
Off-Grid Water Storage: Setting Up Our IBC Tote System
Water is one of the most essential resources for off-grid living, and having a reliable storage system is key to maintaining self-sufficiency. In our latest YouTube video, we showcase the first phase of our water collection setup—using two 275-gallon IBC totes to store and manage our water supply. While we currently haul water from town, we have big plans to establish a rainwater collection system in the future. Here’s how we built our IBC tote water storage system, how we filter and heat the water, and what’s next for our off-grid homestead.
Building Our Water Storage System
To create a stable and efficient water storage setup, we started with two 275-gallon IBC totes, giving us a total storage capacity of 550+ gallons. Since proper elevation is crucial for water flow and pressure, we built a sturdy wooden standto raise the totes off the ground. This not only helps with gravity-fed water distribution but also keeps the containers stable and protected from potential damage.
Next, we plumbed the two totes together, allowing them to function as a single large unit rather than separate tanks. This setup makes it easier to fill, drain, and manage the water level without constantly switching between tanks.
Filtering and Heating the Water
Since our hauled water comes from a municipal source, we take extra steps to ensure it’s clean and safe for daily use. We use a filtration system to remove any sediment or contaminants, making it suitable for drinking, cooking, and bathing.
For hot water needs, we installed an off-grid water heater, allowing us to take warm showers and wash dishes efficiently. This system is powered by propane, making it a reliable solution for heating water without needing electricity.
Future Plans: Rainwater Collection
While hauling water from town is manageable for now, our long-term goal is to implement a rainwater harvesting system to reduce reliance on external sources. This will involve installing gutter systems on structures, adding pre-filters, and setting up a more advanced filtration and purification system to ensure the collected rainwater is safe for use.
By utilizing sustainable water management practices, we aim to become more self-reliant and reduce the environmental impact of our homestead.
Watch Our Water Storage Setup on YouTube!
If you’re interested in off-grid water storage, rainwater harvesting, and sustainable living, check out our latest YouTube video where we take you through our IBC tote water storage build and discuss our future water collection plans.
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