If you’re collecting rainwater or storing large quantities of liquids, a 55-gallon drum with a spigot is an essential upgrade. This guide highlights five reliable options, explaining who each is best for and why it fits different needs. Whether you’re a serious gardener, a prepper building a home water system, or a small business seeking durable storage, the right drum with a spigot simplifies dispensing and reduces waste. The buying table below compares key points at a glance to help you decide quickly.
| Product | Best For | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| WaterPrepared 55 Gallon Stackable Tank | Emergency preparedness and space-saving storage | Stackable design with built-in grooves; BPA-free, UV-protected HDPE for long-term hydration use |
| HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel | Industrial or large-scale storage | BPA-free, tight-head design with versatile fittings; durable and secure |
| BUSHMAN 55 Gallon Plastic Drum | Industrial or rugged outdoor use | Heavy-duty HDPE; UV-resistant; secure tight lid for leak prevention |
| HOANK 55-Gallon Open Head Water Barrel | Bulk storage and easy access | Open head design with large opening for filling and dispensing |
| FCMP Outdoor Rain Barrel | Residential rainwater harvesting | Flat-back design for space-saving placement; expandable with side spigots |
WaterPrepared 55 Gallon Stackable Tank with Spigots
Capacity and design speak to reliability. This 55-gallon tank emphasizes stackability to maximize storage in tight spaces. It’s best for households managing home water reserves or small cabins. The built-in spigots enable controlled dispensing without secondary connectors. The tank is described as BPA-free and UV-proof, supporting long-term water quality. A potential limitation is the need for secure stacking to avoid tipping in high-traffic areas.
- 55-gallon capacity for robust storage
- Stackable grooves optimize space in garages or sheds
- BPA-free, UV-protected HDPE to maintain water quality
Best for: Homes needing scalable storage with space efficiency. Choose this if you plan to expand the system by linking multiple tanks later.
HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free
This blue 55-gallon drum targets reliability for large-volume storage applications. It features BPA-free construction and a tight-head design, which helps minimize leakage risk and maintain container integrity. The product is versatile for water storage or bulk materials and includes fittings to support various pumping configurations. A caveat is that the tight-head design can make cleaning more involved than an open-head drum.
- 55-gallon capacity suitable for long-term storage
- BPA-free plastic enhances safety for stored liquids
- Tight-head design minimizes spills and exposure
Best for: Industrial or home setups where a secure, leak-minimized container is essential. Choose this if you need a solid, long-lived drum with flexible fitting options.
BUSHMAN 55 Gallon Plastic Drum
Built for rugged storage, this blue drum prioritizes durability and protection against the elements. The heavy-duty HDPE formulation resists corrosion, UV exposure, and impact damage, making it suitable for outdoor installations and agricultural use. The closed lid design helps prevent leaks and air exposure during storage or transport. A limitation might be the absence of a built-in spigot unless fitted, so plan to add a compatible valve if dispensing is required.
- Heavy-duty HDPE for long-term outdoor use
- Closed-head lid minimizes leaks and contamination
- Stackable design supports organized storage in limited spaces
Best for: Industrial or outdoor storage where resilience matters. Choose this if you prioritize weather resistance and a secure lid in rugged environments.
FCMP Outdoor Rain Barrel, 50 Gallon
This 50-gallon rain barrel prioritizes practical home use with a flat-back design for easy placement against structures. Spigots on the side facilitate simple watering or dispensing and enable linking multiple barrels for expanded storage. Although slightly smaller than the 55-gallon drums, it remains a solid choice for homeowners looking to start capturing rainwater without sacrificing convenience. Note that its storage capacity is fixed at 50 gallons, which may require more frequent emptying in heavy rainfall regions.
- Flat-back profile for space-efficient placement
- Expandable with side spigots to connect multiple barrels
- 50-gallon capacity suits average garden needs
Best for: Home gardeners or households starting a rainwater system. Choose this if you want a compact, install-friendly option with easy expansion.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For 55-Gallon Drums With Spigots
- Intended use: For gardening, choose BPA-free and UV-protected drums to preserve water quality. For industrial storage, prioritize tight-head designs with compatible fittings.
- Material and durability: Heavy-duty HDPE resists impact and weather; a UV-resistant exterior extends the drum’s lifespan outdoors.
- Spigot type and compatibility: Look for standard 2-inch or 3/4-inch fittings depending on your pumping system. Bulkhead fittings improve durability for high-use dispensing.
- Open head vs. tight head: Open-head drums offer easier cleaning and filling; tight-head drums provide better leak protection and longer storage.
- Stackability and space: Stackable designs maximize storage in garages or sheds; flat-back rain barrels fit neatly against walls.
- Accessibility and maintenance: Choose drums with easy-to-open lids or removable fittings to simplify cleaning and inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the advantage of a 55-gallon drum over smaller drums? Answer: A 55-gallon drum provides a larger storage capacity, reducing the frequency of water replenishment or refilling and enabling easier bulk handling.
- Are these drums suitable for potable water? Answer: BPA-free drums are more appropriate for potable water storage, though always confirm the material specifications and local guidelines before use.
- Can I connect multiple drums together? Answer: Yes, several drums are designed with spigots or bulkhead fittings to enable series or parallel connections for expanded storage.
- Which drum is best for outdoor use? Answer: Drums with UV-resistant material and heavy-duty HDPE are best for outdoor storage, as they resist sun damage and weather effects.
- Do open-head drums require extra cleaning? Answer: Yes, open-head drums should be cleaned periodically to remove sediment and maintain water quality during long storage periods.
- What should I consider when choosing a spigot? Answer: Check pipe diameter compatibility, seepage prevention, and whether the spigot supports bulkhead mounting for durability.