Tap water can be stored for long periods of time, but it is important to note that the quality of the water may deteriorate over time. There are a number of factors that can affect the quality of tap water, including the type of storage container, the temperature and humidity of the environment, and the presence of contaminants. It is generally recommended that tap water be used within six months to ensure that it is safe to drink.
How We Store Tap Water on the No Budget Homestead
How long can tap water be stored? This is a question that often comes up, particularly during times of emergency. The answer depends on a number of factors, including the quality of the water and the storage container.
Tap water from a municipal water supply is usually safe to drink for up to six months, provided it is stored in a clean, airtight container. If you are using tap water from a private well, it should be used within two weeks.
Water that has been sitting in an open container is more likely to become contaminated with bacteria or other microorganisms.
Therefore, it is important to make sure your storage containers are clean and dry before filling them with tap water.
It is also important to keep your stored water away from light and heat, as both can cause degradation of the quality over time. If possible, store your water in a cool, dark place such as a basement or closet.
How to Store Tap Water Long Term
If you’re in an emergency situation and need to store tap water long term, there are a few things you should do to ensure the water is safe to drink. First, find a clean, food-grade container to store the water in. If you don’t have a clean container, you can sterilize one by boiling it for 5 minutes or using bleach (1 teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water).
Once you have your container, fill it with tap water and seal it tightly. Be sure to label the container with the date that you filled it so you know when it needs to be replaced. Store the water in a cool, dark place – avoiding extreme temperatures will help prolong its shelf life.
And finally, remember that stored tap water should be used within 6 months and then replaced.

Credit: www.healthline.com
Can Tap Water Be Stored Long Term?
Yes, tap water can be stored long term as long as it is done correctly. There are a few things to keep in mind when storing tap water for long periods of time. First, the water should be stored in a clean, food-grade container.
Second, the container should be filled to the top and sealed tightly to prevent bacteria from getting into the water. Finally, the water should be stored in a cool, dark place to prevent it from going bad.
How Do You Store Tap Water for Long Term Storage?
If you’re looking to store tap water for long term purposes, there are a few things you’ll need to take into consideration. First, it’s important to find a clean and food-grade container to store the water in. Once you’ve found an appropriate container, make sure to thoroughly clean and sterilize it before adding any water.
When filling your container with tap water, be sure to leave some headspace at the top of the container so that the water has room to expand if it freezes. It’s also important to label your containers with both the date that the water was collected and the expiration date (which is typically one year from the date of collection).
Once your containers are full and properly labeled, they can be stored in a cool, dark place.
If possible, try to keep them off of concrete floors or away from any sources of heat or direct sunlight. If stored properly, yourtap water should remain safe for drinking for up to one year.
How Long Can You Keep Tap Water in a Plastic Container?
Assuming you’re talking about an unopened, store-bought container of water:
You can keep a store-bought container of water unopened on your shelf for up to 2 years. After that, the water quality will start to degrade.
If you live in a warm climate, it’s best to use the water within 1 year.
If you’ve opened the container and taken some of the water out, you should finish using it within 4 days.
Conclusion
If you’re wondering how long you can store tap water, the answer is it depends. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that properly stored water can last for up to six months, while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says it’s safe to drink stored water for up to one year. However, both agencies note that the quality of your stored water can decline over time, so it’s important to check it regularly and rotate it every six months or so.
Additionally, if you live in an area with hard water, you may want to use bottled water or a filter when storing water for long periods of time.