Your New Water Tank Emits a Bad Odor? Here Are the Causes, Dangers, and Permanent Solutions

Introduction

Is your new water tank emitting an unpleasant odor even though it hasn't been used for long? Don't ignore this sign. Odors in water tanks are often a signal of chemical or biological contamination that can be bad for your health.

In this article, you will learn:

• The dangers of an odorous water tank.

• Common reasons why new tanks can smell.

• How to effectively treat and prevent odors.

• Why Hydropro Tanks are the best solution to this problem.

1. Dangers and Risks of Odorous Water Tanks

1.1. Lurking Health Problems

An odorous water tank indicates the presence of harmful chemical compounds or microbes. Water from such tanks can cause:

• Skin and eye irritation.

• Indigestion such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach pain.

• Allergic reactions to volatile substances from chemicals.

• Respiratory distress when chemical odors are inhaled constantly.

Strong odors often arise from the reaction of resin materials, fiberglass, or chemical solvents that have not dried completely from the factory process.

Read also:

Treating Yellow/Brown Water, Is it Caused by Iron or Organic?

1.2. Household Water Becomes Odorous and Unfit for Use

When the tank becomes the main source of water in the house, the odor will spread throughout the pipeline network. The result:

• Shower water tastes fishy or plastic.

• Cooking water tastes bitter or smells of chemicals.

• Clothes that are washed are not fresh despite detergent.

In the long run, this reduces family comfort and quality of life.

1.3. Bacteria and Algae Growth in the Tank

Moisture and organic compounds from chemical residues provide an ideal medium for the growth of anaerobic bacteria, molds, and algae.
Bacteria such as Sulfur-reducing bacteria produce H₂S gas that smells like rotten eggs, one of the most common causes of tank odors.

1.4. Plumbing System Damage

Water polluted with chemicals can cause:

• Corrosion of metal pipes.

• Damage to rubber seals.

• Decreased efficiency of the water pump.

Small problems like leaks can become major damages if the tank is left smelling for too long.

1.5. Decreased Tank Life

Chemical odors indicate an internal reaction that can erode the tank walls. Unstable resin materials will easily crack or leak within a few years, especially if exposed to direct sunlight.

2. Causes of New Water Tanks Smelling Bad

Knowing the main cause is important to make the solution more effective. Here are 5 main causes of smelly water tanks.

2.1. Residual Production Chemicals

FRP or plastic tanks go through a resin and catalyst coating stage. When the curing process is incomplete, chemicals such as styrene will be trapped and dissolved in the water, producing an odor like plastic or gasoline.

2.2. Irrelevant Chemical Usage

Certain manufacturers use non-food grade resins or coatings that are not safe for clean water. Such materials will emit volatile substances and produce a strong chemical odor, even after repeated washing.

2.3. Factory Test Water Not Cleaned

Some tanks are tested in factories using water that already contains chemical solvents or production process residues. When this water is not completely removed, odors can appear when the tank is refilled at home.

2.4. Unsanitary Installation Environment

Tanks placed near damp, drain or dusty areas can absorb odors from the surrounding environment. Tanks that have not been sealed are easily contaminated with odorous air.

2.5. Reaction of Water with Tank Materials

Water with a low pH (acid) can react with tank materials, especially if the tank does not have a protective anti-corrosive coating. This reaction produces a metallic or chemical odor that is difficult to remove.

Also read:

How to Solve Bad Taste and Odor Problems in Refill Water

3. Long-term Impact of Odorous Tank

Tank odor is not a temporary problem. If left untreated:

• The water gets stinkier and harder to remove.

• A slime layer develops, indicating microbial growth.

• Water becomes unfit for consumption, even after cooking.

• The tank deteriorates quickly due to repeated chemical reactions.

• And ultimately, maintenance costs increase dramatically.

4. How to recognize the source of water tank odor

Before taking action, you can do a simple check:

1. Smell the water directly from the tank and the faucet. If the odor is stronger in the tank, the source is there.

2. Check the color of the water. Yellow or greenish could indicate a chemical reaction or mildew.

3. Use a pH meter to see if the water is too acidic.

4. Look at the walls of the tank. If there is slime or white stains, bacteria have most likely grown.

5. Compare with the main water source (PDAM/well). If the original water has no odor, the tank is the culprit.

5. Solution to Odorous Water Tank

5.1. Clean the Tank Before Use

Use clean water and mild soap. Avoid bleach or acidic ingredients. Rinse repeatedly until the water is completely neutral with no chemical odor.

5.2. Use an Activated Charcoal Filter

Activated charcoal can absorb odor-causing organic compounds. Install a carbon filter at the outlet of the tank so that the water flowing into the house is odor-free.

5.3. Ventilate and Drain

Before filling with water, leave the tank open in the shade for 2-3 days so that volatile chemical compounds can disappear naturally.

5.4. Avoid Direct Exposure to Sunlight

UV rays can trigger algae growth and odor-causing microbes. Install the tank in the shade or use a UV protective coating.

5.5. Use Quality Tanks - Hydropro Tanks

The best solution to an odorous tank problem is to switch to a high-quality water tank like the Hydropro Tank.
These tanks are designed with food-grade FRP material and an anti-odor coating that is safe for clean water.
👉 Visit Hydropro products at water.co.id

6. Advantages of Hydropro Tanks as a Permanent Solution

6.1. Made of Food Grade Material

The inner lining of the Hydropro tank is food grade certified, safe for drinking water and does not release harmful chemical compounds.

6.2. Anti-Bacterial and Anti-odor

The smooth surface of the tank prevents the growth of bacteria and mildew. This technology ensures that the water remains fresh and odor-free even after long storage.

6.3. Anti-UV and Anti-Moisture System

Hydropro tanks have a UV-resistant outer layer that prevents overheating and chemical reactions that can cause odors.

6.4. Ergonomic Design, Easy to Clean

Hydropro is designed with a perfect drain and easy cleaning access, so no water is left at the bottom of the tank.

6.5. Certified and Tested

Hydropro has passed durability, pressure, and food safety tests according to water industry standards. Not only do you get a tank, but also long-term quality assurance.

Also read: How to Solve Bad Taste and Odor Problems in Refillable Water

7. Additional Tips to Keep the Tank Odorless

• Clean the tank at least twice a year.

• Use clean water with TDS below 300 ppm.

• Check the pipes regularly so that there is no back contamination.

• Install small air vents to prevent moisture buildup.

• Make sure the tank cover is tight to prevent insects from entering.

8. Recommendation: Replace Old Tank with Hydropro

If your tank continues to smell despite repeated cleaning, the material is permanently contaminated.
Replacing it with a Hydropro Tank is the best long-term solution.
Hydropro is not just a water container, but a hygienic water storage system that keeps water fresh, neutral and healthy.

9. Conclusion

An odorous water tank is no small matter - it's a sign of a chemical reaction or microbial contamination that is harmful to health.
From plastic, to fishy, to sulphurous odors, all can be resolved if you understand the cause and choose the right solution.

Hydropro tanks come with advanced technology that prevents odors, maintains cleanliness, and ensures the safety of your household water.
With food-grade, anti-UV, and anti-bacterial materials, Hydropro provides long-term peace of mind and the best water quality for your family.