How do I store the Water in my Barrels?

Here are the amounts of bleach that you should add to your water when you store it. Remember to ONLY use the original UNSCENTED COLOROX. (Bleach).

5 gallons: 1/2 tsp. bleach for clear water; 1 tsp.- for cloudy water
55 gallons- 2 TBLS. - for clear water; 4 TBLS.- for cloudy water

You can also purify water by boiling for 3-5 minutes at a rolling boil. For every 1000 feet in elevation add one minute. The time listed here is for an elevation of 1000 feet.

Do I Need to Treat Water?
Once you properly clean containers, fill them with potable, or safe, drinking water. All public water supplies are already treated and should be free of harmful bacteria. However, as an additional precaution, it is recommended that you add 5-7 drops, about 1/8 teaspoon, of chlorine bleach per gallon of water stored. This precaution protects you against any lingering organisms in storage containers that may have been inadvertently missed during the cleaning process.

Where to Store Water?
Clearly label all water containers “drinking water” with the current date. Store the water in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Do not store it near gasoline, kerosene, pesticides or similar substances. When potable water is properly stored, it should have an indefinite shelf life; however, it’s a good idea to use and replace the stored water every 6 - 12 months. Rotating water this way provides you with an opportunity to experiment and check the amount of stored water against what you require. It also serves as an additional precaution against bacteria or viruses growing in containers which may not have been thoroughly or properly cleaned and sanitized. If you have freezer space, storing some water in the freezer is a good idea. If you lose electricity, the frozen water will help keep foods in your freezer frozen until the power comes back on.

Remember: Don't fill water to the top of the barrel. You need to leave room for expansion from the heat and the cold.