tanks are strong and durable, they’re still susceptible to tank corrosion. So, in this article, we will talk you through what you can do to prevent tank corrosion in your concrete water tanks.
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What is WRAS Approval
Have you ever spotted that mysterious WRAS logo on plumbing products? Ensuring safe drinking water is crucial, and the WRAS logo plays a vital role.
Many people working with water retaining structures ask us if WRAS certification is crucial. The answer? Absolutely!
This article dives deep into the world of WRAS approval, answering all your burning questions and revealing its significance within the water supplies industry.
What Does WRAS Stand For?
WRAS stands for Water Regulation Advisory Scheme and is a standard set by UK water regulations and bylaws.
To become WRAS approved or certified, your product/service has to be tested by independent labs and water suppliers before being accepted by UK water suppliers. As WRAS regulations are here to stay it is important that you are aware of the rules and learn more about the WRAS regulatory specifics.
What Are The WRAS Approval Types
WRAS regulations are in place to safeguard water quality and prevent contamination within the UK’s public water supply. These regulations apply to any water retaining structure that receives water from the mains, including pipes, tanks and fittings. To ensure compliance, water fittings must meet specific quality standards and undergo rigorous testing.
Here’s a breakdown of the two main WRAS approval types:
WRAS Product Approval
This approval applies to complete products like boilers, valves and showers. These products undergo rigorous mechanical and quality testing to ensure:
Compliance with WRAS regulations: Products are rigorously tested to meet the strict standards set by WRAS.
Functional performance: Valves must operate smoothly, showers must deliver consistent water pressure and boilers must function efficiently.
Durability and longevity: Products are tested to withstand regular use and harsh water conditions.
When installing WRAS-approved products, it’s crucial to follow any specific installation instructions provided with the approval.
WRAS Material Approval
This approval focuses on non-metallic materials and components that come into contact with drinking water. Examples include rubber seals, gaskets, linings and coatings, such as Acothane DW coating, a coating we use. These materials undergo specific testing to ensure:
No water contamination: Materials are rigorously tested to ensure they don’t leach harmful chemicals or compromise water quality.
Compatibility with water systems: Materials must be compatible with various water conditions and not cause corrosion or deterioration.
Is WRAS Approval a Legal Requirement?
WRAS is not currently a legal requirement, but it is still a recommended standard that has become more significant in recent years.
Although WRAS regulations are highly important in the industry, the road to WRAS approval is a voluntary scheme. So even though you would expect manufacturers to have WRAS-approved products, they are under no legal obligation to provide WRAS-certified products.
When Do WRAS Regulations Apply?
The regulations apply to all properties and premises that receive public water supply and focus on passing water between the boundary of a building and the point of discharge.
How to Get Your Products and Materials WRAS Approved?
To get your products WRAS Approved, you should visit the Water Regulations Approval Scheme website.
You will need to complete an F2 application form directly with the WRAS. This form should be signed and dated and should list every material in contact with wholesome water.
You will then need to contact an accredited and WRAS-recognised test facility, who will complete testing and forward your application, and liaise on your behalf with WRAS.
How Long Does WRAS Approval Last?
WRAS Approval lasts for five years from the date the approval is granted. After this, you’ll need to get your product or material reassessed.
How to Recognise Whether a Product is WRAS Approved
When a product or service is WRAS certified, the manufacturer/service provider will be issued with a WRAS certification mark. This approval certificate is usually displayed on the manufacturer’s website. So it is clear to recognise when a company is WRAS-approved.
You can also visit the WRAS Approvals directory to see a list of approved products.
What Are The Benefits of Choosing WRAS-Approved Products?
By opting for WRAS-approved products, you gain:
- Unmatched Safety: The WRAS certification assures the product won’t leach harmful chemicals or compromise your drinking water quality.
- Reduced Risk: Minimise the risk of water contamination, from diseases such as Legionella.
- Compliance: WRAS approval ensures adherence to high-quality standards, potentially preventing legal or insurance complications.
- Long-term savings: The quality of WRAS-approved products can help in the long run with issues such as leaks, replacements and repairs caused by low-quality, non-compliant materials. This not only saves money but also prolongs the life of your product.
COVAC’s Commitment To WRAS Approval
We take pride in offering only WRAS-approved products and services. Look for the WRAS mark on our service pages, guaranteeing the highest quality and safety standards.
You can rest assured that our service is proven against relevant rules and regulations. Visit our tank lining services page today to find out more information on how we operate or contact us for a quote on WRAS-approved tank lining.
Why You Should Choose Water Tank Relining Over Replacement
Choosing between tank relining and replacement can significantly impact your finances. Opting for a new water-retaining structure without understanding the benefits of relining may lead to unnecessary expenses.
This guide explains why tank relining is often the better choice. Many property owners believe their water tanks are beyond repair, but at COVAC, we’ve successfully repaired and relined numerous tanks that seemed to have reached the end of their lifespan.
As you read this article, you’ll discover the advantages of relining and how it can save you money while ensuring your liquid-retaining structure remains functional.
Continue reading “Why You Should Choose Water Tank Relining Over Replacement”The Difference Between Potable and Non Potable Water
When it comes to water tanks and the water they store, people do not often know the difference between potable and non potable water. Those that are new to water retaining structures may not have any or very little knowledge on this. However, for the usage of water, it is important that you know how the two water types differ. In this blog article, we will talk you through the uses of both potable and non-potable water so you can learn the difference between the two water types.
Continue reading “The Difference Between Potable and Non Potable Water”How to Prevent Water Tank Corrosion
Corrosion is a common problem in all water tanks as they become prone to rust and decay due to the heavy long term use of the structures. However, water tank corrosion is an issue that can be prevented and reduced so your structure can continue to function properly. In this article we will talk you through how to prevent water tank corrosion, so get ready to note down how to stop your structures from corroding.
Continue reading “How to Prevent Water Tank Corrosion”The Old Bailey – Project 1663 Completed March 2018
Here at COVAC, we are proud to have been involved in upgrading steel, Braithwaite, Sectional, and Potable water storage tanks, located within the Plant Room of The Old Bailey. The Old Bailey is the colloquial name of The Central Criminal Court of England and Wales, located in London.
Continue reading “The Old Bailey – Project 1663 Completed March 2018”What To Do If You Have A Leaking Water Tank In 3 Steps
If you think you might have a leaking water tank, this article will tell you what to do about it. Water tanks are used in various sectors for a range of purposes, generally without issue. However, the chance that your water tank could become faulty or damaged isn’t zero. If you fail to notice water tank corrosion, in the form of steel deterioration, failed mastic between the joints in a GRP tank, or cracked concrete at the base, you may notice that your water tank is leaking. These possible causes can result in the expansion of a vulnerability that could create a very large leak.
We at COVAC have compiled a chronological list of suggestions that will help you with your leaking water tank.
Continue reading “What To Do If You Have A Leaking Water Tank In 3 Steps”Reasons To Consider Water Tank Lining
To avoid water tank damage, you should consider investing in water tank lining. In a consumerist society, we feel more inclined to replace a damaged or broken item, regardless of its worth, rather than attempting to fix it. Water tanks are incredibly efficient features for any home or business setting. But they do naturally experience some deterioration with time. Water tank lining can slow the rate of corrosion, which is why it is so important to consider.
This article will elaborate on the reasons you should consider water tank lining.
How To Clean A Water Tank
If you’re asking yourself how to clean a water tank, you’ve come to the right place. Water storage tanks are essential to preserving water for distribution networks, domestic use, or commercial purposes. The water you store should be kept in the best conditions at all times. Especially if you use your tank for potable water storage.
Many things can happen to your water tank that compromises the quality of the water inside. So, if your water tank needs a good cleaning, this article will tell you how to clean a water tank.
Continue reading “How To Clean A Water Tank”Why You Should Invest In Water Tank Lining
Here at COVAC, we know everything there is to know about water tank lining and the benefits it can bestow upon your water tank. Part of the natural life cycle of water tanks, especially steel water tanks, is deterioration and rust because of constant exposure to oxygen, water, and minerals. Water tank lining helps to extend the life of your water tank, and this article will tell you how.
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