Introduction
Water is a fundamental resource necessary for our survival. Whether you’re camping, preparing for an emergency, or simply looking to store water for future use, it’s essential to know how to properly store it. But how long can you store water in a 55-gallon drum? In this article, we’ll explore some important factors to consider when storing water and provide you with valuable information to ensure your water stays safe and fresh.
Water is a vital resource for all forms of life. Humans can survive without food for weeks, but without water, we would only last a few days. Although our planet is mostly water, only a tiny fraction of it is available as fresh water that we can use.
With the world population continuing to grow, and more people moving to cities where they have less access to freshwater resources, it is more important than ever to find ways to conserve water. One way to do this is by storing water in 55-gallon drums.
55-gallon drums are a common size for storing water. They are big enough to store a large amount of water, but not so big that they are difficult to move or take up too much space. However, before you start filling up your drums with water, it is important to know how long you can safely store water in them.
The answer to this question depends on a few different factors, including the type of drum you are using and how you are storing the water in it. In general, you can expect to safely store drinking water in a 55-gallon drum for anywhere from 1-5 years.
The Right Drum
While any clean food-grade container can be used to store water, using the right type of container will make your water storage more effective and practical. It is important to have the right type of container so that your water will be safe to drink and will not spoil.
The best type of container for long-term water storage is a 55-gallon drum. These drums are made of food-grade plastic and are specifically designed for storing water. They are easy to clean and fill, and they stack well, so you can save space by storing multiple drums in one location.
When choosing a 55-gallon drum for water storage, it is important to select one that is made of food-grade plastic. BPA-free plastic is best, but you can also choose a drum made of HDPE (high-density polyethylene), which is also a safe option. Avoid drums made of lower-quality plastics, such as LDPE (low-density polyethylene) or PVC (polyvinyl chloride), as these may leach chemicals into the water over time.
It is also important to choose a drum that has been specifically designed for storing water. Do not use a used oil drum, as these can be difficult to clean properly and may still contain traces of oil or other contaminants that could make your stored water unsafe to drink. Choose a new drum that has been made specifically for storing water, and be sure to clean it thoroughly before using it.
Once you have selected the right type of 55-gallon drum, you can store your water in it for an indefinite period of time, as long as the drum remains sealed and free from contaminants. Be sure to label your drums with the date they were filled so you will know when it is time to rotate your stored water supply.
The Right Water
Water is often referred to as the “universal solvent” because it is capable of dissolving more substances than any other liquid. This means that when water is not clean, it has the potential to contaminate anything it comes into contact with.
For this reason, it is important to use only clean, fresh water for storage. The best water for storage is freshly drawn from a well or from city water that has been treated and filtered. If you must use water from a lake, river, or stream, be sure to boil it for at least five minutes to kill any harmful bacteria.
Once you have collected your clean water, you will need to store it in a safe container. The best containers for water storage are food-grade plastic or glass containers with tight-fitting lids. Avoid using containers that have been used to store toxic chemicals, as these can contaminate the water.
The Right Location
You can store water in a 55-gallon drum almost indefinitely if you take a few simple precautions. The most important thing is to choose the right location for your drum. It should be:
- A cool, dark place: An ideal location would be a basement or closet.
- Out of direct sunlight: Ultraviolet rays can degrade the quality of your stored water.
- Away from chemicals and fumes: Cleaning supplies, paint, and other household chemicals can contaminate your water if they’re stored too close to it.
Once you’ve chosen a suitable location, you can start to prepare your 55-gallon drum for storage. If it’s new, simply rinse it out with clean water to remove any residual manufacturing fluids. If it’s been used before, give it a thorough cleaning with soap and hot water. Rinse it several times to make sure all the soap is removed.
The Right Treatment
You can store water in a 55-gallon drum indefinitely with the right treatment. Water is one of the most vital survival supplies, and you should always have a reserve on hand in case of an emergency.
To treat water for storage, you will need to disinfect it to kill any harmful bacteria. This can be done by boiling the water for at least 1 minute, or by adding bleach.
To calculate the amount of bleach you will need to add, use this formula: 1 gallon of water = 4 drops of bleach. So, for a 55-gallon drum, you would need 220 drops of bleach. Be sure to stir the bleach into the water thoroughly so that it is evenly distributed.
Once the water is treated, you can store it in any clean container with a tight-fitting lid. Store your water in a cool, dark place to prevent it from deteriorating over time. While 55-gallon drums are an ideal option for long-term storage, you can also use smaller containers like milk jugs or soda bottles. Just be sure to mark the date that you treated the water on each container so that you know when to replace it.
What you Should Know About a Food-Grade Plastic Water Storage Barrel?
Water storage is an important aspect of emergency preparedness. Whether you live in an area with frequent natural disasters or just want to be ready for unexpected situations, having a supply of clean water is crucial. One option for water storage is a food-grade plastic water storage barrel. In this article, we will discuss what you should know about this type of container.
- First, let’s define what we mean by “food-grade” plastic. This term refers to plastic that is safe for food storage and consumption. It is made from materials that do not contain harmful chemicals and is manufactured in a way that meets strict safety standards. Plastic containers that are not food-grade may contain chemicals that can leach into the water or food stored inside, which can be harmful to your health.
- A food-grade plastic water storage barrel is designed specifically for storing water. These barrels are typically made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is a durable and safe plastic material. HDPE is non-toxic and resistant to chemicals, making it an ideal choice for storing water.
- When choosing a food-grade plastic water storage barrel, it’s important to look for one that is specifically designed for this purpose. Some barrels may be labeled as food-grade but are not intended for water storage. These barrels may not be watertight or may contain chemicals that can contaminate the water. Look for a barrel that is specifically labeled as a water storage container and meets FDA standards for food-grade plastic.
- Another factor to consider when choosing a food-grade plastic water storage barrel is its size. These barrels come in a range of sizes, from small 5-gallon containers to large 55-gallon drums. The size you choose will depend on your water storage needs and the amount of space you have available. Keep in mind that a full 55-gallon drum can weigh over 400 pounds, so make sure you have a sturdy and level surface to store it on.
Proper storage and maintenance of your food-grade plastic water storage barrel is also important. Before using the barrel, clean it thoroughly with soap and water. Rinse it several times to ensure there are no remaining soap residues. After filling the barrel with water, store it in a cool, dark place to prevent algae growth and bacterial contamination. It’s also a good idea to rotate your water supply every six months to ensure it stays fresh.
Selecting a Water Barrel for Long Term Water Storage
Water is one of the most important resources that we need for survival. While we often take it for granted, access to clean water can be disrupted in times of emergency or disaster. That’s why it’s important to have a reliable long-term water storage solution, and a water barrel is an excellent option.But with so many different types of water barrels available, how do you choose the right one? In this section, we’ll go over some important factors to consider when selecting a water barrel for long-term water storage.
- Capacity: The first thing to consider when selecting a water barrel is capacity. How much water do you need to store? This will depend on how many people are in your household, as well as how long you need to store water for. A good rule of thumb is to store at least one gallon of water per person per day, and to have a minimum of two weeks’ worth of water stored.
- Material: Water barrels come in a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and even concrete. Plastic barrels are the most common, as they are lightweight, durable, and affordable. However, they can be prone to cracking if not stored properly. Metal barrels are also durable, but can be prone to rusting over time. Concrete barrels are the most durable, but also the heaviest and most expensive.
- Durability: Speaking of durability, it’s important to choose a water barrel that will last for many years. Look for barrels that are made from high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the elements. You don’t want to invest in a water barrel only to have it break down after a few years.
- Ease of Use: Another important factor to consider is ease of use. How easy is it to fill and empty the barrel? Does it come with a spigot for easy access to the water? Is it easy to transport if you need to move it to a different location? These are all important considerations, especially if you need to use the water in an emergency situation.
- Cost: Finally, you’ll want to consider the cost of the water barrel. Prices can vary widely depending on the size and material of the barrel. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, keep in mind that this is an investment in your safety and well-being. It’s better to spend a little extra for a high-quality water barrel that will last for many years.
How to Properly Store Water in a 55-Gallon Drum?
Water is one of the most essential resources for survival, and having a reliable source of clean drinking water is crucial in emergency situations. If you are considering storing water for long-term use, a 55-gallon drum is an excellent option. However, proper storage is key for ensuring that the water remains safe and drinkable. In this article, we will go over some tips on how to properly store water in a 55-gallon drum.
Start With a Drum Made Specifically for Water Storage
When it comes to storing water, not all drums are created equal. It is essential to use a drum that is specifically designed for water storage. These drums are made from food-grade plastic, which means they are safe for storing drinking water. Avoid using drums that have previously contained other substances, as they may contaminate the water.
Clean the Inside of the Drum Before Adding Water
Before filling the drum with water, it is crucial to clean the inside thoroughly. Even if the drum is new, it could still have some dirt or debris inside. To clean the drum, rinse it out with hot, soapy water, and then rinse it with clean water. You can also use a solution of bleach and water to sanitize the drum. Mix one tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water, and then rinse the drum with the solution. Allow the drum to dry completely before adding water.
Use a Potable Hose to Fill the Drum With Clean Water
When filling the drum with water, it is important to use a potable hose. Potable hoses are specifically designed for drinking water and are free of contaminants. Before filling the drum, run the hose for a few minutes to flush out any debris or bacteria that may have accumulated. Fill the drum slowly to prevent splashing, and avoid overfilling the drum. Leave some space at the top of the drum for expansion.
Place the Drum in the Proper Place
After filling the drum with water, it is crucial to place it in the proper location. The ideal location is a cool, dry, and dark place that is away from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause the plastic to break down and release chemicals into the water. Avoid storing the drum near chemicals or other substances that could contaminate the water. If you are storing the drum outdoors, make sure it is protected from the elements and is elevated off the ground to prevent flooding.
FAQ’s
Q: How often should I change the water in my 55-gallon drum?
A: Depending on the quality of your water source and how much you use the stored water, you may need to change it as often as every six months or as seldom as every five years.
Q: What are the benefits of storing water in a 55-gallon drum?
A: Having a 55-gallon drum of water on hand ensures that you have a clean, safe supply of water in case of an emergency. It also allows you to have a backup supply for everyday use, such as gardening or washing the car.
Q: How do I know if the water in my 55-gallon drum is still safe to drink?
A: If you store your water in a clean, food-grade container and rotate it regularly, it should remain safe to drink for many years. If you are unsure, you can always have it tested by a professional.