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Cleaning a Water Trough
The water troughs gradually build up a layer of sludge at the bottom as well as green algae in the water. While not inherently harmful, there is a risk of a build up of bacteria so they should be cleaned regularly. See below for instructions.
To reduce the build up of sludge, please use a bucket to wash muddy tools or vegetables rather than directly in the trough.
Trough before cleaningOver time, the trough develops algae and a layer of sludge in the bottom | Switch off the water.Use a spanner to unbolt the cover over the ball valve. Tie the valve arm so it remains closed. | Remove the drain plugLocate the drain in the bottom corner. Remove the plug. You'll probably need a second spanner to hold the nut on the inside. |
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Close up of drain plug | Draining the troughAllow the water to drain. When it gets low enough, start using a bucket to remove some of the sludge. Getting the last inch of water and sludge out is probably the most time consuming part of the job. A stiff brush might make it easier. If you want to clean the algae from the sides of the trough you'll probably need a wire brush. | RefillingRefit the plug in the drain hole. Untie the ball valve and refit the cover. Allow the trough to refill |
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