Yes, hot water tanks do need to be cleaned as part of maintaining a safe and compliant water system. For landlords, facilities managers, and business owners in the UK, keeping hot water storage tanks clean is not just best practice; it is a legal responsibility under HSE guidance and landlord compliance regulations.
At Green Water, we deliver professional hot water tank cleaning services across the UK, helping you stay safe and compliant with HSE ACOP L8 and current health and safety laws.
Why Hot Water Tank Cleaning Matters
Hot water systems can still be at risk of bacterial contamination, including Legionella, despite the higher temperatures. This is especially true if the water temperature drops or the system is not regularly maintained.
Over time, hot water tanks and cylinders can build up:
- Scale and sediment
- Rust or corrosion particles
- Biofilm, which can protect harmful bacteria
- Organic matter in the system is unsealed or poorly maintained
If these issues are left unchecked, the risk of Legionella spreading increases, potentially leading to Legionnaires’ disease. This can pose a serious health risk, particularly in residential blocks, healthcare settings, and public buildings.
HSE Guidance and Landlord Compliance
According to the Health and Safety Executive’s ACOP L8, landlords and duty holders are legally required to control the risk of Legionella in all types of water systems, including hot water storage tanks.
Landlords must:
- Complete a Legionella Risk Assessment
- Regularly inspect and clean water storage tanks
- Monitor temperatures and water flow
- Keep maintenance and inspection records
Neglecting these duties can result in legal penalties and put building occupants at risk. Green Water helps landlords and property owners meet these legal obligations through our expert water hygiene services.
How Often Should Hot Water Tanks Be Cleaned?
The frequency of hot water tank cleaning depends on the system, usage, and results of your risk assessment. However, we recommend:
- Cleaning hot water tanks and calorifiers at least once every 12 months
- Inspecting internal surfaces for corrosion and scale buildup annually
- Book a clean immediately if your risk assessment highlights contamination or stagnation
If a property has been vacant or the water system has not been used for a long period, the tank should be cleaned before it is brought back into use.
The Hot Water Tank Cleaning Process
Green Water follows a thorough and compliant process:
- System Isolation and Drain Down – Safely emptying the hot water tank
- Internal Inspection – Checking for scale, rust, and biofilm
- Manual Sediment Removal – Clearing all debris from inside the tank
- Chemical Cleaning and Disinfection – Using HSE-approved products
- System Refill and Testing – Ensuring the water is clean and safe
- Certification – Issuing a Chlorination Certificate for your records
We work around your schedule to minimise disruption, especially for occupied residential or commercial buildings.
Who Needs Hot Water Tank Cleaning?
Our services are ideal for:
- Landlords and letting agents
- Office blocks and shared workplaces
- Schools, universities, and nurseries
- Hospitals and care homes
- Hotels, leisure centres, and gyms
No matter the size of your building or the complexity of your water system, we can help ensure it remains safe and legally compliant.
Book a Hot Water Tank Clean with Green Water
Green Water provides reliable and fully compliant hot water tank cleaning across the UK. Whether you manage a small property or a large commercial site, we will ensure your water system remains clean, efficient, and safe.
Contact us today to request a free quote or book a service.
Stay compliant and protect your tenants with Green Water.
