So you’ve begun the process of storing water at home. Is it possible for this water “go bad” over time? This is an age-old question that always pops up when the process is first started. It’s always a smart question, as effective maintenance and keeping stored water safe for consumption has always got to be priority number one no matter which storage method is being explored. Today, we’ll touch on whether drinking water tends to expire, the importance of trusting your instincts along the way, as well as offer some more tips to make sure that you are successful in your bid to safely store water at home every time.
Does Water “Go Bad”?
The short answer to whether water can “go bad” is yes, and no. Water is a natural substance, so in its original form it cannot go bad. This is only compromised by whatever it is stored in, including plastic or other types of bottles and containers. Water can “go bad” if it is kept in plastic containers for too long, which will result in chemicals from the container leaking into it. Regular water can have a reduced taste over time, but it shouldn’t be harmful if it has been kept in the right conditions. Generally, water is safe for consumption for up to six months after first being stored, provided there haven’t been loopholes in the process of securing it over time.
Water Quality: Trust Your Instincts
In spite of following general good practice with regards to safely storing water, always trust your gut when it comes to the way the water looks and tastes. Even if you’ve followed every precaution, there is always room for unforeseen environmental changes and unexpected conditions to deal to. If the colour of the water is looking murky, if the smell is foreign to you, or if you can taste that it doesn’t quite match up to what you’re used to, it’s best not to consume the water. This can lead to gastrointestinal illness, and because symptoms (cramps, vomiting & diarrhea) only show up a day or two later, you may end up consuming more than you should have before you realise you’ve even become ill.
The Right Storage Matters
The right type of storage will always make it less likely that you will end up ill, which is why it is so important to invest in good options. Alongside getting the best barrels, containers or jars ready for the job, the conditions will make a major difference too. An environment where the sun plays an active role, or worse yet, will shine directly onto your stored supply, can yield disastrous long-term results and consequences. Store containers a few centimeters from the ground, especially in a garage setting, as the sun may heat up the cement and the containers even if they don’t have direct light exposure. Good storage will have decent seals that are hard to break, and easy to secure.
More Advice for Safely Storing Water
Along with taking the right storage precautions, always remember to also label the batch with “drinking water” and the date of bottling, so you can keep track of your overall supply. This will help you to replace it every six months, as no stored water should be consumed past this date. It also helps to have a thermometer nearby in the area, to ensure that conditions don’t become harsh over time, especially as seasons change. The South African summer is one of the hottest in the world. Safely storing water requires some flexibility, as well as knowing when to get some expert advice to do it properly. If you’re looking for more help, or a permanent healthy water solution for home, check in with the Aquazania team to keep the momentum going.
