Scope of work
- Storage volume review based on occupancy, utility supply reliability and any requirement for separate fire storage.
- Installation of sectional GRP or similar approved tanks on prepared bases with internal bracing, access ladders and covered vents.
- Transfer pumps from ground tanks to roof or intermediate tanks with level controls preventing dry running and overflow.
- Booster pump sets with variable speed drives maintaining stable pressure to top floors and villas.
- Pressure vessels, check valves and isolation valves allowing maintenance without full shutdown.
- Tank insulation and shading to reduce solar heat gain in roof tanks.
- Tank cleaning, disinfection and water quality testing before handover.
- Separate fire water storage where required, with level indication and suction arrangements coordinated with the fire pump room.
Systems we install
- GRP sectional water tanks with insulated panels
- Transfer pumps with duty/standby control
- Variable speed booster pump sets
- Level controllers and float switches
- Pressure vessels and expansion tanks
- UV or chlorination treatment units where specified
- Ultrasonic level sensors linked to the BMS
Codes, standards and approvals
- DEWA, SEWA, ADDC/AADC or Etihad WE requirements for water storage and backflow protection.
- Municipality public health requirements for potable water tanks and cleaning.
- UAE Fire & Life Safety Code for separation or combination of fire and domestic storage.
- Al Sa'fat and Estidama Pearl requirements on water metering and efficient use.
- Dubai Municipality and other municipalities' expectations for licensed periodic tank cleaning in residential and commercial buildings.
- ASHRAE and public health guidance on Legionella control in stored water, commonly used by UAE consultants to set turnover and temperature targets.
UAE site and climate challenges
- Roof tanks absorb intense solar heat, raising water temperature and promoting bacterial growth including Legionella, so insulated panels, shading and turnover management reduce temperature rise.
- Dust and sand can enter tanks through vents, overflows and access hatches during storms, so screened vents, gasketed covers and trapped overflows are fitted to protect potable water quality between cleaning visits.
- Pumps in hot plant rooms or on exposed roofs run hotter and wear faster in summer, so room ventilation, shading and motors rated for high ambient temperatures are specified to protect bearings and windings.
- Tanks fed by a utility supply that drops at peak hours need refill rates matched to demand, so inlet valve sizes and level settings are commissioned to refill overnight without overflowing or wasting water.
- Tanks fed by utility supply that drops at peak hours need refill rates matched to demand, so inlet valve sizes and level settings are commissioned to refill overnight without overflowing.
Decisions to make early
- Roof tanks with gravity supply versus booster systems from ground tanks, trading supply continuity during power cuts against roof structural load, space and the ability to control pressure precisely.
- GRP versus steel or concrete tanks, balancing purchase cost, durability, insulation performance, roof loading and how easily the internal surfaces can be cleaned and inspected over the building's life.
- Variable speed boosters versus fixed-speed pumps with pressure vessels: variable speed saves energy and keeps pressure steady at taps, while fixed-speed sets are cheaper and simpler for small villas.
- Separate or combined fire and domestic storage, depending on Civil Defence approval, available space and the need to keep domestic water turning over rather than standing as a fire reserve.
- Number of tank compartments: split tanks allow one half to be cleaned while the other supplies the building, avoiding water cuts during maintenance.
What you receive at handover
- Tank installation and leak test records
- Pump commissioning reports
- Disinfection certificates and water analysis
- Control panel wiring diagrams
- O&M manuals and cleaning schedule
- Tank level control and alarm test record
How we deliver: 8 stages
- 01Appointment & review
- 02Mobilisation & approvals
- 03Planning
- 04Engineering & shop drawings
- 05Procurement & execution
- 06Monitoring & reporting
- 07Quality inspection
- 08Testing, commissioning & handover
Why clients appoint Manolia
Manolia Group has delivered MEP and building contracts in the UAE since 2001: more than 100 projects and over AED 1.1 billion of completed work, including towers above 50 floors. Delivery follows an 8-stage process under a QMS structured to ISO 9001 requirements, with HSE controls and in-house engineering for shop drawings, coordination and commissioning.
Relevant Manolia projects
G+28 residential tower, Sharjah
Sharjah · MEP · Completed
Full MEP subcontract for a 28-storey tower.
Two Nahda residential towers, Sharjah
Al Nahda (Sharjah) · MEP · Completed
MEP for two towers of 23 and 24 typical floors over parking podiums.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Legionella a concern in UAE water tanks?
Water in roof tanks can warm significantly in summer, and stagnant warm water supports Legionella and other bacteria. Insulated tank panels, shading, sufficient turnover and periodic cleaning reduce risk. Manolia designs tank sizes and pipe routes to avoid stagnant zones and includes cleaning guidance in the O&M manual.
How often should water tanks be cleaned?
Cleaning frequency depends on municipality requirements and building type, and is often carried out periodically by licensed tank cleaning companies. Split tanks make cleaning easier without cutting supply. Manolia provides access hatches, ladders and drainage points to support cleaning. Cleaning records are typically retained by the building operator.
Do you install booster pumps for towers?
Yes. Booster pump sets have been part of Manolia's plumbing and MEP packages on Sharjah and Dubai towers, including buildings above 40 floors. Tall buildings need multiple pressure zones, PRVs and carefully commissioned variable speed pumps to keep pressure steady.
Which tank material is best?
GRP sectional tanks are common because they resist corrosion, assemble easily on roofs and can be insulated. Steel and concrete tanks are used for some large or underground storage. The choice depends on size, location, approvals and maintenance expectations. Manolia reviews options with the consultant early.
Can pumps be replaced without cutting water?
Yes, where duty and standby pumps with isolation valves exist. One pump is isolated and replaced while the other supplies the building. Manolia designs pump sets with valves and bypasses that make this possible. Standby pumps should be rotated regularly so they are ready when needed.