55-Gallon Water Storage Drum: Answers to Common Questions
These are the most common questions we hear from customers asking about our 210 litre (55 gallon) water storage drums. If you have something not covered here, email info@puretap.ca or visit our online store.
Are the drums new or used?
Brand new and unused. Every drum we sell comes directly from the manufacturer and has never held any product.
Are they safe for drinking water?
Yes. The drums are made from food-grade high molecular weight high-density polyethylene (HMW-HDPE). The material meets FDA food-contact regulations and USDA requirements. HDPE is the same material used in food packaging and commercial beverage equipment. All contact surfaces, including the drum body, bung, and seals, are food-grade.
What certifications do they have?
The drums carry FDA food-contact compliance, USDA compliance, and UN/DOT ratings for liquid products. They also meet UFC and NMFC standards. FDA food-contact HDPE compliance is the applicable standard for bulk water storage containers of this type.
What are the dimensions and weight?
The drum stands 88.4 cm (34.8 in) tall with a diameter of approximately 59.2 cm (23.3 in). Empty weight is approximately 9.5 kg (21 lbs). Full with water the drum weighs approximately 220 kg. Plan to dispense with a pump rather than moving a full drum.
What is the bung size?
The drum has two bung openings: a 2″ NPT (National Pipe Thread) bung and a 2″ buttress or 3/4″ vent opening. These are standard sizes compatible with the widest range of drum hand pumps, rotary pumps, and siphon pumps available at hardware and industrial supply stores.
Do you sell pumps?
We do not carry pumps at this time, but standard drum hand pumps that fit a 2″ NPT bung are widely available at hardware and industrial supply retailers.
What type of water should I store in it?
The drum is suitable for spring water, distilled water, demineralized water, and deionized water. For long-term home storage, distilled water is a good choice because it has no dissolved minerals or contaminants that can contribute to off-flavours over time. Tap water treated with chlorine will typically last about six months before the chlorine dissipates; distilled water in a sealed drum stores cleanly for much longer.
We sell drum fill-up services for all water types. Add a fill to your order at checkout.
Any tips for storing the drum at home?
Keep the drum out of direct sunlight. UV exposure degrades the plastic over time and can warm the water, which encourages bacterial growth. A basement, garage, or shaded storage area is ideal. Store the drum on a flat, stable surface away from heat sources. Do not stack filled drums.
What is the price?
Each drum is $120.00 plus applicable taxes. Delivery is quoted at checkout based on your address.
Do you deliver?
Yes. We deliver throughout the GTA including Brampton, Mississauga, Oakville, and Caledon. Standard delivery for drums is curbside. If you need placement inside a garage or at a specific location on your property, let us know in the order notes and we will confirm what is possible for your address.
You can also pick up at our warehouse at 950 Verbena Road, Mississauga.
Download the 210 Litre Drum Spec Sheet (PDF)
Order online at puretap.ca. Puretap has been supplying water and storage solutions in Mississauga since 1986.
Related: 210 Litre Water Drum for Emergency Home Storage: What You Need to Know | How much emergency water does your family need?
