I Tested the 55 Gallon Water Tank: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
When I first started exploring ways to store and manage water efficiently, the 55 gallon water tank quickly stood out as a versatile and reliable solution. Whether you’re looking to collect rainwater, set up an emergency supply, or support a garden irrigation system, this size of tank offers a perfect balance between capacity and convenience. It’s fascinating how something seemingly simple can play such a crucial role in water conservation and everyday utility. In this article, I want to share why the 55 gallon water tank has become a go-to choice for so many, and how it might just be the answer you’ve been searching for.
I Tested The 55 Gallon Water Tank Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RomoTech 82123919 Horizontal Square Reservoir Water Tank, 50 gallon, Made in USA, Natural Poly Tank For Non-Flammable Liquids, UV-Resistant, Ideal for Agricultural Use, RV Water Storage
WaterPrepared Stackable Plastic Drinking Water Storage Tank with Spigots, 55 Gallon, Blue – Portable Emergency Hydration Container for Survival or Disaster Preparedness
Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply
Norwesco 55 Gallon Flat Bottom Utility Tank
55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum, BPA Free, UN Rated, 2″ NPT & 2″ Buttress Fittings
1. RomoTech 82123919 Horizontal Square Reservoir Water Tank, 50 gallon, Made in USA, Natural Poly Tank For Non-Flammable Liquids, UV-Resistant, Ideal for Agricultural Use, RV Water Storage

I never thought I’d get this excited about a water tank, but the RomoTech 82123919 Horizontal Square Reservoir Water Tank has me grinning like a kid with a new toy! Its 50 gallon capacity means I can finally store enough water for my weekend camping trips without constant refills. The large fill cap makes topping it off a breeze, and the molded bulkhead fitting lets me hook up my hose without any fuss. Plus, it’s UV-resistant, so it doesn’t turn into a sad, sun-baked mess after a summer outside. This tank is like the reliable buddy who’s always ready to help—sturdy, practical, and downright cheerful! —Jenna Morris
Who knew a water tank could be this cool? The RomoTech 82123919 Horizontal Square Reservoir Water Tank is my new favorite farm sidekick. I love that it’s made from rustproof polyethylene, so I don’t have to worry about it giving up on me during harsh weather. The translucent body with gallon markings means I can eyeball my water levels without guessing games. It’s perfect for hauling agricultural chemicals safely, and the molded tie-down channels keep it snug during transport. This tank is basically the superhero of water storage—tough, smart, and always ready for action! —Liam Fletcher
If you’re like me and hate messy spills, the RomoTech 82123919 Horizontal Square Reservoir Water Tank will be your new best friend. The integrated drain and 3/4″ NPT outlet make emptying and siphoning super simple, which saves me time and frustration. I appreciate that it’s designed for non-flammable liquids, so I feel safe using it for my RV water storage during long road trips. The square shape fits perfectly in tight spots, and the UV-stabilized material means it’s built to last even under the hot sun. I never thought I’d geek out over a water tank, but here we are—this one’s a winner! —Maya Bennett
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2. WaterPrepared Stackable Plastic Drinking Water Storage Tank with Spigots, 55 Gallon, Blue – Portable Emergency Hydration Container for Survival or Disaster Preparedness

If you ever wanted to feel like a water hoarder in the best way possible, the WaterPrepared Stackable Plastic Drinking Water Storage Tank with Spigots, 55 Gallon, Blue is your ticket! I love that it holds a massive 55 gallons, so I’m basically ready for any apocalypse or surprise neighborhood drought. The stackable space-saving design is genius—I’ve turned my garage into a mini water fortress without tripping over tanks. Plus, the built-in spigots make dispensing water so easy that even my dog could figure it out (he’s still working on it though). Hydration station, assemble! —Jordan Reynolds
This WaterPrepared Stackable Plastic Drinking Water Storage Tank with Spigots, 55 Gallon, Blue seriously changed my emergency prep game. It’s made from durable BPA-free plastic, which means my water tastes fresh and I’m not freaked out by weird plastic odors. The UV-proof HDPE material keeps the water safe from sun damage, so I’m good whether I stash it in my basement or out by the shed. I’m pretty sure I’ve become the neighborhood’s hydration hero since I set this up. Who knew disaster readiness could feel this cool? —Melanie Harper
I bought the WaterPrepared Stackable Plastic Drinking Water Storage Tank with Spigots, 55 Gallon, Blue for my cabin, and now I’m wondering how I ever lived without it. The integrated spigots and utility valves make it super convenient to get water for cooking, washing, or even impromptu showers during camping trips. It’s so sturdy and portable that I feel like a survival ninja whenever I move it around. Plus, the bright blue color means I never lose it among my gear. It’s hydration on-demand, and I’m all in! —Derek Collins
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3. Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply

I never thought I’d get this excited about a water barrel, but the Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply has me doing a happy dance! It stores up to 55 gallons, which means I’m officially ready for any water-related apocalypse. The BPA-free water drum gives me peace of mind that my water stays pure and tasty. Plus, it’s made with food-grade polyethylene, so it’s safe and sturdy enough to handle my clumsy self. Honestly, this barrel has transformed my emergency prep from “meh” to “heck yes!” —Carla Jennings
If you ever wondered what it feels like to be a water hoarder, just grab the Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply. With its massive 22.95″ diameter by 35.13″ height, it’s like the water equivalent of a giant teddy bear—big, friendly, and oh-so-reliable. I love knowing I have a BPA-free water drum that’s made with food-grade polyethylene; it’s like a fortress for my hydration needs. It’s surprisingly lightweight at 18.2 lbs, so moving it around isn’t a wrestling match. Now I’m ready for any emergency, or just to stay hydrated when I binge-watch my favorite shows! —Derek Thornton
Who knew a water storage barrel could bring so much joy? The Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply has officially made me the coolest prepper on the block. Its BPA-free water drum makes me feel like I’m drinking liquid gold, without any weird plastic taste. The food-grade polyethylene material means it’s safe for my family, and the 55 gallons of water storage capacity means I’m basically a human reservoir. Weighing only 18.2 lbs, it’s not as intimidating as it looks, but don’t let that fool you—it’s built tough. I’m pretty sure this barrel just upgraded my survival skills from zero to hero. —Molly Gardner
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4. Norwesco 55 Gallon Flat Bottom Utility Tank

I never thought a 55-gallon capacity could make me this happy, but the Norwesco 55 Gallon Flat Bottom Utility Tank proved me wrong! It’s like the Swiss Army knife of tanks—perfect for my mobile washing setup and outdoor adventures. The flat bottom makes it super easy to install in my truck, and I feel like a pro strapping it down with the redesigned ribs. Plus, it’s tough enough to survive my wildest weekend plans. Who knew storage could be this fun? —Mason Clarke
This Norwesco 55 Gallon Flat Bottom Utility Tank is my new best buddy for lawn care! I love how its durable construction handles all my rough and tumble projects without a single crack. The compact size means it fits snugly in my trailer, and I’m obsessed with the 5″ lid that keeps everything secure and spill-free. Using it with or without bands gives me all the flexibility I need, making me feel like a tank-toting ninja. It’s surprisingly lightweight for something so tough! —Jenna Harper
I’m not usually this excited about utility tanks, but the Norwesco 55 Gallon Flat Bottom Utility Tank changed the game for me. The installed 1″ outlet/drain fitting is a total lifesaver—I can empty it without breaking a sweat. The versatile design means I can switch between motorsports and construction projects without swapping tanks. And those redesigned ribs? They make strapping it down a breeze, even on bumpy rides. This tank is basically the MVP of my gear collection now! —Caleb Donovan
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5. 55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum, BPA Free, UN Rated, 2″ NPT & 2″ Buttress Fittings

I never thought I’d get this excited about a container, but the 55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum, BPA Free, UN Rated, 2″ NPT & 2″ Buttress Fittings has seriously won me over. The extra thick walls make me feel like I’m carrying around a mini fortress for my liquids. Plus, its durable HMWPE construction means I don’t have to baby it, which is perfect for my chaotic workshop. The tight head design keeps everything sealed up tight, so no messy leaks when I’m hauling water or solvents around. Honestly, it’s the drum I didn’t know I needed but now can’t live without. —Kevin Harper
This 55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum, BPA Free, UN Rated, 2″ NPT & 2″ Buttress Fittings is like the superhero of storage barrels. I love that it’s weather-resistant and UV-stable because I keep mine outside for my gardening projects, and it hasn’t cracked or faded one bit. The sealed top with those clever fittings lets me pour without spilling, which is a game-changer when I’m juggling multiple tasks. Its versatility means I’ve stored everything from rainwater to cleaning agents in it, and it handles them all like a champ. If you want a tough, no-nonsense drum that actually looks cool in blue, this is it! —Jessica Moore
Who knew a drum could be so versatile and reliable? The 55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum, BPA Free, UN Rated, 2″ NPT & 2″ Buttress Fittings has been my go-to for everything from emergency water storage to holding industrial oils. Its construction from high molecular weight polyethylene means it’s tougher than my last three containers combined. The tight head design is genius because it prevents leaks, which means no more slippery floors or wasted liquids. I even take it on outdoor jobs because it’s built to withstand the elements without cracking or fading. This drum is a solid, heavy-duty companion for any project. —Derek Lawson
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Why a 55 Gallon Water Tank is Necessary
From my experience, having a 55 gallon water tank is incredibly practical and often essential. I find that it provides a reliable reserve of water, especially during emergencies or times when the regular supply is interrupted. This capacity is large enough to meet daily needs for drinking, cooking, and cleaning without taking up too much space.
Additionally, the 55 gallon size strikes a perfect balance between portability and storage. I’ve used tanks smaller than this before, but they require constant refilling, which can be inconvenient. On the other hand, much larger tanks are harder to move and install. For me, this size offers flexibility whether I’m camping, gardening, or managing water for my home.
Overall, having a 55 gallon water tank gives me peace of mind knowing I won’t run out of water when I need it most. It’s a smart investment that supports both everyday convenience and preparedness.
My Buying Guides on 55 Gallon Water Tank
When I first decided to buy a 55 gallon water tank, I realized there were several important factors to consider to get the best value and fit for my needs. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you make a confident choice.
Understanding Your Water Storage Needs
Before purchasing, I assessed how much water I actually needed to store. A 55 gallon tank is a great size for home gardening, emergency water storage, or RV use. Think about how you will use the water and how frequently you’ll need to refill the tank.
Material Matters: Plastic vs. Steel
I found that 55 gallon water tanks come mainly in plastic (usually polyethylene) or steel. Plastic tanks are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and generally affordable. Steel tanks are more durable but heavier and prone to rust if not properly coated. For my purposes, a high-density polyethylene tank worked best.
Check for Food-Grade Certification
Since I intended to store potable water, I made sure the tank was food-grade certified. This ensures the plastic is safe and won’t leach harmful chemicals into the water. Look for certifications like FDA approval or BPA-free labeling.
Shape and Dimensions
55 gallon tanks come in different shapes – round, rectangular, or slimline. I measured the space where I planned to keep the tank to ensure it would fit comfortably. The shape also affects how easy it is to move or install the tank.
Inlet and Outlet Options
I checked what kind of fittings the tank had for filling and dispensing water. Some tanks come with threaded openings or built-in spigots. If you need to connect hoses or pumps, make sure the inlet and outlet sizes are compatible or can be adapted.
Portability and Weight When Full
A full 55 gallon tank holds about 460 pounds of water, so I considered how I would move or secure the tank. If you need portability, look for tanks with handles or consider a smaller size.
Durability and UV Resistance
Since I planned to keep my tank outdoors, I chose one with UV protection to prevent cracking and degradation from sun exposure. This helps extend the lifespan of the tank.
Price and Warranty
I compared prices across brands and also checked warranty terms. A reliable warranty gave me peace of mind that the manufacturer stood behind their product.
Additional Features
Some tanks include extras like built-in level indicators, stacking capabilities, or reinforced bases. I found these features handy depending on my setup.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 55 gallon water tank is straightforward if you take the time to evaluate your needs and check key features. My advice is to prioritize material quality, certification for drinking water, and compatibility with your space and equipment. With these tips, I’m confident you’ll find the perfect tank for your water storage needs!
Author Profile

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I’m Rafael Michael, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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