Get Prepared: How to Use a 55 Gallon Drum for Water Storage
*All information in this post is my opinion and gathered through my own research. Please do your own research before following any information in this post. This is for information purposes only. Also consult your doctor before taking any supplements*
**This post contains affiliate links. I receive a commission from any purchases that are made. This in no way changes the price for you. I am paid directly from the manufacturer.**
Table of Contents
Water is a fundamental resource that we rely on for our everyday needs, from drinking to cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene. In emergency situations, having a long-term supply of water becomes even more critical, as access to clean water may be compromised.
That’s where water storage solutions, like the 55-gallon drum, come into play.
In this blog, we will explore the importance of long-term water storage, the role of 55-gallon drums in water storage, how to choose the right barrel, preparing the drum for water storage, techniques to disinfect stored water, strategic placement of the drum, the need to rotate water storage, and much more. Let’s dive in!

Understanding the Importance of Long-Term Water Storage
Ensuring a long-term water supply is vital, especially during emergency situations such as natural disasters, power outages, or water supply disruptions.
When clean water becomes scarce, having a well-prepared water storage system can help sustain you and your family until the situation stabilizes. Let’s explore the significance of long-term water storage in more detail.
Long term water storage is essential for emergency preparedness. By storing water in advance, you can have peace of mind knowing you have a reliable source of clean drinking water, even in the absence of tap water supply.
It is recommended to store at least one gallon of water per person per day for emergency use, with the storage period ranging from three days to two weeks, depending on the emergency.
In survival situations, long term water storage plays a crucial role. Whether you are camping, hiking, or facing a long-term emergency, having access to clean water is of utmost importance. The human body can only survive for a few days without water, making water storage a top priority.
Safeguarding your water supply with effective long term storage methods is essential. Water storage not only provides drinking water but also water for cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene, all of which are vital for the well-being of individuals and families in emergency situations.
By properly storing water, you can ensure its long term usability, even when the primary water source is compromised.
Understanding the importance of storing water for extended periods of time is the first step towards creating a well-prepared emergency water storage solution. Now, let’s delve into the role of 55-gallon drums in water storage.

The Role of 55-Gallon Drums in Water Storage
When it comes to long-term water storage, the 55-gallon drum has emerged as a popular choice for many individuals and families. These drums, also known as barrels, offer significant advantages when it comes to water storage.
Let’s explore the reasons why 55-gallon drums are the preferred container for water storage needs.
Firstly, the capacity of a 55-gallon drum allows for a substantial amount of water storage, making it suitable for both short-term and long-term emergency situations. With an average adult requiring about one gallon of water per day, a 55-gallon drum can provide water for an individual for well over a month, if necessary.
Secondly, the sturdy construction of the drum ensures the integrity of the water storage system. Made from durable materials, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), these drums are designed to withstand the rigors of long term storage, including the weight of the water inside, the elements, and potential impacts.
Furthermore, the design of the drum allows for easy handling and transport. Many 55-gallon drums come equipped with bung openings that can accommodate water hose fittings, making it convenient to fill, use, and empty the drum as needed.
Lastly, the affordability of 55-gallon drums makes them a cost-effective solution for long term water storage. Compared to other water storage options, such as water tanks, these drums are a much more budget-friendly choice, without compromising on quality and functionality.
Now that we understand the benefits of using 55-gallon drums for water storage, let’s move on to the next step of the process – choosing the right barrel.

Choosing the Right Barrel for Water Storage
Selecting the right barrel for water storage is essential to ensure the long term usability and safety of the water inside. With a multitude of options available, it is crucial to consider specific criteria when choosing a 55-gallon drum.
Let’s explore the factors you should keep in mind during the selection process.
Criteria for Selecting a 55-Gallon Drum:
- Material: Opt for barrels made from food-grade, BPA-free plastic, such as HDPE, to ensure the water’s safety and prevent leaching of harmful substances into the water.
- Sealing: Look for barrels with airtight bung openings and sealing gaskets to prevent the entry of contaminants, insects, or debris.
- Durability: Choose barrels made from thick, puncture-resistant plastic to withstand the weight of the water, potential impacts, and the storage environment.
- UV Resistance: Ensure the barrel is UV-resistant or store it in a location that avoids direct sunlight, as sunlight can degrade the plastic over time, leading to potential leaks or water spoilage.
- Size and Shape: Consider the available storage space and the intended use of the drum. Some barrels may have a narrower diameter, making them easier to fit through doorways or store in tight spaces.
By considering these criteria, you can select the most suitable barrel for your water storage needs. Now, let’s move on to the next step – preparing your 55-gallon drum for water storage.

Criteria for Selecting a 55-Gallon Drum
When choosing a 55-gallon drum for water storage, it is essential to consider important factors that will ensure its effectiveness in the long term. Evaluating key criteria is crucial in making an informed decision.
Look for important features that are specifically designed for water storage purposes. The best 55-gallon drum for water storage should meet specific criteria to guarantee its reliability and safety.
Factors such as the material used, durability, and ease of access should influence your choice. Ensure that the drum is suitable for storing potable water by using water purification methods such as liquid bleach or pool shock.
Additionally, consider using a stable compound like a piece of plywood underneath the drum to provide stability. Using a hand pump or a garden hose can make accessing the water inside the barrel easier.
Remember to properly clean the drum before use by rinsing it with a bit of dish soap and water. By thoroughly understanding the criteria for selecting a 55-gallon drum, you can confidently choose the best option for your water storage needs.

Preparing Your 55-Gallon Drum for Water Storage
Before filling your 55-gallon drum with water, it is crucial to clean, sanitize, and prepare the drum to ensure the water remains clean and fresh during storage. Let’s explore the essential steps involved in the preparation process.
Cleaning and sanitizing the drum:
- Start by rinsing the drum with clean water to remove any residue or debris inside. Use a hose or water source to thoroughly flush the drum, ensuring all visible dirt, dust, or particles are removed.
- Next, use a solution of dish soap and water, along with a long-handled brush, to scrub the inside of the drum, paying close attention to the bung openings and the bottom of the barrel. This step helps remove any remaining dirt, grease, or contaminants from the drum.
- Rinse the drum thoroughly with clean water once again, ensuring all soap residue is removed. This step is crucial, as soap residue can affect the taste and quality of the stored water.
- After rinsing, prepare a bleach solution by mixing 1 teaspoon of liquid bleach (containing 5-6% sodium hypochlorite) per gallon of clean water. Use this solution to sanitize the drum, ensuring all interior surfaces are well coated.
- Allow the bleach solution to remain inside the drum for at least 30 minutes, or longer if recommended by the bleach manufacturer, to effectively kill any remaining bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens.
- Once the sanitization process is complete, thoroughly rinse the drum with clean water, ensuring there is no bleach residue left inside the barrel. The water should be clear and free of any bleach smell.

Guidelines for filling the drum with water:
- Before filling the drum, ensure the bung openings are securely sealed to prevent any contamination during the filling process.
- Fill the drum with potable water from a clean, untreated source, such as tap water that has been treated with chlorine bleach, well water, or water from a reliable water supply source.
- Avoid using water from untreated sources, such as rivers, lakes, or ponds, as it may contain harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can cause waterborne illnesses.
- If tap water is the source of water, use chlorine bleach to treat the water before storage. Follow the guidelines provided by the bleach manufacturer for the correct bleach dosage, based on the water volume being treated.
- Once the drum is filled, secure the bung openings tightly to maintain the water’s integrity and prevent the entry of contaminants.
By following these cleaning, sanitizing, and water filling guidelines, you can ensure the drum is well-prepared for long term water storage. Now, let’s move on to the next step – techniques to disinfect stored water.

Techniques to Disinfect Stored Water
When storing water for long periods of time, it is crucial to disinfect the water to maintain its safety and potability. There are various techniques and chemicals available for water disinfection, but two of the most commonly used methods are utilizing bleach and calcium hypochlorite. Let’s explore these techniques in more detail.
Utilizing Bleach for Disinfection
Bleach, which contains sodium hypochlorite, is a widely available and cost-effective disinfectant solution that can effectively kill bacteria, viruses, and other harmful pathogens present in water. Here’s how you can use bleach to disinfect the water stored in your drum:
- Ensure the water inside the drum is clean and free of any visible contamination, such as debris, algae growth, or discoloration.
- Calculate the proper bleach dosage based on the water volume in the drum. The recommended bleach dosage for water disinfection is typically 8 drops of liquid bleach per gallon of water, or 1/8 teaspoon of liquid bleach per gallon of water, for clear water sources. If the water source is cloudy or suspected of contamination, double the bleach dosage.
- Mix the bleach solution well, ensuring the bleach is evenly distributed in the water.
- Pour the bleach solution into the drum, ensuring it is well-mixed with the water inside.
- Seal the drum tightly, preventing the entry of any contaminants, and let the bleach solution sit inside the drum for at least 30 minutes, or longer if recommended by the bleach manufacturer, to allow the chlorine to disinfect the water.
- After the disinfection period, the water inside the drum should have a slight chlorine odor, indicating the presence of chlorine, which helps ensure the water’s safety.
- To remove the chlorine taste, pour the water from one container to another multiple times, allowing the chlorine to evaporate. Alternatively, you can use activated carbon filters, available in water purification systems, to remove the chlorine taste and odor.
By utilizing bleach, you can effectively disinfect the water stored in your drum, ensuring its long term potability and safety. Now, let’s explore another method of water disinfection using calcium hypochlorite.

Using Calcium Hypochlorite for Disinfection
Calcium hypochlorite, also known as pool shock, is an effective water disinfectant that can kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens present in water storage drums. Here’s how you can use calcium hypochlorite to disinfect the water:
- Start by calculating the proper dosage of calcium hypochlorite based on the water volume in the drum. The recommended dosage of calcium hypochlorite for water disinfection is typically 1/4 teaspoon of calcium hypochlorite granules per gallon of water, or follow the guidelines provided by the pool shock manufacturer for water treatment.
- Dissolve the calculated amount of calcium hypochlorite in a small container of water, ensuring the granules are well mixed and dissolved.
- Slowly pour the dissolved calcium hypochlorite solution into the drum, ensuring it is well-distributed throughout the water inside.
- Seal the drum tightly, preventing the entry of any contaminants, and allow the solution to sit inside the drum for at least 30 minutes, or longer if recommended by the pool shock manufacturer, to allow the chlorine to disinfect the water.
- After the disinfection period, the water inside the drum should have a slight chlorine odor, indicating the presence of chlorine, which helps ensure the water’s safety.
- To remove the chlorine taste, pour the water from one container to another multiple times, allowing the chlorine to evaporate. Alternatively, you can use activated carbon filters, available in water purification systems, to remove the chlorine taste and odor.
By utilizing calcium hypochlorite, you can effectively disinfect the water stored in your drum, ensuring its long term potability and safety.
Now that we’ve explored the techniques of water disinfection, let’s move on to the strategic placement of your 55-gallon drum.

Strategic Placement of Your 55-Gallon Drum
The placement of your 55-gallon drum plays a significant role in the long term storage and preservation of water. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the storage location for your drum:
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Storage Location
- Stability: Ensure the storage location is stable, level, and capable of supporting the weight of the drum, especially when filled with water. Uneven or unstable surfaces may cause the drum to tip over, potentially damaging the barrel or compromising the water supply.
- Proximity to Water Source: Consider the proximity of the storage location to your water source, such as a tap, well, or water container, to make the filling process more convenient. This can save you time and effort, especially in emergency situations where water supply may be limited.
- Ventilation: Choose a storage location that is well-ventilated, as good airflow helps prevent the growth of bacteria, algae, or other contaminants. Avoid storing the drum in tightly enclosed spaces, such as basements, without proper ventilation.
- Accessibility: Evaluate the accessibility of the storage location, especially in emergency situations where quick access to water may be crucial. Consider the ease of reaching the drum, especially if the water supply is needed for drinking, cooking, or personal hygiene during emergency use.
- Security: Take into account the security of the storage location, especially in areas prone to theft or vandalism. Ensure the drum is stored in a secure place, preferably indoors, or use additional security measures, such as locks or surveillance, if necessary, to protect the water supply.
By considering these factors, you can strategically place your 55-gallon drum in a location that maximizes convenience, safety, and accessibility, ensuring the long term viability of your water supply.

Do You Need to Rotate Your Water Storage?
While water storage in 55-gallon drums can provide a long term solution, it is essential to regularly inspect the water inside the drum for any signs of contamination. Here are some guidelines to determine if water rotation is necessary:
- egularly inspect the water inside the drum for any signs of contamination, such as cloudiness, discoloration, unusual taste, or odor. If the water appears cloudy, smelly, or has algae growth, it may need to be rotated.
- onsider the shelf life of the water stored in the drum. While water does not technically expire, long term storage of water can result in the growth of bacteria and algae, affecting the water’s quality and potability. As a general guideline, water storage drums should be rotated every six months, especially if the water is intended for drinking purposes.
- f the water has been stored for an extended period, it is best to use it for non-drinking purposes, such as cleaning, watering plants, or flushing toilets, and replace it with fresh water for drinking and cooking.
- egularly monitoring the water inside the drum, practicing good water storage hygiene, and following the recommended rotation guidelines will help ensure the cleanest water supply during emergency use.

Conclusion
In conclusion, proper water storage is essential for emergency preparedness and ensuring a reliable water supply during times of scarcity. Investing in a 55-gallon drum for water storage offers numerous benefits, including durability, accessibility, and convenience.
When selecting a drum, consider factors such as material, sealability, and ease of cleaning. It is crucial to properly clean and sanitize the drum before filling it with water, and regularly disinfect the stored water to ensure its safety for consumption.
Additionally, carefully choose the location for placing your drum, considering factors like temperature, accessibility, and protection from contaminants. Lastly, while rotation of stored water may not always be necessary, it is recommended to maintain freshness and quality.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively utilize a 55-gallon drum for long-term water storage and have peace of mind in any water-related emergencies.

About The Author
My name is Robert, and those who know me know that I like to research and always be prepared the best I can for whatever life brings my way. This website was born out of putting those two things together. I am married with 3 children: a dog, 2 hamsters, 3 fish, and a gecko.
There is plenty of adventures and fun situations that happen at my house. We live in a rural area and like to enjoy lots of time with our immediate and extended family. My primary job is in the medical field which can be an adventure of its own at times.
I desire this website to be a place where you can come and find products and information that will help you be prepared for whatever life throws at you.
Thanks For Reading,
Robert
*All information in this post is my opinion and gathered through my own research. Please do your own research before following any information in this post. This is for information purposes only. Also consult your doctor before taking any supplements*
**This post contains affiliate links. I receive a commission from any purchases that are made. This in no way changes the price for you. I am paid directly from the manufacturer.**