Keeping Mosquitoes out of your Water Tank
Mosquitoes love to breed in standing water whether that is 2 meters deep or down to as little as 2cm deep. Both inside and outside a water tank needs attention if mosquitoes are to be controlled and eliminated.
Adding Kerosene | Medicinal Paraffin to Your Water
One of the traditional ways to prevent mosquitoes breeding was to use a small amount of kerosene in your water tank. It was thought this was harmless but the World Health Organisation advises against it because of its toxicity, and it causes nasty side effects such as respiratory irritation and dermatitis.
Although it will prevent mosquito larvae from developing, its impact only lasts for a very short time. If you really need to use a chemical then the use of a small amount of medicinal paraffin is recommended.
Additional Ways to Keep Mosquitoes Out of Your Water Tank
There are numerous other ways you can prevent mosquitoes from breeding in and around your water tank(s).
- When you first set up your water tanks make sure all the inlet and outlet mechanisms are not accessible to mosquitoes. For example, the inlet, outlet and overflow mechanisms need to be covered with a fine but strong mesh. Regularly check that the mesh is sealed properly and not damaged and that any subsequent additional fittings are also appropriately screened with mesh.
- Check for any puddles that might arise from any possible leaks.
- Regularly clean your tanks and prevent the water in them from lying stagnant too long.
- Regularly clean your gutters and downpipes and ensure they are flushed occasionally.
- Keep your property around the tank clear of anything that could hold water.
Water Tank Outlet Fittings
All Our Steel Water Tanks Come with the following outlet fittings to help prevent Mosquitos
Mosquito-proof overflow
A 90mm or 100mm sized mosquito-proof overflow fitting at the top of the tank wall, directly under the lid.
Each water tank requires an overflow connection point installed at the top of the wall, directly under the lid. Water tanks with a capacity of 10,000 litres or less are fitted with a 90mm PVC corrugated overflow body. Larger tanks are fitted with a 100mm overflow body. A mosquito proof gauze is supplied with each overflow.
Rainwater Inlet
Rainwater enters the tank through the inlet on the lid of the water tank. Ensures no daylight enters the tank to prevent bacteria from thriving.
Typically the inlet fits a 400mm diameter strainer (other sizes include 300mm and 500mm). Select Water Tanks supplies a 400mm inlet with strainer and light guard as standard.
Protect Your Water and Keep Mosquitoes Out!
Ensure a safe, mosquito-free water tank with Select Water Tanks. Our tanks come equipped with mosquito-proof overflow fittings and fine mesh screens, keeping your water clean and your property pest-free. Choose a solution built to last—contact us today