Chloe Zhang
Blue plastic barrels are commonly used for composting and rain collection. One way to open a blue plastic barrel is to turn it upside down and insert piping through the bottom. At the end of the season, the barrels can be drained, and the bungs removed to access the inside of the barrel.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Size | 14-gallon, 55-gallon |
| Colour | Blue |
| Material | High-density polyethylene (HDPE) |
| Durability | Lightweight, weather and chemical resistant |
| Lid Colour | White |
| Lid Lock Mechanism | Plastic lever-lock band closure |
| Usage | For smaller non-damaged bottles, cans, carboys, and 5-gallon pails of non-leaking hazardous materials |
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What You'll Learn
Draining the barrel and removing the bungs
Draining a blue plastic barrel and removing the bungs is a straightforward process but requires some careful consideration. Firstly, it is important to ensure the barrel is accessed from the bottom, as this is where the piping is located. At the end of the season, or when the barrel is no longer needed, it is essential to drain the contents fully. This can be done by activating the appropriate valve or using an external pump to ensure the barrel is empty.
Once the barrel is drained, the bungs can be addressed. Bungs are often used to seal the openings of the barrel and can be challenging to remove, especially if the barrel has been in use for a long time. It is recommended to use appropriate tools to loosen the bungs, such as a wrench or pliers, but only if they can be used safely without damaging the barrel or causing injury.
If the bungs are difficult to access, it may be necessary to tip the barrel carefully to gain better access. This should be done with caution and preferably with the help of another person to steady the barrel and ensure it doesn't roll or cause spillage. Once the bungs are within reach, they can be carefully removed by hand or with the assistance of the tools mentioned above.
After removing the bungs, it is important to inspect the barrel for any signs of clogging or residue build-up, especially if it has been used for storing or transporting liquids. This can be done by shining a bright light into the opening and using a mirror to get a better view if needed. If any clogs are identified, they should be cleared to prevent future drainage issues.
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Using the barrel upside down
If you want to use your blue plastic barrel upside down, you will need to consider how to access the inside of the barrel for cleaning and maintenance. One way to do this is to drill a hole in the closed end of the barrel, which will become the top when it is upside down. The size of the hole will depend on the tools you have available and the size of your arm. Ideally, the hole will be just large enough for you to fit your arm through, so you can reach the inside and clean it periodically.
You could also consider cutting a larger hole or even removing the entire closed end of the barrel. This will make it easier to access the inside of the barrel and may be useful if you need to fit larger items inside. However, removing the entire end will require more work and may weaken the structure of the barrel. If you do cut a large hole or remove the end, you may need to reinforce the edges to ensure the barrel remains sturdy and durable.
When using the barrel upside down, you will also need to consider how to secure it in place. The open end of the barrel, which will now be facing downwards, can be used to attach pipes or hoses for various applications. For example, if you are using the barrel as a water reservoir, you can attach a hose to the open end to direct the water flow as needed. Ensure that any connections are tight and secure to prevent leaks.
Additionally, consider adding a valve or tap to control the flow of liquids or other contents. This will allow you to easily empty or fill the barrel as needed. You can find various types of valves and taps online or at hardware stores, and they can be attached to the open end of the barrel or inserted through a hole drilled in the side near the bottom.
Finally, remember to take the necessary safety precautions when working with plastic barrels. Wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when cutting or drilling the barrel. Be cautious of sharp edges and always supervise children and pets when working with power tools or sharp objects.
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Accessing the bottom of the barrel
Accessing the bottom of a blue plastic barrel may require different approaches depending on the type of barrel you have and what you intend to use it for. Some blue plastic barrels are designed for specific purposes, such as storing oil or rainwater collection, and may have unique features or requirements for opening and accessing their contents. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for accessing the bottom of a blue plastic barrel:
Identify the Type of Barrel:
First, it's important to identify the type of barrel you have. Blue plastic barrels can vary in terms of their design, material thickness, and intended purpose. Some barrels may have specific features or modifications that influence how you access their contents. For example, a barrel intended for rainwater collection may have additional holes drilled into the sides or bottom for spigots or drainage. Understanding the specific characteristics of your barrel will help you choose the most appropriate method for accessing its bottom.
Locate the Bung Holes:
Plastic barrels typically have two bung holes, which are the openings used to access their contents. These holes are usually located on the top of the barrel and are covered with caps. Before attempting to open the barrel, make sure you have identified these bung holes, as they will be the primary access points.
Remove the Caps:
To access the inside of the barrel, you will need to remove the caps from the bung holes. This can be done using a drum wrench or a pair of pliers. Grip the caps tightly with your chosen tool and turn them counterclockwise to loosen and remove them. If you don't have a drum wrench, you can use alternative tools like pliers or a pipe wrench to achieve the same result. Be careful not to drop the caps inside the barrel during this process.
Release Internal Pressure:
If the barrel has been sealed for a long period, there may be pressure buildup inside. Before opening the bung holes, gently tap them with a rubber mallet or a similar tool to release the pressure gradually. This will prevent the contents from splashing out when you fully open the barrel.
Accessing the Bottom:
Once the caps are removed, you can insert tools or implements through the bung holes to access the bottom of the barrel. Depending on the contents and your intended use, you may need to use a pump, siphon, or other compatible tools. If you need to reach the bottom manually, ensure that your hands can fit through the bung holes or consider using long-handled implements designed for this purpose.
Cutting and Modifying the Barrel:
In some cases, you may need to modify the barrel to access its bottom more easily. Some people choose to cut a square hole in the top of the barrel and add hinges and a handle for easier access. Alternatively, you can drill a series of holes around the barrel to make it easier to cut through the plastic. This can be done with a jigsaw, a reciprocating saw, or a saber saw, depending on what tools are available to you. Remember that cutting and modifying the barrel may affect its structural integrity and ability to hold liquids.
Remember to prioritize safety during the entire process. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, handle the barrel with care, and be cautious of any sharp edges created during the cutting process.
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Screening off the downspout opening
There are several screening options available:
- Leaf screens and leaf guards that can be affixed to the gutter.
- Funnel-type downspout filters with built-in screens.
- Strainer baskets that fit over the exterior of the downspout.
- A small square of screen can be placed over the hose adapter to prevent mosquitoes from entering the barrel.
- A larger piece of screen can be cut to fit under the screw-top lid, which will screw over the screen and be fairly secure.
When selecting a screen, it is important to avoid using a metal screen as it will have sharp edges. Instead, opt for a fiberglass screen that is durable and safe.
Additionally, if you are using a pickle barrel, you can leave the insert below the screw top in place and drill larger holes through the insert to allow water to filter in and provide a stronger surface. In this case, the screen would be placed between the insert and the screw top.
By following these steps and selecting the appropriate screening options, you can effectively screen off the downspout opening of a blue plastic barrel, ensuring that it is both functional and safe.
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Fitting your hands inside
To open a blue plastic barrel by fitting your hands inside, you must first ensure that the barrel is empty. If the barrel is full, you will not be able to turn it upside down and drain it. Once it is empty, you can attempt to remove the bung by hand. If the bung is too tight, you can try using a pair of pliers to grip the bolt on the bung cap and turn it counterclockwise to loosen it.
If you are unable to remove the bung by hand or with pliers, you may need to use a tool to pry it off. A screwdriver and hammer can be used to gently ease the bung cap off by prying it upwards while tapping it with the hammer. Alternatively, a crowbar can be used as a prying tool. If you are concerned about noise, be aware that using a crowbar may be noisy if the ring breaks or clatters to the floor.
If you are unable to remove the bung using the methods described above, you may need to cut the lid off. This can be done using a handsaw, jigsaw, or reciprocating saw. Start by drilling a hole in the lid, then use your chosen saw to cut around the lid. Be aware that using a handsaw can be difficult and may dull the blade. A reciprocating saw is recommended as the best tool for this task.
When cutting the lid off, it is important to cut in the proper area to maintain the strength of the barrel. Cut in the area where the side of the barrel tapers to its smallest point near the top. Cutting above this point will result in a stronger cut, but it will require more effort. Be careful not to cut too high, or you may cut above the actual lid portion.
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Frequently asked questions
You can turn the barrel upside down and insert piping through the bottom. At the end of the season, you can drain the barrel, remove the bungs, and access the bottom.
If your hand cannot fit into the bung, try draining the barrel and then removing the bungs at the end of the season when the barrel is empty.
If the barrel is clogged, try screening off the opening of the downspout at the gutter before draining the barrel and removing the bungs.
Yes, you can use any type of piping that fits through the bottom of the barrel.
