For homes in the Blue Mountains, Beaver Valley, and surrounding Ontario communities, having a safe water supply is essential. Whether you use a cistern, a large holding tank, or smaller containers, proper storage keeps your water fresh, clean, and ready when you need it.
Here’s how to make sure your stored water stays in top condition.
Choose the Right Storage Container
The type of container you use matters. For long-term storage:
- Food-grade plastic or fiberglass tanks are ideal for potable water.
- Never use containers that previously held chemicals. Even a deep clean can leave dangerous residue.
- Make sure the container is opaque or covered to limit sunlight exposure (which can cause algae growth).
Keep Your Storage Area Clean and Protected
Your water is only as clean as its surroundings.
- Store tanks away from fuel, pesticides, or other potential contaminants.
- Keep the lid secure to prevent insects, rodents, and debris from getting in.
- In outdoor setups, consider insulating or burying tanks to reduce temperature swings.
Sanitize Before You Fill
Even brand-new tanks should be cleaned before use. Always follow the cleaning and sanitizing instructions that came with your tank. If you don’t have them, your tank manufacturer can provide guidance.
Many tank owners use a bleach-based rinse as part of their regular maintenance. This typically involves adding a small amount of unscented household bleach to clean water, swishing it over all surfaces, letting it sit, and then rinsing thoroughly. For example, a common ratio is about 1 teaspoon per litre of water, left for 30 minutes before draining and rinsing.
Repeat cleaning every 6–12 months or as recommended for your specific tank to help maintain water quality.
Use the Right Water Source
If your water is delivered by Mountain Services, you’re already ahead. Our trucks carry clean, treated water from approved municipal sources. This helps reduce the risk of bacteria or chemical contamination right from the start.
Monitor and Test Regularly
For drinking water, test every 6 months for bacteria (E. coli and total coliforms). For non-drinking uses like irrigation or pools, check for sediment and algae buildup.
- If water looks cloudy, smells unusual, or tastes “off,” don’t use it until you’ve tested and cleaned the tank.
Rotate Stored Water
Even with perfect storage, water doesn’t stay fresh forever. For drinking purposes, aim to replace stored water every 6–12 months. This ensures better taste and reduces the chance of bacterial growth.
Winter Storage Tips
In Ontario winters, freezing is your biggest threat.
- Keep tanks in insulated spaces or use tank heaters.
- If not in use, drain tanks fully to prevent cracking.
- For buried cisterns, ensure the lid and access points are sealed tightly.
Final Tip
Safe water storage is a simple way to protect your household and avoid costly problems. A clean, well-maintained tank and regular water rotation will keep you ready for daily use or emergencies.
Mountain Services delivers clean, treated water across the Blue Mountains, Beaver Valley, Owen Sound, Collingwood, and nearby areas, quickly, reliably, and always from an approved source.
