rubbermaid-like sumps.. which plastic is safe?

[sammiefish]

When selecting a rubermaid-like plastic storage bin for use as a sump, the plastic used to make the bin must not leach chemicals into the water.
Someone mentioned using food-grade plastic... and I think mentioned that you can tell the type of plastic by the recycle # which should be moulded in the bottom of the container.
anyone know what the designation is that is safe to use?

 

[orucco]

I would also like to know as I need to enlarge my sump and want to try rubbermaid as it will flex a bit and I can get a bigger container through my 10" door opening. I have read where some people take the center brace out while doing so but mine is indeed load bearing and I do not want to...........Thanks.

 

[fishmamma]

I have been searching, no luck yet.:thinking:

 

[fishmamma]

All of my plastic food containers are "5", I had some clear Rubbermaid bins upstairs so decided to check them, they are also "5"'s. I did see on the web that any large food containers/buckets from places like Costco or restaurants/bakeries can be used. Also in a pinch use a plastic cooler.

 

[1911_guy]

I sure hope someone knows something about this.
I have 3 rubbermaids right now and am trying to make a sump.
31G is rated 4, 35G is rated 4, and the 50G is rated at 2.
I'm thinking of placing 2 containers inside of the 50G and using the big one to catch any spills or leaks.

 

[who dey]

sounds ghetto rigged!! don't half ass anything!! i would just spend the money on a nice sump!!!

 

[darknes]

The majority of plastics used for anything are going to be safe for your tank. I don't think any plastics really are going to "leach" anything harmful into your water.
The only problem could possibly be residue that is left inside the container, but I should hope you would wash anything out before you use it with your tank.

 

[fishmamma]

Some containers (plastics) are not considered food and water safe because they can release chemicals into food/water, especially when heated.

 

[darknes]

Originally posted by fishmamma
Some containers (plastics) are not considered food and water safe because they can release chemicals into food/water, especially when heated.
But the water temperature shouldn't be warm enough to cause a problem. Also, I've heard that plastic tupperwares can leak cancer-causing chemicals into your food when heated in a microwave, but I don't think it's much, and it's not going to kill you.
I'm not trying to disagree with you or start an arguement, just speaking my opinion.

 

[acrylic51]

sounds ghetto rigged!! don't half ass anything!! i would just spend the money on a nice sump!!!
Alot of people use the Rubbermaid containers for sumps so wouldn't actually call it "ghetto rigged", just depends on your pocket and how pretty you want everything. Why pay the man "big cash" for basically nothing when you can build your own for less than half of what he's charging!!!! My new sump is going to be 72"x30"x30" done with 1/2 acrylic....Try pricing that from a manufacturer!!!!!!

 

[fishmamma]

Darknes, not arguing here either.:notsure: I just came across a few different articles written by vet.'s and others saying only to use food grade plastics (the writers suggested any empty animal feed bins or large plastic "pickle" buckets etc.) to house water/anything living as others can release harmful chem's. Not sure the rate or how much though. Just want to be safe rather than sorry.

 

[darknes]

You may be right fishmamma. I tried to do some research on the topic, but couldn't find a decisive answer. It's best to be safe than sorry.
I still don't think many plastics can be harmful unless they are heated (which wouldn't be a problem for a sump).
I did come across a website that lists a few foodsafe plastics and a few to avoid:
http://www.thegreenguide.com/doc.mht...=saferplastics

 

[acekjd83]

i agree with darknes...
plastics are long polymers (chains of molecules) and are not going to fragment and contaminate your water. the production chemicals, however, may still be present, and should be removed before introduction to your system. the plastic buckets should be cured like live rock, just not necessarily as long. a day or two of saltwater will remove 99% of any harmful contaminants.
and dont microwave your sump, either. it could harm the things living in it.

 

[fishmamma]

Thanks Darknes I will check out that link. I would be using bins to mix saltwater in, temporary housing sight for acclimation/sick tank type stuff. I did use Rubbermaid bins intially to mix saltwater but have resorted using empty water jugs for the moment......I did a good rinse on everything (new buckets/bins) but didn't want to use any soap.