FAQs

What containers should I use for long-term water storage?

The Aqua-Stack, Aqua-Tank, Aqua-Pak, Water-Pak, Desert Patrol, Armadillo and Rhino-Pak water containers are ideal long-term storage containers. Most can be stacked when filled with water.

 

How do I set up my new Aqua-Tainer?

1. Remove the plastic plug on the side of the container
2. Unscrew the hideaway spigot underneath the top cap
3. Thread the hideaway spigot into the hole on the side of the container
4. Position Aqua-Tank in desired location
5. Fill with water
6. Replace the top cap
7. Spigot can now be used to dispense or drain water
NOTE: To prevent leaks, do not overtighten or undertighten

 

Can I stack my Aqua-Tainer when it is filled?

No. This container can only be stacked when it is empty.

 

Are Reliance water containers made from food-grade material?

Yes. All Reliance water containers are made from food-safe plastic.

 

Are your products BPA-free?

Yes, all of our products are BPA-free. We have never used BPA in the manufacturing process of our products.

 

Can my water container be exposed to sunlight?

Periodic sunlight exposure is okay, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight will cause your water containers to degrade and become brittle, which increases the chance of leaks. We always recommend storing your water containers in cool shaded areas.

 

Why would I use water containers for storing water instead of storing bottled water?

Depending on your situation, you might use a combination of bottled water AND water containers as part of your emergency preparedness strategy. Having a couple of bottles of water per person provides convenient or ultra-portable drinking options, and then you could simply refill those bottles from your water containers that are storing the bulk of your water.

However, small, one-time use water bottles produce waste whenever they are consumed, so you wouldn’t want to store all of the water you need in single-use plastic water bottles. A more efficient solution would be to ditch the bottled water and keep a few reusable water bottles handy so that you can simply fill the water bottles from the water containers when you need access to drinking water.

Given the proper care, our reusable water containers have an infinite useful life, significantly reducing your waste.

 

How much water should I store at home in case of an emergency?

It is recommended that every household store a minimum of one (1) gallon (3.78L) of water per person, per day for at least a three-day period. For example, a family of four should store a minimum of 12 gallons (45.4L) of drinking water for a three-day period.

 

How long can I store water in a Reliance container?

This will depend on the quality of the water in your area; we generally recommend that you change your stored water at least every 90 days.

 

Do I need to treat my water before I store it for the long-term?  

Tap water is usually used for long-term water storage. If you have a clean, opaque container that light cannot get through–and your water is bacteria-free when you store it–you probably don't need to treat it further. Under these conditions, the water actually gets purer when in storage. 

However, for most of us there is no guarantee that our tap water is bacteria-free, so we prefer to treat our water in some way as a precaution when we store it. For the most up-to-date information on treating water correctly for long term storage we recommend you visit the FEMA website if you’re based in the U.S. or review this article. If you’re in Canada, refer to the Government of Canada Get Prepared  guidelines.

 

How long can I use the same water container?

There is no limit to how long a water container may be used, providing it is properly maintained and cleaned between uses. The container is made from food-grade (BPA free) plastic and will not degrade over time with proper care.

 

My water tastes funny after storing it in my water container. Why?

This is likely due to a build-up of dissolved solids from previous water storage and from bacteria growth on the inside of your container. It is not caused by the plastic.

You can try cleaning your water container as recommended below, but if your container has not been cleaned for a long time this method may not work. If this is the case, you will need to replace your water container and follow the recommended care and use guidelines.

 

How can I clean the inside of my water container?

We recommend that you rinse the inside of your water container with baking soda and water a few times between each use. The suggested ratio is 1/2 cup (118 ml) of baking soda per one gallon (3.78L) of water.

You can also use Vinegar OR Bleach as a cleaner. IMPORTANT: Do not use vinegar and baking soda at the same time.

Vinegar and water can be used to clean your container. The suggested ratio is 1 cup (250ml) of vinegar  per one (1) gallon (3.78L) of water.

Bleach and water may also be used to clean your container. The suggested ratio is 1 quart (1L) of water to 2 tablespoons (30ml) of bleach.

Make sure to rinse out the container with water after cleaning with any of these recommended solutions.

It is important that the inside of the container be completely dry before storing it, unless you’re immediately storing water in the container. A clean, dry container inhibits the growth of bacteria.

 

Can I store gasoline or other chemicals in my water container?

No. Your water container is designed and manufactured to store water and other consumable beverages. It should never be used to store or transport anything else.

 

I have a hole in my Fold-A-Carrier. Is there anything that can be used to patch the hole?

Unfortunately, there is no way to patch a hole in the side of a Fold-A-Carrier. Since the container is intended for storing drinkable water, the chemicals found in adhesives could leach into the drinking water.

 

What is the coldest temperature water containers can be stored at?  How much room should I leave to allow for expansion of freezing water?

These water containers are not tested under freezing conditions, so we do not recommend storing water containers in freezing temperatures. The containers may become less durable and the mechanical components may change if frozen. Water can expand up to 10% in volume when frozen.

 

What is the weight capacity of the portable toilets?

The main body of our portable toilets have all been tested with a maximum static load of 300 lbs. The toilet lid is more fragile, so you should never use the toilet as a footstool. Our Flush-n-Go Series of portable toilets are rated to a maximum of 325 lbs.

 

I cannot fold down the Fold-to-Go leg, how does it work?

You may need to use a little extra force to unlock and pull the legs. With your right hand, position your forefinger on the upper lock (push to unlock) and your thumb on the leg. With your left hand place your forefinger on the lower lock (pull to unlock). Simultaneously, use your right hand to push the lock and pull the leg and use your left hand to pull the lock.

 

My Flush-N-Go portable toilet spills water from the upper part on my hands when I move it around, is this normal?

All of our portable toilets are designed with a vent hole on the upper part to release air and make the pump easier to use. The water may spill a bit if the water tank is filled to the top or if the toilet is tilted when it is full of water. Any water that is spilled from the upper part will be clean water (not waste water), so it does not represent a biological hazard. To avoid water spills from the vent hole, please do not fill the upper tank more than 75% full.

 

How much waste do the Double Doodie bags hold?

The Double Doodie bags can hold approximately 5lbs. (2L) of waste.

The Double Doodie PLUS bags can hold approximately 12lbs. (5L) of waste.

 

How do you remove the odor of Bio-Blue Liquid if accidentally spilled on the floor?

Bio-Blue is a toilet deodorant (its main function is to mask other smells), so getting rid of the smell won’t be as easy as one might think.

You can try by making a solution of equal parts baking soda and lemon juice. Mix until you have a paste with the consistency of pancake batter. Spread this paste along the surface using a damp rag. Let this solution sit for 15 minutes. Then, spray vinegar over the paste and let it sit for 2 minutes. Wipe off using a clean rag.

 

I have a water container with a spigot on it and I am finding it difficult to turn the spout. Is there anything I can do to correct this?

Yes. Remove the spout from the stem and ensure that it is free from dirt that may interfere with performance. Apply a drop of cooking oil to the spout and reassemble. This may need to be repeated periodically.

IMPORTANT: Ensure you take note of which direction the spout and stem are to be assembled. If they are put together backwards the spigot will leak.

 

Can I clean my spigot cap in the dishwasher?

No. Our components are not dishwasher safe and should be washed by hand in hot, soapy water, then rinsed with water.

 

Will the current Reliance  spigot fit older Reliance water containers?

Our current spigot will only fit containers manufactured after 2015.

 

Is the threading on Reliance caps universal?

No, it is a custom threading.

 

My question hasn't been answered. How do I contact Reliance Outdoors?

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