55 Gallon Water Storage Barrel

Use Cases & Storage Guidelines

The 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel is designed to provide substantial capacity for emergency preparedness, disaster planning, and bulk water storage. Because a full barrel is extremely heavy, select its permanent storage location before filling.

Recommended Storage Conditions

• Choose a suitable location before filling: A full 55-gallon barrel can weigh approximately 459 lbs. Once filled, it should not be moved without appropriate 55-gallon drum-handling equipment.
• Protect from direct sunlight: Store indoors or in a shaded location whenever possible. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can contribute to plastic degradation over time.
• Use a cool, stable environment: Avoid unnecessary exposure to excessive heat and temperature fluctuations.
• Keep away from chemicals and contaminants: Store the barrel away from fuel, solvents, pesticides, paints, and other chemicals that could contaminate the storage environment.
• Keep the storage area clean: Protect the barrel from dirt, dust, debris, and other potential sources of contamination. A suitable barrel cover may provide additional protection when appropriate.
• Use a stable, suitable surface: Position the barrel on a clean, level surface capable of supporting the weight of a full container. Avoid unstable or uneven surfaces.
  

Filling & Storage

Before filling, inspect the barrel and ensure that the interior and all components are clean and suitable for the intended use. Use clean water and follow the instructions provided with any water-treatment or preservation product being used.

After filling, securely close the barrel and label it with the fill date and any applicable treatment information. When accessing stored water, use clean equipment designed for use with the barrel and avoid introducing contaminants into the container.

Water Treatment & Preservation

If the barrel will be used for drinking-water storage, any water treatment or preservation product should be selected and used according to its manufacturer's instructions. Follow the product label for application rates, preparation, contact time, storage duration, and water-rotation recommendations.

Important: The water-preservation products used with this barrel are separate products and are not included with the barrel unless specifically stated in the product listing.

Cleaning & Sanitation

Before reuse, the barrel should be properly cleaned and sanitized using a method appropriate for the intended application. Follow applicable public-health guidance and the instructions for any cleaning or sanitizing product used.

Do not use stored water for consumption if it has an unusual appearance, odor, or other indication of possible contamination. When in doubt, discontinue use and properly clean and sanitize the container before refilling.

Compliance & Material Information

The 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel is manufactured from high molecular weight high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

According to the manufacturer's compliance information:

• The resin used in food-contact applications meets the requirements of FDA 21 CFR 177.1520 for olefin polymers.
• The finished articles are identified by the manufacturer as suitable for contact with applicable food types under the conditions specified in 21 CFR 176.170(c), Table 1, Conditions A–H.
• Closures, gaskets, lids, and rings are manufactured to comply with applicable FDA requirements, according to the manufacturer.
• The materials are reported to comply with applicable CONEG and California toxics-in-packaging requirements.
• The manufacturer reports that the materials do not intentionally contain a number of specified substances, including BPA, PFAS, phthalates, latex, PVC, and PVDC.
  

Important Compliance Information

The manufacturer's FDA information relates to the materials and food-contact applications described in its compliance documentation. It should not be interpreted as a blanket FDA approval or certification of the barrel for every possible application.

The suitability of the finished barrel depends on its intended use, contents, storage conditions, cleanliness, and handling. The user is responsible for determining whether the container is appropriate for their specific application and for complying with any applicable federal, state, or local requirements.

For emergency drinking-water storage, use only water and treatment/preservation products appropriate for that purpose and follow the applicable product instructions.

Per Barrel

• Capacity: 55 gallons
• Material: High Molecular Weight High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
• Food-Contact Material: Resin complies with FDA 21 CFR 177.1520 for olefin polymers, as specified by the manufacturer
• Food Types: Materials are designed for contact with applicable food types under the conditions specified in FDA 21 CFR 176.170(c)
• Closures & Components: Closures, gaskets, lids, and rings comply with applicable FDA requirements, according to the manufacturer
• Packaging Compliance: Meets applicable CONEG and California toxics-in-packaging requirements
• Manufacturing: GEO Plastics
• Manufacturing Location: Los Angeles, California
• Intended Use: Bulk water storage, emergency preparedness, disaster planning, and general storage applications
• Container Style: Tight Head
• Construction: Durable HDPE plastic construction
• Material Notes: Manufacturer states that the materials are free from intentionally added BPA, PFAS, phthalates, latex, PVC, PVDC, and other specified substances

Important: The manufacturer's material compliance information applies to the materials and finished articles as specified. Users are responsible for confirming that the container is suitable for their specific intended use, including storage conditions, contents, cleanliness, and applicable regulatory requirements.

This barrel ships via LTL freight on a pallet — not UPS or standard parcel carrier.

Freight Shipping

Freight rate is calculated at checkout based on your delivery ZIP code. A liftgate truck delivers the pallet to your curb or driveway — no loading dock required. The barrel arrives empty at 23 lbs and is easy to carry off the pallet and move to its final storage location before filling.

Southern California Local Delivery

Local delivery is available throughout greater LA and Southern California, typically at a lower cost than national freight rates. Select at checkout or call us at 888.733.7245.

Will-Call / Local Pickup

Available at our Torrance, CA warehouse (635 Hawaii Avenue). Order online and select Store Pickup at checkout, or stop by to purchase.

This item does not qualify for free shipping promotions.

Does the barrel arrive full or empty?

Empty. The barrel ships dry and is ready to be filled on-site. Use clean water and appropriate filling equipment suitable for the intended application.

How much water does the barrel hold?

The barrel has a 55-gallon capacity. A full barrel can weigh approximately 459 lbs, so select its permanent storage location before filling.

How long can I store water in this barrel?

Water storage duration depends on the water source, treatment or preservation method, storage conditions, and applicable instructions for the treatment product being used.

If storing water for emergency or drinking-water purposes, follow the instructions provided by your selected water-preservation or treatment product and establish an appropriate inspection and rotation schedule.

Do I need to treat the water?

If you are using the barrel for long-term emergency water storage, a suitable water-preservation or treatment product may be used according to the product manufacturer's instructions.

Water treatment and preservation products are sold separately. Always follow the specific product label for dosage, preparation, contact time, and storage recommendations.

Why do I need a siphon pump?

A filled 55-gallon barrel is extremely heavy and should not be tipped or lifted to dispense water. A siphon pump allows water to be removed while the barrel remains in its storage position.

A suitable pump can be inserted through the smaller bung opening to draw water from the barrel without moving the container.

What is a bung wrench, and do I need one?

The barrel features threaded bung openings on the top. A bung wrench is designed to properly loosen and tighten drum plugs.

For proper handling and closure of the bung plugs, use a wrench designed for the applicable drum fittings rather than relying solely on hand-tightening.

What is the barrel made from?

The barrel is manufactured from high molecular weight high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

According to the manufacturer's compliance documentation, the resin used in food-contact applications meets FDA 21 CFR 177.1520 requirements for olefin polymers. The manufacturer also provides food-contact information referencing applicable conditions under 21 CFR 176.170(c).

Is this barrel FDA approved?

The manufacturer provides FDA food-contact material compliance information for the HDPE resin and applicable components. This should not be interpreted as a blanket FDA approval or certification of the finished barrel for every use.

The suitability of the finished container depends on its intended contents, storage conditions, cleanliness, and handling. Users are responsible for determining whether the barrel meets the requirements for their specific application.

Can I use this barrel for food, fuel, or chemicals?

The barrel is manufactured from HDPE with materials identified by the manufacturer for applicable food-contact applications. However, fuel, chemicals, solvents, pesticides, and other substances may have different compatibility requirements.

Do not use the barrel for a substance unless you have confirmed that the container and its components are chemically compatible with that specific material and that the intended use is appropriate.

For emergency water storage, use the barrel only for its intended water-storage application and maintain appropriate sanitation and handling practices.

Can I store the barrel outside?

The barrel can be stored outdoors when appropriate precautions are taken, but a shaded or protected location is recommended. Prolonged direct sunlight and harsh environmental exposure can affect plastic containers over time.

When storing outdoors:

• Keep the barrel in a shaded location whenever possible.
• Protect it from prolonged direct sunlight.
• Keep the surrounding area clean and free from contaminants.
• Keep the barrel away from fuel, pesticides, solvents, paint, and other chemicals.
• Place the barrel on a stable, level surface capable of supporting the weight of a full container.
• Consider using an appropriate cover to protect the barrel from dirt and debris.

Can I move the barrel after it is filled?

A full 55-gallon barrel can weigh approximately 459 lbs. For safety, determine the permanent storage location before filling. If a filled barrel must be moved, use equipment specifically designed to handle a 55-gallon drum and its weight.

Does the barrel come with water treatment or a pump?

No. The barrel is sold empty. Water-preservation products, treatment products, siphon pumps, and bung wrenches are sold separately unless specifically included in a package or bundle.

Do you offer multiple-barrel options?

Yes. If you need additional storage capacity, see our available multi-barrel bundles for current package options and pricing.

Do you offer volume or organization pricing?

Volume pricing may be available for qualifying larger orders. Schools, businesses, government agencies, and other organizations can contact MorePrepared to discuss available pricing and purchasing options.

For larger orders, please contact 888-733-7245 or quotes@moreprepared.com for assistance.

What should I consider before using the barrel for drinking-water storage?

For drinking-water storage, proper water quality, sanitation, treatment, storage conditions, and handling are all important. Use water and treatment products appropriate for drinking-water storage and follow the applicable manufacturer's instructions.

The barrel's material compliance documentation does not replace the user's responsibility to ensure that the complete storage system and its intended use are appropriate for drinking water.