Long Term Water Storage: Complete Prepper Guide
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Long term water storage is one of the most important parts of emergency preparedness. Without a dependable supply of clean water, survival becomes nearly impossible after just a few days. In this guide, we cover the exact quantities you need, the best storage containers, water treatment methods, ideal storage conditions, maintenance schedules, and essential gear so you can create a reliable water reserve that will last through any crisis.
Why Long-Term Water Storage Matters
When disaster strikes, the tap can run dry without warning:
- Hurricanes can flood and contaminate reservoirs.
- Earthquakes can rupture pipelines.
- Power outages can shut down municipal pumps.
- Civil unrest can disrupt water treatment operations.
✅ Fact: After Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, residents were left without clean water for months. Some resorted to drinking from contaminated streams.
During the Flint, Michigan crisis, residents were without safe drinking water for years. History repeatedly demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining your own emergency water supply.
Related Reading: Ultimate Water Purification Guide – Learn how to make any water source safe to drink.
How Much Water Should You Store?
According to FEMA and the American Red Cross:
- Minimum: 1 gallon per person per day (½ gallon drinking, ½ for hygiene).
- Better: 2 gallons per person per day for comfort, cooking, and hygiene.
- Duration: At least 14 days stored; 30+ days for true readiness.
💡 Pro Tip: If you live in a hot climate, have kids, are pregnant, elderly, or anticipate high physical activity, increase storage by 50% or more.
Example Calculation:
Family of 4 × 2 gallons × 30 days = 240 gallons total.
Include additional water for pets and livestock. Dogs typically require 1 ounce per pound per day, and larger livestock can need 5-10 gallons daily.
Consider also water for cooking, sanitation, and cleaning, as this will significantly impact your daily usage.
Types of Water Storage Containers
Your container choice affects water safety and longevity.
🛢 Best Long-Term Storage Options:
1. 55-Gallon Food-Grade Barrel
- UV-resistant, BPA-free
- Stores large quantities
- Requires siphon or pump for access
- 🛒 Buy Here
2. Stackable 5–7 Gallon Containers
- Easier to move and manage
- Space-efficient
- Ideal for short-term emergency relocations
- 🛒 Buy Here
3. Water Bricks
- Stackable, portable, modular
- Ideal for apartments or limited spaces
- 🛒 Buy Here
Avoid:
- Milk jugs (they degrade quickly and harbor bacteria)
- Non-food-grade plastics (leach harmful chemicals)
- Containers previously used for chemicals or juices
Preparing & Sanitizing Containers
Even new containers need sanitization before use.
🧼 Sanitization Steps:
- Wash with hot, soapy water.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Sanitize using 1 teaspoon unscented bleach per quart of water.
- Shake container, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
- Allow the solution to stand for 30 seconds.
- Rinse well with clean water and air dry.
Regular sanitization prevents bacterial growth and contamination, extending the safe storage lifespan.
Water Treatment Before Storage
Treating water prior to storage enhances its safety over the long term.
✔️ Treatment Options:
- Bleach: Add 1/8 teaspoon (8 drops) per gallon. Wait 30 minutes before sealing.
- Water Preserver Concentrate: Keeps water potable for up to 5 years.
- Boiling: For collected or questionable water, boil 1–3 minutes, then cool before storage.
Refer to CDC guidelines for more detailed instructions.
Ideal Storage Conditions
Location significantly impacts water longevity.
✅ Optimal conditions:
- Temperature-controlled environment (ideally 50–70°F)
- Away from direct sunlight to prevent algae growth
- Elevated off the ground using pallets or shelving
- Away from chemicals, paints, fuels, or pesticides
Avoid storing water in attics, garages, or outdoor sheds where extreme temperature fluctuations are common. Proper storage preserves taste and prevents microbial contamination.
Rotation and Maintenance Schedule
Regularly rotate and inspect stored water.
🔄 Every 6–12 Months:
- Check containers for leaks, cracks, or bulging
- Inspect water clarity and odor
- Rotate water, using older supplies for non-drinking purposes like gardening
Clearly mark each container with fill dates to streamline the rotation process. Routine inspections ensure your water supply remains safe and potable.
Special Climate Considerations
Hot Climates
- Store extra water to account for higher consumption rates
- Use opaque containers to reduce algae growth
Cold Climates
- Insulate containers or store indoors
- Leave space to allow water expansion if freezing occurs
Climate considerations ensure your water remains accessible and safe year-round.
Advanced Water Storage Solutions
For dedicated preppers or long-term preparedness:
Rainwater Harvesting Systems
- Setup includes gutters, first-flush diverters, and large storage tanks
- Always filter and disinfect harvested rainwater
Underground or Above-ground Cisterns
- Capable of storing hundreds to thousands of gallons
- Ideal for rural or homestead properties
Gravity-Fed Systems
- Elevated tanks provide running water without electricity
Emergency Sources if Stored Supplies Run Low
Identify alternative water sources:
- Hot water heater (ensure power/gas shut-off before draining)
- Toilet tanks (if free of cleaners)
- Rain barrels and surface water (always purify before drinking)
Establishing backup sources ensures continuous availability in prolonged emergencies.
Water storage isn’t optional—it’s essential for survival. By proactively preparing and storing enough water correctly, you drastically improve your odds of enduring any disaster comfortably and safely. Start your water storage strategy today; future you will thank you.
