How to Get Rid of the Algae in a Five Gallon Water Bottle
Algae are primitive plants that grow in places where water and direct sunlight are found. Because algae can grow very quickly, it can appear in places such as water bottles, especially in the 5 gallon bottles used for water coolers. The water in these coolers may sit for a long time and if placed in sunlight can be the perfect place for algae to grow. It is important to clean and disinfect these water bottles in order to ensure the safety and health of the people who drink the water they contain. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Check the bottle for algae build-up. Look for green clumps that may be floating in the water or attached to the side of the bottle. If there is any sign of algae in the bottle, it is important to ensure the bottle is clean and the water in it is safe to drink.
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Shake the bottle to agitate the water and loosen any algae that may have grown on the side of the bottle. If there is no water left in the bottle, it may be helpful to add about a gallon of water to help loosen as much algae as possible. Then empty all remaining water from the bottle.
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Fill the bottle almost completely with water, adding 1/3 cup of household bleach for every gallon of water. You might find it easiest to alternate adding a gallon of water and 1/3 cup of bleach until the bottle is almost full. It is important to leave at least a couple inches of the bottle empty so there is room for air.
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Secure the lid on the bottle and shake to distribute the bleach evenly in the water. To ensure that the solution touches and cleans all surfaces of the bottle orient the bottle in different directions while shaking it.
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Place the bottle on a surface that is away from sunlight. Let the solution stand in the bottle for 30 minutes with the lid on. If desired, you can leave the solution for longer, but 30 minutes is an adequate amount of time for the bleach to kill the algae.
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Empty the bleach solution from the bottle. Rinse the bottle with fresh water to remove all bleach residue. It may be necessary to rinse the bottle multiple times to ensure all traces of bleach have been removed.
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Turn the bottle upside down on a towel or in a sink. Prop the bottle up so it stays in an inverted position. Let the bottle dry completely. Fill the bottle back up with water and continue regular use.
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Check the bottle at least once a week for algae growth.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear rubber gloves and eye protection when handling bleach.
Open windows and doors to let in fresh air and avoid breathing bleach fumes.
Do not mix bleach with ammonia or any other cleaner.
References
- Photo Credit cooler image by terex from Fotolia.com
