Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I'm looking to get some totes in the next few days and was wondering if anyone has had any problems with using used food grade totes. I've read some places that because the tank is the life-blood of the operation it's best to buy a brand new one. But most people seem to not have had problems after a good cleaning. Any advice would be helpful.

Thanks,

Hi there!

I think the answers to this question falls into the realm of 'opinions' more than fact.

From what I know and read -by no means an expert - I would do this:

1) Figure out the prices for which you can get new and used IBC. As an example, here in Vancouver, BC, Canada, I called around and got a price of $300+ for a new tote (and recycled cage), and for food grade recycled tote and cage from craigslist, I got a price in the range of $100 - $250.

2) If buying used, talk to the person selling it to find out what was in the container. Don't just take their word for it though. Typically the IBC will have a label for contents, or MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet). Read it, and if need be, research online for the ingredients and/or call the company that had the contents in it. Then decide if it safe to use

3) Once you have determined 1) and 2), decide if the ratio of price vs risk is worth it or not. So, for instance, if you are ultra concerned, and cannot find used IBC such that you can have a label that guarantees you it had food based substance in it, then go and buy new. If you can have the labels, talked to the reseller of the IBC and are confident in your research and need/want to save money, buy used.

I think most of us come to the right conclusion doing some sort of juggle of the above points.

Makes sense?

Good luck with your system and journey. I am just about to start building a 4000L FT ~3000L GB system in my existing greenhouse. just bought 4 IBCs this past weekend. Am quite excited about it!