During the summer season, the water in the plastic water tank kept on the roof of the house starts boiling. Hands start burning as soon as the tap is turned on in the afternoon. In such a situation, people keep looking for all kinds of solutions to keep the water in the tank cool. To get rid of this problem, a home-made and very effective remedy is becoming quite popular nowadays. That remedy is to wrap aluminum foil paper on the water tank. But do you know what happens if you wrap aluminum foil paper on a water tank?
How does aluminum foil work?
According to the laws of physics, heat travels in three ways: conduction, convection and radiation. Direct sunlight falls on the water tanks placed on our rooftops in the form of radiation. Plastic tanks absorb this heat rapidly and the water inside starts boiling. When you wrap aluminum foil paper around the tank, it acts as a ‘reflector’. The shiny surface of aluminum reflects approximately 90 to 95% of the sun’s infrared rays and heat radiation back into the sky. Since the heat does not touch the surface of the tank, the plastic does not heat up and the water inside remains cool.
Main benefits of aluminum foil wrapping
Water remains cool: Despite strong sunlight and heat, the water in the tank does not boil. You can use this water for bathing or washing hands and face even in the afternoon.
The tank does not become weak: Due to continuous exposure to strong sunlight and ultraviolet rays, plastic tanks become weak and start cracking or breaking. Aluminum foil extends the life of the tank by protecting it from direct sunlight.
Cheap and sustainable solution: Kitchen foil paper or commercial aluminum insulation sheets are much cheaper than expensive insulation covers or cooling jackets. You can easily apply it yourself.
power saving: When the water in the tank remains normal, you will not need to refill the water by repeatedly running the motor to cool it, which will save both electricity and water.
correct way to apply
First of all, clean the outer surface of the tank thoroughly with a wet cloth to remove dust. After this, wipe it with a dry cloth and let it dry for some time. Cut long pieces of aluminum foil according to the height of the tank. Keep in mind that the foil is very thin, so it does not tear while handling it. Starting at the top of the tank, place the strip of foil down. Apply duct tape on all four corners and edges of the strip and fix it tightly to the tank. Similarly, cover the entire tank with foil one by one. When you glue the second strip, it should cover the edge of the first strip by at least 1 to 2 inches. Due to this, there will be no gap left in between and sunlight will not be able to penetrate.
SK Sharma is a content writer who writes on news, entertainment, and lifestyle topics. She has over four years of experience and is known for conveying information in simple and clear language.
