Almost every Lahore house stores water, usually in an underground tank that fills from the supply line and an overhead tank that feeds the taps. Both collect sediment, and an open or cracked tank lets in dust, insects and worse. A well-installed tank that is easy to clean is one of the simplest ways to keep household water clean.
What is included
| Service | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Overhead tank installation | Placing a plastic or concrete tank on a level base, inlet with float valve, outlet, overflow, drain-out valve and a secure lid |
| Underground tank connection | Inlet from supply line, suction pipe to the pump, manhole cover that seals |
| Pump and float switch | Fitting the motor and automatic switch so the overhead tank fills without overflowing |
| Tank cleaning | Draining, removing sludge, scrubbing walls and floor, disinfecting, rinsing and refilling |
| Repairs | Fixing cracked tanks, leaking valves, broken lids, overflow and float valves |
When you need it
- Building a new house or adding a floor
- Water that looks cloudy, smells, or leaves sediment in buckets
- Visible algae, insects or sludge inside the tank
- A cracked, leaking or sun-damaged plastic tank
- Moving into a house where you do not know when the tanks were last cleaned
- After a long period of supply cuts or a dirty supply episode
Step-by-step: tank cleaning
- Plan the timing. Use up most of the water first and arrange an alternative supply for a few hours.
- Switch off the pump and close the inlet.
- Drain the tank through the drain valve or by pumping out.
- Remove sludge from the floor and corners.
- Scrub walls, floor and lid with brushes, without using harsh detergents that leave residue.
- Disinfect using a method the cleaner explains to you, then rinse thoroughly.
- Check fittings while the tank is empty: float valve, outlet, overflow, lid seal.
- Refill and flush lines by running taps until the water is clear.
- Ask for photos of the tank before and after.
Step-by-step: tank installation
- Choose position and size with your plumber based on household use and roof load.
- Prepare a level base that can carry the full tank weight.
- Fix inlet, outlet, overflow and drain-out valves; route overflow away from walls.
- Fit the float valve and pump switch.
- Seal the lid and manholes so nothing can enter.
- Fill and check for leaks before connecting to the house.
What affects the cost
- Number and size of tanks, and whether they are overhead or underground
- Access: steep stairs, narrow manholes, tanks on high stands
- How much sludge has built up
- Whether disinfection, valve replacement or lid repair is included
- For installation: tank material, base work, pump and pipework
Prices vary with tank size and access, so ask for a written quote that states tank capacity, number of tanks and what is included.
Questions to ask the provider
- How will you disinfect, and how do you make sure no chemical remains?
- Will you clean the underground tank as well, and how do you work safely inside it?
- Will you check and replace float valves and lids if needed?
- Do you bring your own pump to drain the tank?
- Will you send before-and-after photos?
Red flags
- Washing only the walls without removing the sludge
- Using detergent or bleach without a proper rinse
- Sending one person alone into an underground tank with no ventilation or helper outside
- Leaving lids or manholes unsealed after cleaning
- Installing an overhead tank on a base that is not level or not strong enough
FAQs
How often should I clean my water tanks? Clean whenever water looks or smells off, and set a regular routine with your plumber. Houses with frequent sediment may need more frequent cleaning.
Is it safe to clean an underground tank myself? Underground tanks are confined spaces with poor air. Professional cleaners should work with ventilation and a person outside. Avoid entering one alone.
Which tank lasts longer, plastic or concrete? Both are common in Lahore. Plastic tanks are lighter and quick to install but should be shaded from sun; concrete tanks are built in place and need proper waterproofing. Ask your plumber which suits your roof and layout.
How do I get a water connection to fill my underground tank? In WASA areas, new water connections can be requested at e-Khidmat Markaz centres in Lahore (PITB); in private societies, ask the society office.