55 Gallon Drum Water Mixing Station

[User]

sorry, yes, what would you like to know? I'll be glad to share anything. Sorry for the delayed response, was camping with family! I did end up with a smaller footprint and really was trying to limit space so it is pretty tight. Here's a couple more pictures.

Just saw you replied- thanks for the additional pictures.

Specifically, I’m wondering if you have the shelf attached to the legs with screws, or if they are sitting on top of a second 2x4 upright I can’t quite see in the pic.

In the first method, all the weight is taken on the fasteners. In the second, the weight is transferred to the ground via the 2x4 .

And it looks like you have your pump just suspended off the pvc? That’s neat- never thought of doing that.

 

[AquaDaddy]

Just saw you replied- thanks for the additional pictures.

Specifically, I’m wondering if you have the shelf attached to the legs with screws, or if they are sitting on top of a second 2x4 upright I can’t quite see in the pic.

In the first method, all the weight is taken on the fasteners. In the second, the weight is transferred to the ground via the 2x4 .

And it looks like you have your pump just suspended off the pvc? That’s neat- never thought of doing that.

I basically built two 2x4 boxes and then used 3/8 bolts at each corner bolting them to the 2x4s. I debated on which way to go as I was really trying to keep it small. I used enough bolts to feel it's totally safe. I also have a 3/4" plywood piece on the back and sides which provides the lateral stability and a place to mount the RODI unit.

I do have the pump just suspended by the PVC, but honestly I wouldn't recommend it. I'm sure it's putting undue stress on the PVC. I just didn't know what pump I was going to end up using. Right now what's there is a bit too slow pumping the 50' to my tank, but still better than hauling water. I do have a RODI drain but that's to fill 5 gallon jugs for ATO and when mixing 2 part and such.

 

[eb_reef]

This is a picture of my very first mixing station where I used Brutes. You'll need some uniseals and a piece of clear PVC tubing (I used rigid tubing). Once installed, near the bottom running to the top, start filling the barrels and the water becomes visible in the clear tube. I did it 5 gallons at a time and then marked the clear tube. Put the next five gallons in and marked it again. So every black line you see on the clear tube is 5 gallons. It worked out great.

Did you have any trouble with algae growth with the clear tube? How long did your water sit in the tank before you had to refill?

 

[dbl]

Did you have any trouble with algae growth with the clear tube? How long did your water sit in the tank before you had to refill?

Never an algae issue. I pretty much kept the tanks (both fresh and salt) full most of the time.

 

[AquaDaddy]

I have a clear tube as well, but am changing time rigid and will totally mark it as you have.

 

[AquaDaddy]

Never an algae issue. I pretty much kept the tanks (both fresh and salt) full most of the time.

I've never had an algae issue either. I do keep a heater and a medium flow power head in the salt container constantly going.