Getting the plastic taste out of a water tank typically involves a thorough cleaning and flushing process using common household solutions like baking soda, vinegar, or a mild bleach solution, followed by extensive rinsing.
Understanding the Plastic Taste
A plastic taste in your water tank, often described as a chemical or artificial flavor, usually stems from new tanks or tanks that have sat unused for a while. The taste is primarily caused by plasticizers and other compounds leaching from the tank's material into the water, especially when exposed to heat. This phenomenon is common in RVs, boats, and even some household water storage systems.
Effective Methods to Remove Plastic Taste
Addressing the plastic taste requires more than just refilling the tank. It involves actively cleaning and neutralizing the compounds causing the off-flavor.
1. Initial Flushing and Cleaning
Always start with a comprehensive flush to remove any loose debris or concentrated stagnant water.
- Drain Completely: Empty the tank entirely through all outlets, including faucets and showerheads, until no more water comes out.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Fill the tank with fresh water, let it sit for a few minutes, then drain it completely again. Repeat this at least once. This helps dislodge any initial contaminants.
2. Common Cleaning Agents
Once the initial flush is done, introduce a cleaning agent to neutralize the plastic taste.
Baking Soda Solution
Baking soda is a mild abrasive and an excellent odor absorber, making it ideal for non-toxic cleaning.
- Preparation: For every 10 gallons of tank capacity, add about 1/4 cup of baking soda. You can pre-dissolve it in hot water before adding it to the tank for better dispersion.
- Application: Fill the tank completely with fresh water after adding the baking soda.
- Soak Time: Allow the solution to sit in the tank for at least 24 hours, or even up to a few days for a more stubborn taste.
- Flush: Drain the tank completely, then refill and drain with fresh water multiple times until all traces of baking soda are gone and the water tastes clean.
White Vinegar Solution
White vinegar is a natural acid that helps break down mineral deposits and neutralize odors.
- Preparation: Use a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water. For example, for a 40-gallon tank, use 8 gallons of vinegar.
- Application: Add the vinegar to the empty tank, then fill the rest with water.
- Soak Time: Let the solution sit for several hours (4-6 hours) or overnight.
- Flush: Drain completely. Rinse the tank by filling and draining with fresh water several times until the vinegar smell is gone.
Bleach (Chlorine) Solution
A mild bleach solution is effective for sanitizing and removing odors, but it must be used cautiously and followed by thorough rinsing. Always use unscented, regular household bleach (sodium hypochlorite) that is safe for potable water.
- Preparation: Use a solution of 1/4 cup of bleach per 15 gallons of water for sanitation and odor removal. For example, a 30-gallon tank would need 1/2 cup of bleach.
- Application: Add the bleach to the empty tank, then fill completely with water.
- Soak Time: Let the solution sit for at least 4 hours, but no more than 12 hours.
- Flush: Drain the tank completely. This is crucial: Flush the tank thoroughly with fresh water at least 3-4 times, ensuring no bleach smell or taste remains. Running water through all faucets is also important.
3. Advanced and Alternative Remedies
For more stubborn plastic tastes that persist after standard cleaning, some people find success with alternative aromatic methods. Filling the tank with water and adding a bottle of raspberry-flavored cordial or a generous amount of vanilla essence can help neutralize lingering odors. Allow this solution to sit for several hours or even overnight before thoroughly draining and flushing the tank multiple times with fresh water.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process (General)
Follow these steps for a comprehensive plastic taste removal:
- Empty the Tank: Drain all existing water from the tank.
- Add Cleaning Agent: Introduce your chosen cleaning solution (baking soda, vinegar, or bleach) into the tank.
- Fill with Water: Top off the tank with fresh water, ensuring the cleaning solution is well-mixed.
- Circulate (Optional): If possible, run some of the solution through all faucets and the hot water heater (if applicable) to clean the entire system.
- Soak: Let the solution sit for the recommended time (e.g., 24 hours for baking soda, 4-6 hours for vinegar, 4-12 hours for bleach).
- Drain Completely: Empty the entire tank through all outlets.
- Flush Repeatedly: Refill the tank with fresh water, drain, and repeat this process at least 3-4 times until no taste or smell of the cleaning agent remains.
- Test the Water: After the final flush, taste the water. If the plastic taste persists, repeat the process with your preferred cleaning agent.
Preventing Future Plastic Taste
- Regular Flushing: Periodically flush your water tank, especially if it sits unused for extended periods.
- Use Food-Grade Hoses: When filling your tank, always use a hose designed for potable water. Garden hoses can impart a rubbery or plastic taste.
- Proper Storage: If storing the tank empty, ensure it's clean and dry to prevent mold or mildew, which can also cause off-tastes.
- Consider Tank Material: When purchasing a new tank, research materials known for less leaching, such as certain types of polyethylene or stainless steel.
Summary of Cleaning Methods
| Method | Agent | Ratio (Approx.) | Soak Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baking Soda | Baking Soda | 1/4 cup per 10 gallons water | 24+ hours | Excellent odor absorber, non-toxic. |
| White Vinegar | White Vinegar | 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water | 4-6 hours (or overnight) | Natural acid, good for mineral deposits. |
| Bleach | Unscented Household Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite) | 1/4 cup per 15 gallons water | 4-12 hours | Sanitizes, requires thorough flushing. |
| Aromatic | Raspberry Cordial or Vanilla Essence | 1 bottle/generous amount to full tank | Several hours to overnight | For stubborn tastes, requires thorough flushing. |
By following these steps and regularly maintaining your water tank, you can ensure your stored water remains fresh and free from unpleasant plastic tastes.
