Water Storage

[L8ndeb]

Hi All,

Wondering if anybody uses uses and would like to comment on the blue, plastic, food grade, 40 or 55 gal drums you might find at a surplus store for water storage. If so, how long have you used them, and ANY problems? TIA

[jamesbaur13]

You'll want to look at the recycling symbol printed usually on the bottom of the container.

There will be a number printed in the center... 2 = HDPE (High Densitiy Polyethylene), 4 = LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene) or 5 = PP (Polypropylene)

These are the ones you want to use.

[Green_Reefer]

I looked and looked for a 55g blue barrel with no success. Lot's of soap and chemical ones out there though, so be careful of what you are getting. Ended up using a 44g Rubbermaid brute garbage can, they are food grade and can be used right after a simple rinse out. HD has them on sale regularly.

[L8ndeb]

James, are you saying all three are acceptable? Is one better than the other?

Green, yes I have used the Rubbermaids before. The blues I'm looking at have bottom outlets installed to make it nice to plumb for what I have planned.

[billdogg]

My blue 55g barrel has been in use for ~ 25 years. It originally contained either photgraphic fixer or developer - I cannot remember which. I rinsed it well, rubbed down the inside with comet cleanser and then baking soda, rinsed again, and put it to use. I have no idea what it is made of - other than blue plastic, that is.

[sporto0]

I have a blue 55g barrel, I ordered it from Northern Tool, it was listed as a rain barrel, came complete with a 2 faucets & a screw top lid, perfect for storing my RO/DI water.

[jok3rqnk]

i also use a rubbermaid brute garbage can....

[jeff@zina.com]

Like 80% of the world, Brute garbage cans here. Yes, plural. And no, I use cheap garbage cans that are always breaking for regular garbage. And my wife says I'm not bright... :)

Jeff

[jamesbaur13]

This article explains it... http://www.3reef.com/forums/general-reef-topics/reef-safe-plastics-leaching-myths-facts-57828.html

2,4 and 5 are all equally as good from what I gather from this article.

[L8ndeb]

James, thanks for the link.