Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

G'day all

Just a quick question about wheelie bins.

I note that the sides of the wheelie bins seem to bow when holding water. Has this been a problem for anyone? If it has been a problem what sort of time frame did the bins last?

The idea of using wheelie bins as fish tanks really appeals to me. (1) they are cheap ... or can be (2) they're on wheels


Oh yeah - Hi from Brisbane

Gday boxer

Can't remember if it was J7au or AM that had one burst on them.

Those two would be the best to answer your question.

You could always bury them (but I suppose the wheels wouldnt work so good!)

I'd like to see anybody move a wheelie bin full of water on its wheels...

I doubt that it'd be possible when the bin was full but it'd be possible to drain most of the water but leave enough for the fish?

Still that'd be a distant consideration to the one about the sides giving away (for me at least)

Would have to think that (normally) they must be pretty strong boxer....

mean to say this guy adds pressure to them ....

http://www.beerinabin.com.au/

The bins just hold the ice to keep the kegs cold. He doesn't actually dispense it from the bin. I have done this before when we need to keep the beer cold. Mount a wooden stand on the lid to attach the dispenser hose to... bobs your uncle- beer on tap!

I must admit it is a good business idea.... don't know how many people would like the idea of beer in a bin.

depends whether you ask straight away... or a couple of hours later

Sorry for the hijacl Boxer.... so easy to do....

Seriously I'd suggest PMing J7 .... he's the wheelie man

Hey Unfit, I have a wheelie bin that has stood outside my laundry for 3 years, acting as a sump between my washing machine and my vine and passionfruit garden. it is filled to almost overflowing, and gradually emptied by a 1/2" siphon about 3 times a week, is totally unsupported, and has not burst yet - and I picked it for the job because it was the oldest bin I had !! They are TOUGH !!

ived used one to catch rain water, not quite as longs as mick used his for (3 months max) and while it did bow a little it is a brand new bin (the old one was nicked when we moved in ) so if your bin is in good condition i dont see any probs using it

Cheers
Pete

If you're concerned of bursting,I would think you could pick up a pack of nylon cargo tie downs (cinch or ratchet) and wrap them around the bin at varying heights(like bands on a wooden barrel). They won't keep it from bowing, but they should keep it from bursting.

-Steve#2

Thanks all for the replies

I think I'll order the book/dvd before I play around to much. Still it's bin night coming up I believe someone has a new one .... hey Delgrade

You know if someone steals your bin the council will give a brand new one