All You Need to Know about Home Water Storage Containers
When the tap runs dry—whether it’s a burst main or a five-day freeze—you need more than bottled water in the pantry. Unfortunately water shortages are becoming more and more common all over the world. Current estimates indicate that over 4 billion people experience a water shortage scenario at least once every month. This is why it's essential to have a plan in place for an alternative water supply in the case of an emergency.
In Q1 2021 a brutal ice-and-wind storm slammed Texas, ripping down power lines and knocking out water-treatment plants.
Storm Uri, they called it.
Within 48 hours, almost half the state’s residents — roughly 14 million people — were under boil-water notices and, for days, many had no running taps at all. It took a week for pressure to stabilize, forcing families to queue for bottled water and even melt snow. The lesson is clear: reliable at-home storage isn’t optional — it’s the first line of defense when municipal systems fail.
One way to do this is by using water storage containers for home use. These residential water containers come in all different shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs perfectly.
What Are Water Storage Containers?
Water storage containers are an essential part of any water conservation strategy. There are many options on the market, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
Rugged food-grade HDPE tanks dominate home storage because they cost 30–50 % less than fiberglass yet last just as long surviving decades of UV. These are typically used for short-term water storage. Plastic tanks are generally less expensive than other water storage containers and more readily available to purchase.
From portable water bottles to large water tanks, there is a water storage container for every need. For instance, bulk steel water tanks are occasionally used in residential properties. These bulk containers have even more frequent use in commercial and industrial setups.
Portable water bottles are perfect for taking on the go, while large water tanks can store enough water for an entire family. Water storage containers can also be installed under the sink or in the basement. These types of water storage containers are typically connected to the home's water supply to be used in a power outage or water emergency.
Importance of Proper Home Water Storage
If you're faced with an unforeseen emergency like a natural disaster that cuts off water access for an extended period, it's crucial to have a backup plan. Storing your own supply is the best way to ensure that if the time comes, you have what you need. It’s important to store your water in the correct container and to purify it correctly to ensure you can use your supply when the need arises.
Although water does not expire as food does, harmful bacteria can develop inside. This usually happens if the water sits too long in the container without being used or properly cycled. Also, if the wrong vessel is chosen for the situation, your supply can be at risk. Choosing the right storage container is also important to keep your water supply safe. The right container can ensure you always have safe, drinkable water available when you need it.
Rural and WUI (wild-land/urban interface) insurers increasingly require a minimum of 1,000-gal standby fire protection water tank. Home rainwater tanks can double as that reserve, lowering premiums or keeping policies from being cancelled. Moreover, capturing roof runoff cuts peak flows, easing local street flooding and— in some cities—earns drainage-fee credits.
Home Water Storage Containers Are Growing in Popularity
It is becoming increasingly popular to ensure a readily available water supply during a natural disaster or other emergency. The norm is to use home water storage in such instances. Public water systems are typically reliable, but they can be overwhelmed by demand during a disaster. This leaves homeowners without access to water for days or weeks. Home water storage containers can provide a valuable backup in such a situation. They are available in various sizes and can be placed above or below ground.
Storage containers can be filled with water from multiple sources, including rainwater, wells, and municipal water supplies. In addition to providing peace of mind in an emergency, home water storage can also help reduce water bills by providing a water source for irrigation and other purposes. As water becomes increasingly scarce, home water storage is likely to become even more popular.
How to Choose the Right Water Storage Container
When it comes to water storage, there are a few factors to consider in order to choose the best container for your needs:
Capacity: First, you'll want to determine the capacity you'll need. Water tanks can range from 20 gallons to over 12,000 gallons, and which one is right for you will depend on your household size, how much water you typically use daily and for how long you would like your supply to last should the time come to use it. Choosing a water storage container that can hold at least a week's worth of water for your family in case of an emergency is wise. Get to know your households’ daily water usage here and make informed decisions about storage and conservation.
Location: Next, you'll want to think about where to store the water. If you have limited space, you may want to consider a compact container that can be snugged inside a closet. If you have more space, you can opt for a larger container that can be stored in the garage, basement or outside. The location of the home water tank will also depend upon how you plan to move and fill the tank to where it will be used.
Shape: Consider where the water will be stored, and the shape of the tank. Plastic water tanks are available in various sizes and shapes. Under sink models will generally be small, rectangular or oblong-shaped vessels. There are even bladder models that can be stored under a porch or in a low crawl space.
Material: Finally, you'll want to take into account the material of the water storage container. Price is often a factor when it comes to choosing the best material, but you’ll also want to consider the temperatures the tank will weather– for instance, plastic may not be ideal for a storage location in direct sun or heat, but they are typically the most affordable option. Regardless of your unique priorities, be sure to choose one that is approved for potable water.
When choosing a water storage container for home use, it's important to consider all these factors to find the best option for your needs.
Deconstructing Myths Concerning Water Storage Tanks for Homes
Myth 1: Blue barrels are always food-grade
Residential water tanks stamped HDPE #2 and marked NSF/ANSI 61 or FDA compliant are truly potable. Note that many surplus blue drums once held chemicals.
Myth 2: Plastic water tanks leach BPA after six months
Tank Depot’s potable-rated HDPE water tanks are BPA-free and lab-tested under NSF 61 to show non-detectable migration.
Myth 3: Metal water storage tanks rust and taint the water
Our 304/316 stainless steel models are passivated, molybdenum-rich, and algae-blocking. Simply put, they are built to stay corrosion-free for decades, even in salty air.
Tank Depot Gives You the Widest Selection of Home Water Storage Tanks
From 100-gal slimlines that slide through a doorway to 2,500-gal horizontal water tanks that ride on a pickup, Tank Depot stocks NSF-61-listed tanks in 14+ U.S. depots—so you skip freight delays. We have the ideal option for you, whether you need a small tank to store under your sink or a larger tank to keep in your garage. Contact us today for more information.
