filtration systems in brute cans

[guserto4]

I'm planning the setup of my 100g tank, with the intent on eventually utilizing the filtration & sump components I create now for the 300g that is sitting in the garage for later. My question is- how many of you with larger volume systems go completely unconventional and do filtration / sump space in a series of brute trash cans? I'm leaning towards this because it seems more economical and less likely to crack, a seal to break, etc. Can anyone think of reasons NOT to go this route?

 

[jjk_reef00]

Many use rubbermaid stock tanks, gives you more open space than a brute.

 

[guserto4]

Yea those stock tanks. I've thought about those, but they take up some room. Plus I figure you can minimize evaporation with less surface area, right?

As the kids say, I'm "balling on a budget" and like the inexpensiveness of the brutes too.

Good point though. Thanks!

 

[Rybren]

IIRC, I believe that Randy Holmes-Farley uses a series of Brutes in his filtration system.

 

[rbarn]

35 gallon blue poly barrels are better. The trash cans are too flexible.
http://www.usplastic.com/catalog/default.aspx?catid=459&clickid=popcorn

Look around for a local dealer with used ones for sale.

 

[guserto4]

I think I found Randy Holmes-Farley's thread where he discussed part by part his filtration and I am thinking very similarly to what he did. I do like the idea of the blue polys, but brute's are just soo much easier/cheaper to source- I have a 44g brute I use for RO/DI and 2 20g brutes (one for water mixing and one that is holding fallow LR) and none show any deflection at all. My biggest concern I guess is that they might leach something (I know the 20g are food safe as they were an online order from HD, but idk about the grey 44g).