Cleaning explained
How to prepare for a water tank cleaning
A short checklist to help the day of your tank or sump cleaning go smoothly, from storing water to clearing access to the tank.
2 min read
Service
Sump Cleaning
Many Sri Lankan homes and buildings store water in an underground or ground-level sump and pump it up to an overhead tank. Because the sump feeds everything above it, sediment and debris in the sump can travel on into the rest of the system. Sump cleaning removes that material at the source.
What the service involves
- Checking the sump cover, access opening and surrounding area
- Coordinating with the pump so it is not run dry
- Draining or drawing down the sump
- Removing sediment, silt and debris from the floor
- Cleaning internal surfaces and rinsing
- Reconnecting, refilling and restoring the pump
Our process
- 01
Assessment
We check the sump's size, depth, access opening and cover, and identify the pump and valves that need to be isolated.
- 02
Isolate the pump
The pump is switched off before the water level drops, so it cannot run dry while work is under way.
- 03
Drain and remove sediment
The sump is drained or drawn down and settled material is removed from the floor and corners.
- 04
Clean and rinse
Internal surfaces are cleaned, rinsed and the rinse water removed.
- 05
Restore
The sump is refilled, the pump is restored, and we point out any issues with the cover, walls or fittings.
Why the sump deserves attention
A sump sits below ground level, which makes it more exposed to dust, debris and surface water if the cover or surrounding area is not well sealed. It is also out of sight, so problems can go unnoticed for a long time.
Cleaning only the overhead tank while leaving a dirty sump underneath means sediment can be pumped straight back up. Where possible, it makes sense to clean the sump and the overhead tank together.
Working safely in a sump
Sumps are enclosed spaces with limited access and ventilation. Work inside them should only be done by people who are equipped and prepared for that environment. Please do not enter a sump yourself to clean it.
Before you book
- Locate the sump cover and make sure the area around it can be reached.
- Know where the pump switch or controller is.
- Tell us if the sump also feeds an overhead tank you would like cleaned.
- Plan for water supply being interrupted while the sump is empty.
Read our preparation guide for more detail.
Questions about sump cleaning
Should the sump and overhead tank be cleaned together?
Where a sump feeds an overhead tank, it usually makes sense to clean both on the same visit. If only the overhead tank is cleaned, sediment in the sump can be pumped straight back up.
How long will my water be off?
It depends on the tank's size, condition and access, and on the service. We confirm the expected interruption before work begins so you can store water for essential use.
What do I need to do before the cleaning?
Make sure the tank or sump can be reached safely, know where the main valve and any pump switch are, and store some water for drinking and essential use. Our preparation guide covers this in more detail.
Helpful guides
Tank maintenance
A simple water tank maintenance checklist
Easy checks you can do from outside the tank to keep it in good condition between professional cleans, and when to call for help.
2 min read
Book sump cleaning
Tell us about your property and tanks. We will review your request and contact you to confirm the details, the quotation and a date.