Omar Khalid
Water is an essential resource, and it is important to have a personal supply stored away in case of an emergency. Water can be stored in plastic containers, but it is important to ensure that the containers are food-grade plastic to prevent harmful chemicals from leaching into the water. Containers should also be thoroughly cleaned and sanitised with a bleach solution before being filled with water. Stored water should be replaced every six months to a year, and containers should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and chemicals such as gasoline, kerosene, and pesticides, as vapours can pass through plastic containers and contaminate the water.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Water type | Pure, treated water to prevent microbial growth |
| Container type | Food-grade plastic, glass, stainless steel |
| Container characteristics | Airtight, heavy, resistant to breakage, BPA-free, UV-resistant |
| Container size | 5-7 gallons, 55 gallons |
| Container placement | Not directly on concrete, away from sunlight, gasoline, pesticides, etc. |
| Water treatment | Bleach, chlorine, boiling |
| Water replacement | Every 6 months to 2 years |
| Water storage duration | Short-term, long-term |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing a container
When choosing a container to store water in, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to use food-grade containers to prevent harmful chemicals from leaching into the water. Examples of food-grade containers include store-bought bottled water, 2-litre soft drink bottles, juice bottles, 5-7 gallon water jugs, and containers made specifically for holding drinking water. These containers are typically made of sturdy plastic that is BPA-free and UV-resistant. They often have tight-fitting lids to prevent contamination and are stackable for easy storage. Glass bottles that have previously stored food items can also be used, as they are non-permeable to vapours and gases, but they may break easily and are not suitable for freezing.
Another option is to use stainless steel containers, although these cannot be treated with chlorine as it corrodes steel. If you are using plastic containers, it is important to avoid storing them near chemical products such as gasoline, kerosene, and pesticides, as vapours can pass through the plastic and contaminate the water. Similarly, avoid storing water on concrete floors, as the chemicals in the concrete can potentially contaminate the water. Instead, place the containers on wooden pallets, carpet, or flattened cardboard boxes.
The size, weight, ease of use, rotation, and portability of the container should also be considered. For emergency evacuation, it is recommended to store water in small containers that are easy to transport. Additionally, the container should have a tight-fitting lid to prevent contamination and be labelled with the words "drinking water" and the date the water was bottled or purchased.
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Container preparation
Choose the Right Containers
Select containers that are specifically designed for food and beverage storage. These containers are known as "food-grade" and are made of materials that won't leach harmful chemicals into the water. Common food-grade plastic containers include 2-liter soft drink bottles, juice bottles, and containers made for holding drinking water. You can also use plastic bottles or jugs that were previously used for beverages, as long as they are thoroughly cleaned and sanitised before refilling them with water.
Clean the Containers
Before using the containers for water storage, it is essential to clean them thoroughly. Wash the inside and outside of each container with soap and hot water. This step ensures that any dirt, debris, or residue is removed, reducing the risk of contamination.
Sanitize the Containers
After cleaning, sanitise the containers to eliminate any bacteria or potential sources of contamination. You can use a solution of unscented household bleach and water for this purpose. Prepare a solution by mixing one teaspoon of non-scented bleach with one quart of water. Close the container tightly and shake well, ensuring that the bleach solution comes into contact with all internal surfaces. Rinse the containers with clean water after sanitising.
Dry the Containers
Before filling the containers with water, make sure they are completely dry. This step helps prevent the growth of bacteria or mould, as moisture can create an ideal environment for their growth.
Label and Date the Containers
Once the containers are clean, dry, and sanitised, label them clearly with the words "drinking water" and the date you filled them. Labelling is essential, especially if you are storing water for the long term, as it helps you keep track of when the water should be replaced.
Store in a Suitable Location
Choose a storage location that is cool, dry, and dark. Avoid direct sunlight and sources of heat, as these can promote algae or mould growth, especially in clear containers. Also, keep the containers away from chemical products such as gasoline, kerosene, and pesticides. Vapours from these substances can penetrate plastic and contaminate the water.
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Water purification
Step 1: Source of Water
Start by identifying the source of your water. If you are using tap water, it is likely chlorinated and safe for storage without additional treatment. However, if your water comes from a well or an untreated source, you will need to disinfect it before storage.
Step 2: Disinfection
Disinfection is essential to prevent microbial growth and chemical contamination. If your water is not chlorinated, you can add household bleach (5% sodium hypochlorite). Use regular, unscented bleach, adding 1/4 teaspoon (16 drops) per gallon of cloudy water, or 1/8 teaspoon (8 drops) per gallon of clear water. Alternatively, you can use liquid chlorine bleach, adding 2 drops per gallon of water and letting it stand for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Container Preparation
Use only food-grade containers approved by the FDA for water storage. Avoid containers that previously held toxic substances, such as bleach bottles, as they may leach harmful chemicals. Plastic containers should be thick-walled and made of polyethylene plastic to minimize vapour absorption. Ensure the containers are thoroughly cleaned with dish soap and sanitized with a bleach solution (1 teaspoon bleach per quart of water). Rinse the containers well to remove any residual soap or bleach.
Step 4: Filling and Storage
Fill the containers to the top, leaving no air space, and seal them tightly. Store the containers in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from direct sunlight and sources of strong odours, such as gasoline, pesticides, fertilizers, and perfumed products. Vapours from these substances can permeate the plastic and contaminate the water.
Step 5: Rotation and Maintenance
Rotate your stored water regularly. Home-filled stored water should be changed annually, while commercially packaged water can be stored for about five years. Check on your supply every six months to ensure the containers are intact and the water quality is maintained.
By following these steps, you can effectively purify and store water in plastic containers, ensuring a safe and reliable source of water during emergencies or natural disasters.
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Storage location
When storing water in plastic containers, there are several factors to consider when choosing a storage location. Firstly, it is important to keep the water away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Sunlight and heat can damage plastic containers and promote the growth of algae and mould, especially in clear containers. Therefore, it is advisable to store water in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a basement or pantry.
Secondly, it is crucial to keep the stored water away from potential contaminants. Vapours from substances like gasoline, kerosene, pesticides, and other chemicals can penetrate plastic containers and contaminate the water. Hence, it is recommended to isolate the water storage area from such substances. Additionally, avoid placing water containers directly on concrete floors. While the claim that chemicals in concrete can contaminate water has been disputed, placing the containers on wooden pallets, flattened cardboard boxes, or carpets is still considered a safer option.
The storage location should also provide easy access to the water containers. In case of an emergency evacuation, it is advisable to store a 3-day supply of water in small containers near an exit. Regularly rotating your water supply is also important, so consider storing newer containers at the back and moving older ones to the front to ensure they are used first.
Lastly, the storage location should be secure and safe from potential leaks. Place the containers on a small platform or elevated surface to allow for air movement and to prevent moisture buildup. Ensure that the area is not prone to flooding or moisture accumulation, as this can damage the containers and affect water quality.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively choose a storage location that maintains the safety, quality, and accessibility of your stored water supply.
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Replacing stored water
When storing water, it's important to replace it regularly to prevent microbial growth and chemical contamination. The frequency with which you should replace stored water depends on various factors, including the source of the water, the type of container used, and the storage conditions. Here are some detailed guidelines for replacing stored water:
- Commercially Packaged Water—Commercially packaged water can be stored for about five years if it is unopened and stored properly. Check the expiration date, but know that this date may not apply if the water is stored indefinitely without being opened.
- Home-Filled Stored Water—For water that you fill and store yourself at home, it is generally recommended to replace it every six months. However, some sources suggest that you can extend the storage time by using treatment options or additives.
- Water Rotation—Instead of replacing all your stored water every six months, you can implement a rotation system. This involves replacing a portion of your stored water each month and using the oldest water first. This helps ensure that you always have fresh water on hand and reduces waste.
- Container Condition—Pay attention to the condition of your plastic containers. If they become cloudy, discoloured, scratched, or scuffed, replace them. Additionally, if you notice any leaks or holes in the containers, do not drink from them, and transfer the water to a new container if possible.
- Storage Conditions—Check your storage area regularly to ensure that the containers are not exposed to direct sunlight or excessive heat. Sunlight and heat can damage plastic containers and promote the growth of algae or mould. Also, ensure that the containers are stored away from toxic substances, such as gasoline or pesticides, to prevent chemical contamination.
- Water Quality—Regularly check the quality of your stored water. Look for any signs of cloudiness or contamination. If the water appears discoloured or contains debris, replace it. You can also use water testing kits to check for the presence of bacteria, protozoa, viruses, or chemicals.
- Emergency Preparedness—In the event of an emergency, such as a natural disaster or water supply interruption, prioritize replacing and using your stored water. Utilize the oldest water first and follow guidelines for purifying water if necessary. Remember that water from your water heater and piping can be used as an emergency source if needed.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to use food-grade plastic containers with tight-fitting lids. These containers are designed to hold food or water and will not transfer harmful chemicals into the water.
Wash the inside and outside of the containers with soap and hot water. Then, sanitize them with a solution of unscented household bleach and water. Rinse the containers thoroughly before filling them with water.
The recommended amount varies, but a good guideline is to store at least a three-day supply, or up to two weeks' worth of water if you have adequate storage space. The average person needs 1 gallon (4 liters) of water per day for drinking, food preparation, and hygiene.
Store the containers in a cool, dark, and dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep them off the floor and away from chemicals such as gasoline, kerosene, and pesticides, as vapors can penetrate plastic and contaminate the water.
If you are storing water from a private source, such as a well or spring, it is recommended to purify and replace the water every 6 to 12 months. For water from a public supply, commercially packaged water can be stored for about 5 years, while home-filled stored water should be replaced annually.
