What to Do If My Cistern Develops a Leak?

Assessing the Leak

First, turn off the water supply to the cistern and isolate the area to prevent water from spreading. Next, visually inspect the cistern to identify the source of the leak. Common issues include cracks in the concrete or damaged pipes. If you can’t find the source, consider using a leak detection method such as dye testing or acoustic emission testing. In a buried cistern, you may need to use a camera or sonde to inspect the interior.

Containing the Leak

To contain the leak, you’ll need to dig around the cistern to access the affected area. Use a containment bucket or a temporary liner to prevent water from spreading and contaminating the surrounding soil. If the leak is coming from a pipe, consider using a temporary patch or a clamp to stop the flow. Apply a patching compound to the affected area and let it dry before applying a new coat of sealant. For a buried cistern, you may need to excavate the entire cistern to access and repair the leak.

Repairing the Leak

Once you’ve contained the leak, repair the affected area as soon as possible. For cracks in the concrete, apply a concrete patching compound and let it dry before applying a new coat of sealant. For damaged pipes, replace the affected section with a new pipe and secure it with pipe clamps. Apply a new coat of sealant to the repaired area to ensure a watertight seal. If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, consider hiring a professional contractor with experience in cistern repair.