Whilst storage tanks are the most likely place for bacterial growth, the plumbing system is also a source of foul water. Most people think that an empty tank will reduce the problem, but in fact bacteria thrives in damp, dark places and not necessarily underwater.

Before installing a Plation Filter or Float we recommend chemical cleaning and disinfecting of your entire water system. This is particularly necessary for new systems, plumbing systems which have not been used for some time and those which are known to have become infected.

Once cleansed you should not have to disinfect again until you change the float after a season's use or your filter cartridge after the recommended capacity is reached. However, we do suggest, if possible, you monitor the quality of your fresh water supply regularly. In warmer climates you may wish to carry out a full system, tank and plumbing, disinfection annually.

Important - remove the filter cartridge from the filter casing and take out the Plation Floats from the tank to avoid any chemical contamination. The carbon filter will absorb the chlorine and limit the cleaning capacity of the whole of the system.

There are many products and methods available for such disinfection but you may use appropriate chlorine or household bleach diluted as recommended below.

Please note that following notes are guidelines. This deep cleaning method is a type approved and recommended by health professionals for such craft as leisure boats, barges, caravans and motor-homes but does not form any absolute guarantee. You should continue to regularly monitor the quality of water.

Firstly, turn off the hot water heater at the breaker. Do not turn it on again until the disinfection is complete.

1. Prepare a chlorine (bleach solution) - 100ml of household bleach in 100 litres of water
Pour the chlorine solution into the empty tank. Use one 5 Litres of solution for each 25 litres of tank capacity.

2. Fill the tank with fresh water and open each tap and drain cock until air is released and system is filled. Keep the pump running to maintain the system pressure.

3. Keep the solution in the system for at least 3 to 4 hours, but do not leave it any longer than 24 hours.

4. After at least 3 to 4 hours you should drain off the chlorine solution through the taps and drain cocks. Make sure there are no diffusion screens on the taps as these may block and take off the shower head separately for cleaning.

5. Refill the tank with fresh water and thoroughly flush the system through to take out any chlorine solution residues.

6. To make sure there is no residual chlorine taste or odour remaining place a solution of white vinegar and water ( 1 litre of vinegar to 5 litres of water). Allow that to circulate over a period three to fives days and flush out the system again.

The use of Plation floats and filters mean much less frequent cleaning and will minimise the amount of cleaning required as Plation purification floats last up to 2* years. Do not empty the tank when your boat or caravan is not in use as bacteria likes damp dark places to thrive in. Keep the floats in the tank to maintain maximum purification.

Tank sizes and systems vary. Make sure you have the right size of filter to suit your tank. - see guidance on recommended timescale of use.

Note: Aluminium and stainless steel tanks may be affected by chlorine but it is unlikely with such small amounts. If you are concerned consult the manufacturer of your particular tank or an appropriate professional.

*The normal working life of a PNS or PNK float is up to 1 year or 2 seasons. However, when used in heavily chlorinated water this may be reduced. You are advised to check the float at the beginning of the first season's use. If the Plation float has turned black then the silver has oxidised and is less affective and you should therefore replace it immediately.