sterilising water tank

greenant
What I'm about to say may sound like I've lost my marbles but I do believe that red cordial when added to water will after a while sterilise it (kill bacteria). I dont think concentration levels are anything like what you'd use when making a drink, (imagine cooking the veges or having a shower in red cordial!) to the point where it wouldnt be noticed and whats more very cheap. I'm sure I'm going to cop abuse over this one but hey I dont mind taking the heat off Truckster for a while.

Gday
Bicarb soda a teaspoon or two in some water in the tank will do the trick. Flush it out with a few tankfulls of water afterwards to get the taiste out.
Andrewwheredayathinkwer mike?

Chlorine will also kill bacteria in water - it's the most commonly used anti bacterial treatment for pools and water supplies. However, if your tank is black plastic, and therefore the water is not exposed to light, bacteria will not grow. I've had my van for 25 years and simply top up the tank before a trip and the water is always excellent. Only problem I've ever had was after filling it using a new hose and the water tasted of plastic! The secret is no light - as in underground caves where you'll find crystal clear water.

Chlorine is definitely the way to go.
Although you may have a dark tank to prevent growth, it's possible the water you put in is contaminated with bacteria (not algae).
It can be very tricky getting the right concentration though.
You want a free residual of around 0.5 mg/L. Household bleaches (domestos etc) have a concentration of around 5%, that equates to 50 000 mg/L. Gives you an idea of the dilution factor.
If it's only to keep the dregs clean when not in use like you say it can't hurt to add a bit more (one squirt)

try miltons anti bacterial solutions it can be gottin from shopping centre. alls it is is very week chlorine.
i use it every now and again in my camelback bladder one cap for 3 litre is all i use. dont know if thats correct or not but it does the job.

Iodine is a bit extreme! Potassium Permanganate is the go (Condy's Crystals). Can also be used as a cheap method of sterilising unknown water supplies - add until colour just becomes perceptible in the water. Also good for horse's hoof infections!

Cheers