1. Extreme Heat Boosts Bacterial Growth

Dubai experiences long months of high temperatures that often reach above 40°C. Water tanks, especially rooftop ones, absorb this heat throughout the day.

Warm water creates favorable conditions for bacteria like:

• E. coli
  
  
• Pseudomonas
  
  
• Legionella
  
  
• Salmonella
  
  

All these pathogens grow faster in warm environments. Without regular cleaning, tanks become a breeding ground for microorganisms affecting drinking, cooking, bathing, and washing water.

Heat also weakens chlorine residue in supplied water. As chlorine evaporates, the water loses its protective barrier and becomes more vulnerable to bacterial contamination.

2. High Humidity Encourages Mold and Biofilm

Dubai’s humidity rises significantly during summer. Humid conditions promote the growth of:

• Mold
  
  
• Mildew
  
  
• Fungal spores
  
  
• Biofilm layers on tank walls
  
  

Biofilm is especially harmful because it protects bacteria from disinfectants. Even if the water looks clear, invisible layers of biofilm keep harmful organisms alive.

Once biofilm forms, routine rinsing does not remove it. Professional mechanical cleaning becomes necessary.

3. Frequent Dust and Sand Infiltration Adds Heavy Sediment

Dust storms are common in Dubai because of its desert landscape. Even tightly sealed tanks can accumulate dust through:

• Small gaps in lids
  
  
• Vent openings
  
  
• Pipeline inlets
  
  

Dust and sand settle at the bottom of the tank, forming a layer of sediment. This sediment:

• Promotes microbial growth
  
  
• Makes water appear cloudy
  
  
• Causes an unpleasant smell
  
  
• Blocks pipes and reduces water pressure
  
  

Sediment buildup is one of the top reasons tanks require professional vacuum extraction and high pressure cleaning.

4. Intense Sunlight Causes Rapid Algae Growth

Dubai’s strong sunlight heats water tanks and stimulates algae formation. Sunlight penetrating through translucent or poorly insulated tank walls causes algae to thrive.

Algae affect water quality by altering:

• Taste
  
  
• Color
  
  
• Odor
  
  

Green patches inside the tank or slimy walls are clear indicators of algae buildup. Leaving algae untreated leads to biofilm formation and bacterial contamination.

5. Mineral Heavy Water Causes Faster Scaling

Dubai’s water supply often carries a high mineral load. When exposed to heat and still water, minerals settle and form hard scale on tank surfaces.

Scaling leads to:

• Reduced tank capacity
  
  
• Rough surfaces that trap bacteria
  
  
• Pipe blockages
  
  
• Faster sediment accumulation
  
  

Scaling cannot be removed with simple brushing. It requires professional descaling solutions and mechanical scrubbing.

6. Fluctuating Temperatures Cause Condensation

Temperature variations between day and night create moisture inside the tank. This internal condensation supports microbial growth.

Condensation is usually difficult to spot but contributes significantly to mold, algae, and sludge buildup. Tanks located on rooftops experience this more than ground tanks because they face extreme heat exposure.

7. Declining Water Quality During Hot Months

Many residents notice changes in water quality during peak summer due to climate stress on the water system. Common issues include:

• Murky water
  
  
• Foul odor
  
  
• Metallic taste
  
  
• Sudden pressure drops
  
  
• Visible particles
  
  

These can be directly linked to climate-driven contamination inside the tank.

8. Faster Chlorine Breakdown in Heat

Dubai Municipality provides pre-treated water containing chlorine. However, chlorine breaks down quickly in heat.

Without chlorine protection microorganisms multiply unchecked. This is one major reason tanks require chlorination during professional cleaning to restore disinfectant stability.

9. Outdoor Tank Placement Increases Exposure

Most buildings in Dubai position tanks outdoors on rooftops or terraces. This exposes them to direct sunlight, dust storms, humidity, and extreme heat.

Outdoor placement is unavoidable in many buildings, which makes scheduled cleaning every 4 to 6 months essential.