A Taste of What's Inside
We’ve introduced potable water liners, explored the materials they’re made from, and why they’re essential for protecting stored water. So now is the perfect time to choose the perfect liner. In this chapter, we’ll guide you through more detailed points to consider when deciding on a potable water liner. We’ll explore everything from tank size and shape to your water source and intended use so you can make a confident choice. We’ll also consider the details of ANSI/NSF 61 certification, a critical standard for ensuring your liner is safe for contact with drinking water.
Let’s get started!
ANSI/NSF 61 Certification
When it comes to storing drinking water, safety is your top priority. You want to be absolutely sure that your liner won’t leach harmful chemicals into your precious supply. That’s where ANSI/NSF 61 certification comes in.
This nationally recognized standard, developed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and NSF International, sets strict criteria for the materials that come into contact with drinking water. It’s a rigorous quality check against potential contamination.
To earn ANSI/NSF 61 certification, liner materials are extensively tested to evaluate the levels of contaminants that might leach into the water. This testing covers everything from heavy metals to volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The certification process doesn’t end there. Continued certification mandates regular inspections and audits of manufacturing facilities to ensure ongoing compliance.
An ANSI/NSF 61 certified liner offers several benefits:
- Peace of Mind: Rest assured that your water is safe from harmful contaminants that could leach from the liner.
- Quality Assurance: The ANSI/NSF certification demonstrates that the liner meets stringent quality standards and has undergone rigorous testing.
BTL Liners is committed to providing only the highest quality potable water liners for storage. Our RPE liners are ANSI/NSF 61 certified so that you can have complete confidence in the safety and purity of your stored water.
Factors to Consider
In Chapter 8, we discussed various liner materials, and here, we’ve emphasized the importance of ANSI/NSF certification. But there are more critical details to consider:
Tank Type and Size
The type and size of your storage tank are important factors in your liner choice since many are designed for specific tank shapes and sizes. However, a large, rectangular concrete tank needs a different liner than a medium-sized cylindrical steel tank. A custom-fabricated liner tailored to your tank’s exact dimensions will provide a precise fit and optimal performance. Careful customization eliminates wrinkles, gaps, and potential weak points, simplifies maintenance, and minimizes the need for repairs.
Water Source and Quality
The source of your water and its quality can also influence your liner choice. If you’re collecting rainwater, you might need a liner with excellent UV resistance to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight. If you suspect your source water may contain certain chemicals or minerals, you’ll need a liner compatible with that type of exposure that won’t degrade or leach harmful substances into your water.
Intended Use
How you plan to use the stored water is another critical consideration. If the water is primarily for drinking, you’ll want to prioritize a liner with the highest safety standards, such as those made from RPE. If the water is intended for irrigation or livestock rather than human consumption, you have more flexibility, but you still need a durable and reliable liner.
Budget
Potable water liners come in various prices, and budget is usually an important concern. While choosing the least expensive option might be tempting, remember that a high-quality liner is an investment in your water supply’s long-term safety and quality. Be sure to factor in the expected lifespan of the liner and the potential costs of repairs or replacements when comparing prices.
Durability and Lifespan
Some liner materials, like RPE, are known for their exceptional durability and last for decades with proper care. Other less durable materials, especially those vulnerable to issues like UV exposure or thermal extremes, usually require more frequent maintenance and extensive repairs.
Tank Material Compatibility
Your liner must be compatible with your tank material to prevent corrosion or other undesirable interactions. For steel tanks, it’s essential to use a liner that won’t react with the metal or develop cracks that might let water seep through to the tank walls.
Plasticizers
If you’re concerned about plasticizers leaching into your water and the environment, choose a plasticizer-free liner material, such as RPE.
UV Resistance
Exposure to the sun’s rays can break down some liner materials, leading to cracks, leaks, and a reduced lifespan. If your storage tanks will be outdoors, look for a liner with high UV resistance to keep it in top shape.
Putting a Lid on It
An officially certified potable water liner is the best way to guarantee no hazardous chemicals transfer from your liner into your stored water. The other factors we’ve covered here – tank type and size, water source and quality, intended use, budget, and liner material properties – can guide you in selecting a liner that supports your plans.
Don’t let the liner be an afterthought in your water storage. Contact BTL Liners today to discuss your plans and discover how our high-quality, ANSI/NSF 61 certified potable water liners can protect your water and provide you with years of reliable service.
