Reef nutrition

ATO container

musclebenz

musclebenz

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I need to use a larger ATO container when on vacation. Are the black Costco bins safe to use for two weeks?
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I used one for water changes for years. Mine bulged out every 4-6 months. I wouldn’t trust these full of water.
 
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Should be fine. Consider cutting a hole in the lid for the pump/tubing, as opposed to leaving the lid off. Having the lid on likely will help with evaporation, stuff/pets falling in, and structural strength (if needed). I’ve used them temporarily up to half full or so with no problems. I wouldn’t be worried to use them full as a temporary ATO.
 
As with any vacation-proofing tank planning I’d recommend you implement it asap so you hopefully have it going for at least a week or 2 before you leave and you can make sure there aren’t going to be any surprises.
 
I’ve had 40-50 lbs of rock curing in a bin full to the brim with water for around two months. You should be fine. If the bulging sides bother you, put some tie down straps around it with a rachet. You could always use a brute trash can as well. If you’re close I can loan a 22g brute can.
 
JVU said:
As with any vacation-proofing tank planning I’d recommend you implement it asap so you hopefully have it going for at least a week or 2 before you leave and you can make sure there aren’t going to be any surprises.
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Hi John, Yes I am going to start putting it in place tomorrow.
 
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Alternately, you can use a Brute container with a lid. I have a 30 gallon container I used when I was out of town for a couple weeks; lid helped reduce evaporation, and those things are sturdy.

EDIT: @musclebenz Actually, I haven't used it in a while, so you're welcome to borrow it while you're out of town if you'd like. Probably needs to be rinsed out, but I can take care of that for you.
 
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