What can I use a an ATO container?

[reefermad619]

I'm in the process of setting up my tank and need an ATO container. Can I use any plastic container? I would really like to use a small trash can/waste basket like one would use in a bathroom. Are these OK? I've got limited space in my sump area, 10"L x 15W" x 20"H. Can anyone suggest anything short of having a custom tank made? Thanks.

[mfinn]

It doesn't have to go under the stand. I have my ATO container ( 20 gallon garbage can) 12' away out in my garage.

[sedor]

I use a 5G bucket under my stand.

mfinn, how did you plumb the reservoir into the system? Is the sump in the garage too? I used to have my old tank plumbed into a closet right next to it and I could get away with using a 20G trash can, but where my new tank is I don't have that option. I'm assuming you added the plumbing in the wall. Unfortunately not all of us have those kind of handyman skills

[gonpostal]

You can use a small trash can. Any plastic container should be fine. I'm using a plastic container that I picked up at Lowes. The one I use is around 16x12x10, and holds about 7 gallons. I cut a hole in the lid for the ATO pump, and leave the lid on for evaporation and to keep the water clean. If you live near Lowes or Home Depot, check the aisle where they keep the plastic storage bins, they have a bunch of different sizes. I'd wash it out first to get rid of any kind of film from manufacturing.

[mfinn]

Originally Posted by sedor

I use a 5G bucket under my stand.

mfinn, how did you plumb the reservoir into the system? Is the sump in the garage too? I used to have my old tank plumbed into a closet right next to it and I could get away with using a 20G trash can, but where my new tank is I don't have that option. I'm assuming you added the plumbing in the wall. Unfortunately not all of us have those kind of handyman skills

I use the ATO topoff system. One float is in the sump in the stand and the other float is in the garbage container/resevoir in the garage. I just ran a 12' long tube connected to a maxijet 1200.
I had to drill a hole in the wall to run the tube through, but I already had a couple holes because I put my chiller out on my patio, which is about 15' to it.

[chuckstyl5]

[URL="http://www.campmor.com/wcsstore/Campmor/static/images/kitchen/85259.jpg"]

it works great

[driftin]

I also use a 5-gallon bucket. Some plastic containers will leach phosphates. Let water sit in it for a few days or a week and test before connecting it to your system.

[reefermad619]

Thanks for the suggestions. I've got one of those blue containers in my garage! I'll see if I can fnd it, then see if it fits. My ato Has to be under tank. I've got to go through 3 walls to get to my garage. The tank will be in my living room and will be visible from three sides. Everything must be inside the stand.

[ReefTeacher]

I use an old salt bucket, you can put it in the stand or leave it outside.