Where and How to Store Water for Long-Term Use
The time has come to place your water storage in its storage location.
Storage Location
You should have already selected your storage location with an eye on storage conditions, a place that is cool, dark, and dry; has a temperature between 50°F and 70°F; and is away from pesticides. Consider choosing more than one location to diversify risk in case one area of your home becomes compromised.
Storing in the Garage
Like many people, you may not really have a choice but to store larger quantities of water in your garage. If this is you, here are things you can do to minimize light, direct light, and temperature fluctuations. This applies to 5-gallon containers all the way up to large size drums and tanks.
Water Storage
Block direct sunlight
Keeping water storage out of direct sunlight is a must if you want to keep it useable long-term.
- Choose a location that does not have direct sun.
- Use existing cabinets with doors that already block the sun.
- If you are using open shelving, drape your storage with some type of thick cover. More on this below.
- Remember: Minimizing sunlight exposure is critical to maintaining water quality.
Keep stored water off the ground
The goal is to elevate all water containers at least a few inches off the ground.
- For 5-to-15-gallon containers
- Store them in existing cabinets or on built elevated shelving/stands.
- For 50-gallon and 55-gallon drums
- Build a raised platform using 2x4s or similar materials.
Water Storage
Create the platform
Decide the amount of space that will be required to store your drums. Then, purchase and assemble your raised platform (using 2x4s or another sturdy material). Put your drums in place before you fill them with water.
Accessories needed: bung wrench & siphon hose
TIPS
Protect your privacy
- Cover the storage area with 3.5 mils thick black sheeting.
- Secure this plastic with thumbtacks or wood staples.
- Shore up the attachment areas first with heavy-duty tape first so tacks or staples don’t rip the plastic.
Know how to siphon water
- The siphon hose will slop downward into a catching container.
- Insert the siphon valve end into the barrel and the plastic part into the catching container.
- Gently lift and lower the hose until water begins to flow—this should take only a few seconds.
Water Storage
How to Rotate Long-Term Water Storage
Rotating your stored water at the appropriate times is key to keeping your supply fresh and safe. Set a schedule based on your treatment method—rotate every 6 months or every 5 years if you have used a water preserver. Using the FIFO method (First In, First Out) will help you easily track and rotate the oldest containers first.
Water Container Inspections
Water itself does not expire, but even food-grade containers that you store water in can degrade over time. Keep your eye on the containers and check them periodically for:
- signs of damage
- leaks
- contamination
Learn more about long-term water rotation.
Water Storage
So, you’ve inspected your water supply and noticed signs of damage or leakage—that container needs to be replaced. But what about internal contamination that isn’t visible from the outside? Chances are, your water is safe, but a spot check is a smart precaution. Here’s how to identify contamination and ensure your stored water remains drinkable when you need it most.
Signs of Contamination
Start your spot check by opening a container, but work quickly—keeping the lid off too long can introduce contaminants. If your water exhibits any of the following signs, it is no longer safe to drink and should be pulled from storage:
Unusual Odor: A strong, unpleasant, or chemical-like smell.
Cloudy or Discolored Appearance: Water should always be clear—murkiness, floating particles, or tinting indicates contamination.
Slimy or Film-Like Texture: If the inside of the container or the water itself feels slimy, bacteria or algae may be present.
Visible Mold or Greenish Algae Growth: Any mold, algae, or debris makes the water unsafe.
Metallic or Bitter Taste: A strange or harsh taste may signal chemical leaching or microbial contamination.
Pull and Replace
If any signs of contamination are found:
- Remove the water from storage immediately.
- Inspect the container itself—if it’s in good condition (no cracks, warping, or deterioration), clean, sanitize, and refill it with fresh water.
- Label the container with a new rotation date and return it to storage.
- If the container is damaged or unusable, purchase a replacement to ensure safe storage.
Check All Other Containers
If one container shows contamination, it’s best to visually inspect all others following the same procedure. Even if signs of spoilage aren’t immediately visible, a routine check helps prevent future issues before they escalate.