55-gallon (208 L) barrel
A food-grade barrel stores a lot of water in a small footprint. One barrel is about two weeks for a family of four.
It weighs over 200 kg full, so fill it where it will stay, on wood to keep it off concrete. You'll need a hand pump to get water out.
Full price review coming.
BULK STORAGE
Review coming
Good: Lots of water in a small footprint.
Watch for: Can't be moved full. Needs a pump to get water out.
See on Amazon.caTHE SPECS
Capacity: 208 L (55 gal)
Weight full: About 215 kg
Material: Food-grade HDPE, usually blue
Size: About 58 cm wide × 88 cm tall
Extras needed: Siphon or drum pump, bung wrench, water preserver
What I like
- Most water in the smallest floor space.
- Thick, UV-resistant plastic built to last for years.
- One barrel covers about 2 weeks for a family of four.
- Kits that include the pump and wrench are good value per litre.
What I don't like
- Can't be moved once full. Fill it where it will live.
- Getting water out requires a pump. A cheap one is slow.
- Emptying and cleaning it is a real chore.
- Too big for most apartments and some closets.
Things to consider
- Buy new food-grade barrels, or used ones that only held food (not chemicals).
- Set it on wood or a pallet, never directly on concrete, and away from gas, paint and fumes.
- Fill with a drinking-water-safe hose (the white ones), not a regular garden hose.
- Add water preserver or treat with unscented bleach and label the date. Rotate yearly if untreated.
- In an unheated garage it can freeze and crack. Leave space for expansion or store indoors.
BEST FOR
Homeowners with a basement or garage who want a deep supply beyond 2 weeks.