A 55-Gallon plastic drum filed with water, placed near a rainwater harvesting setup with calculation tools nearby

How much does a 55 Gallon Plastic Drum of Water weigh?

How much does a 55 Gallon Plastic Drum of Water weigh? 

Water storage is an essential practice for various industries, homes and agricultural operations. A 55-Gallon plastic drum is a popular choice for water storage due to its durability and capacity. But how much does it weigh when filled with water? In this blog we will calculate the weight, explore factors influencing storage, and higlight how our annual water collection calculator can help optimize your water conservation efforts. 

The weight of water in a 55-Gallon Plastic Drum 

The weight of water depends on its density, which varies slightly with temperature. On average  

  • 1 Gallon of water weighs 8.34 pounds (3.78 Kilograms) 
  • 55 Gallons of water weigh approximately 459 pounds (208 Kilograms) 
  • Adding the drums weight usually around 20 pounds the total weight is approximately 479 pounds (217 kilograms) 

Formula for calculate the weight of water in a 55-Gallon Plastic Drum

Total Weight  = Weigh of water +  Drum Weight 

Factors to consider for storing a 55-Gallon drum of water 

When storing water in a plastic drum, keep these considerations in mind:  

  • Weight distribution: Ensure the storage surface is strong enough to support nearly 480 pounds 

  • Material of the Drum: Use high-density polyethylene HDPE drums certified for potable water to ensure safety.

  • Temperature Control: Store drums in shaded or cool areas to prevent microbial growth and degradation of the plastic.

  • Sealing and Maintenance: Use tight-head drums with secure lids to prevent contamination and evaporation.

Why is a 55-Gallon Drum for a water storage? 

  • Durability: Resistant to weather and chemicals, ensuring long term storage.
     
  • Portability: While heavy when full, the manageable size allows for transport with proper equipment. 

  • Versatility: Perfect for rainwater harvesting, emergency preparedness, or irrigation. 

Optimize your water storage with our Annual Water Collection Calculator

Our Annual water collection calculator helps you maximize your rainwater harvesting potential by estimating the amount of water you can collect annually. Here´s how it works: 

Input your roof Area: Enter the square footage of your roof.

Rainfall Data: Add the average annual rainfall for your area.

Result: Get an accurate calculation of your water collection potential in gallons.

55-Gallon Drum for a water storage Benefits:

  • Helps plan the number of 55-Gallon drums needed for storage.

  • Aids in understanding your water conservation impact. 

  • Perfect for households, businesses, or agricultural planning. 

Frequently Asked Questions of 55-Gallon Drum for a water storage

Q- Can I stack 55-Gallon drums of water for storage?
Yes, but ensure you use stackable drums designed for this purpose and store them on a stable surface.

Q- How do I keep stored water safe?
Treat water with food-grade stabilizers and rotate the stock every 6 - 12 months.

Q- What if i need more water storage than a single Drum
Use our Annual water collection calculator to determine your needs and consider larger storage solutions like IBCs or multiple drums.

https://www.sddrums.com/pages/rain-water-collection-calculator 

 

 

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