Water tanks that haven't been properly cleaned in a long while can build up a thick and stubborn layer of crud on the bottom. While removing and steam cleaning the tank works well, there are things you can do before taking such drastic measures.

If you have an access plate in the top of your tank (or can add one), dump several inches of ice cubes into the empty tank. Add a little water to allow the ice to slide around, but not so much that the ice floats off the bottom of the tank. Take the boat out on a day with some wave action and let the ice slosh back and forth. The ice cubes should scour the bottom of the tank before melting.

You can then flush the tank until the sediment clears. If you have filters in your water system, remove the elements before flushing, or they will soon clog. Also, be sure to flush with good, clean water or you will be on your way to more problems.

- Paul Esterle