5 Year Water Storage Plan - Or More!

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10/8/20246 min read

5 Year Water Storage Plan: A Comprehensive Guide

Water is essential for survival, but access to clean and drinkable water can become limited in emergency situations or while living off the grid. Proper water storage ensures you have enough clean water when you need it. This guide will explain how much water is needed per adult, five potential water sources close to home, how to filter and purify water, and the best container types for storage, from small bottles to large 55-gallon drums.

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How Much Water Is Needed Per Adult?

The general recommendation for water storage is one gallon of water per person per day. This gallon covers both drinking and minimal hygiene needs. For drinking alone, an adult typically requires at least half a gallon per day, but this can increase in hot weather or during strenuous activities. For a more comprehensive approach, consider storing two weeks' worth of water per person, which amounts to 14 gallons per adult.

For example, a family of four should aim to store 56 gallons of water for a two-week period. If you are off-grid or preparing for long-term emergencies, increase this amount as much as space and resources allow.

Five Water Sources Close to or in Your Home

Rainwater Harvesting: Rain is an excellent water source, especially if you live in an area with regular rainfall. A rainwater collection system can include gutters, downspouts, and barrels to collect and store water. Make sure to filter and purify rainwater before drinking.
Wells: If your property has a well, you have direct access to groundwater. However, in a power outage, you may need a hand pump or solar-powered pump to access the water. It is essential to test and treat well water regularly to ensure it’s safe to drink.
Natural Water Bodies (Lakes, Rivers, Ponds): If there are lakes, streams, or ponds near your home, these can be valuable water sources. Always filter and purify this water before use, as it may contain contaminants such as bacteria, parasites, or chemicals.
Stored Water (Bottles, Drums, Tanks): You can store large quantities of water in advance. Use water-safe containers, such as food-grade plastic or stainless steel, and store them in cool, dark places to prevent algae growth.
Municipal Tap Water: In non-emergency times, municipal tap water is readily available. You can pre-fill containers and store them in case of an emergency. Always rotate stored tap water every 6-12 months, as chlorine can dissipate over time.

Filtering and Purifying Water

Filtration and purification are crucial steps to ensure water is safe to drink, especially when sourcing from rivers, lakes, or rainwater.

Water Filters: Water filters are designed to remove sediment, bacteria, protozoa, and some viruses. Options include portable water filters, like the Sawyer Mini or LifeStraw, or larger gravity-fed systems, such as the Berkey water filter. These systems work well for both short-term and long-term water filtering.
Boiling Water: Boiling is one of the simplest and most effective ways to purify water. Bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute (or three minutes at higher altitudes) to kill bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
Chemical Treatment: You can use water purification tablets (containing iodine or chlorine) or household bleach (unscented, regular bleach with 6-8% sodium hypochlorite). Add 8 drops of bleach per gallon of water, mix well, and let it sit for 30 minutes before use. If the water remains cloudy, add more bleach or filter it first.
Ultraviolet (UV) Purifiers: Devices like SteriPEN use UV light to kill pathogens in water. UV purifiers are quick and easy to use but require battery power.

Types of Water Storage Containers (Small to Large)

Choosing the right container is crucial to avoid contamination and ensure long-term water storage.

Small Containers (1-3 Gallons): These include food-grade plastic jugs, stainless steel bottles, or water bladders. Small containers are portable and easy to handle. If space is limited, these containers can be stored in cabinets, under beds, or in closets. Ensure they are sealed properly to prevent contamination.
5-Gallon Water Jugs: A popular choice for short-term storage, these jugs are available at most supermarkets. They are portable but can still store a significant amount of water. They often come with built-in handles for easier transportation. Ensure they are made of food-grade plastic to prevent chemical leaching.
Water Bricks (3.5 to 7 Gallons): Water bricks are stackable, modular containers that are great for maximizing space. Their compact size allows you to store water under beds or in closets, and they’re easier to transport compared to larger drums.
15-30 Gallon Drums: These medium-sized barrels are a good option if you need more storage but don’t have the space for a 55-gallon drum. They're ideal for storing water long-term in a garage, basement, or other cool, dark location. A hand pump can be used to access the water when needed.
55-Gallon Drums: For serious water storage, 55-gallon food-grade plastic drums are excellent. These large containers can hold enough water for a family for several weeks. Make sure to store them in a location that is out of direct sunlight to prevent algae growth. Since they are heavy when full, they should be placed in an area where they won’t need to be moved. Water can be accessed using a siphon pump.

Tips for Proper Water Storage

Use Food-Grade Containers: Always store water in food-grade containers that are BPA-free. These containers are designed to avoid chemical leaching and will keep your water safe to drink.
Keep Water Out of Sunlight: Store your water in a cool, dark place to prevent the growth of algae or bacteria. Sunlight can break down the plastic in containers and cause the water to develop an unpleasant taste or odor.
Rotate Water: Even stored water needs to be rotated regularly. If storing tap water, change it out every 6-12 months. Mark the date of storage on the containers for easy tracking.
Use Water Preservers: Adding water preservatives, such as chlorine dioxide, to your stored water can extend its shelf life up to 5 years. Follow the product’s directions to ensure proper usage.

How Long Can Water Last If Treated Properly?

When stored properly, water can last for an extended period, but its shelf life depends on factors such as container type, storage conditions, and whether the water has been treated or not. If water is treated and stored correctly, it can last for years, ensuring you have access to safe drinking water when needed.

Here are some key points on water longevity based on proper treatment and storage:

1. Untreated Tap Water

Untreated tap water stored in food-grade containers should generally be rotated every 6-12 months. Over time, chlorine and other disinfectants in tap water can dissipate, leading to potential bacterial growth. Although the water may still be safe to drink after this period, it is recommended to replace it to maintain freshness.

2. Treated Water with Preservatives

If you add water preservatives such as chlorine dioxide or a commercially available water treatment solution, the shelf life can be extended to 5 years or longer. These preservatives kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, keeping the water safe for long-term storage.

3. Boiled and Stored Water

Water that has been boiled to kill pathogens should also be stored in clean, food-grade containers. Once boiled, this water can last for up to 6-12 months if kept in cool, dark conditions. While boiling is effective at purifying water, it doesn’t protect against long-term contamination from external sources, so proper container sealing is crucial.

4. Rainwater or Natural Sources (Properly Filtered and Treated)

If you are harvesting rainwater or using natural water sources, after filtering and treating the water, it can last as long as treated tap water — up to 5 years with preservatives. However, be sure to filter out debris and treat it with chemicals or UV light before storage, as untreated water can harbor bacteria and other contaminants.

5. Commercially Bottled Water

Commercially bottled water is typically safe to drink indefinitely as long as it remains sealed and stored properly. However, most bottled water has a printed expiration date of 1-2 years. This is largely due to regulations and concerns about the plastic bottle affecting taste over time. It is still advisable to rotate and consume bottled water by this date for optimal taste and safety.

Factors That Extend Water Shelf Life

To maximize the lifespan of your stored water, consider these tips:

Use Airtight Containers: Ensure containers are tightly sealed to prevent contamination and reduce the risk of bacteria or algae growth.
Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Keep water containers away from direct sunlight and heat. Sunlight can promote the growth of microorganisms and break down plastic containers, reducing the water's shelf life.
Check for Contaminants Regularly: Periodically inspect your water storage for signs of contamination, including cloudiness or foul odor. If any containers show signs of contamination, replace the water and sanitize the container before refilling.

By treating water with preservatives and storing it properly, you can extend its shelf life significantly, ensuring a reliable supply of clean water for several years.

Conclusion

Proper water storage is essential for preparedness, whether you're living off-grid, preparing for emergencies, or ensuring access to clean water during unforeseen events. By understanding how much water is needed per person, identifying water sources close to home, filtering and purifying your water, and using the right storage containers, you can secure a reliable water supply for yourself and your family. Always be sure to keep water stored in clean, food-safe containers, and rotate your supply to maintain freshness.