Using shopvac to create vacuum in storage tote as a temp solution

[elitts]

So, I've got trees tapped and lines running into a couple of barrels. But I didn't think to much about the fact that the 1.2 gpm pump that I have isn't going to be effective for transferring 50 gallons of sap from the barrels to a tote. So now I'm considering a setup using my shop vac instead for this year.

I'd run food safe tube (3/4" or 1") from the barrel to the tote. Use wood or plastic to seal the tube into the tote, sticking down 6"-8". Then run the hose for my shop vac into the top of the tote also, sealing the opening around the two hose and tube figuring the suction should evacuate the air from the tote first, then start pulling fluid from the barrel.

My goal would of course be for none of the sap to ever come in contact with any part of the shopvac.

Anything wrong with the concept that anyone can see?

Anyone have a better and simpler (and close to free) idea? I'm within extension cord range from my house so I know I have a little bit more flexibility than if I was trying to do this with battery power.

[Chickenman]

I think your tote would collapse before it drew any sap into it.

[fisheatingbagel]

I think you'll burn up your shop vac also.

I have the same setup as you, and use a bilge pump (never used in a bilge) to pump from barrel to tote. I realize it's not food grade, but never had any issues with taste, etc.

[smokeyamber]

+ 1 on the bilge pump, a Ruhl 800 or a reasonable copy is what I use to transfer all my stuff from barrel to barrel and to the head tank. It is kinda slow, but barrel to barrel I just start it and go do something else, the pumps are not affected by running dry. This season I may test a sump pump ( new ) as a faster transfer method, but it needs 110v. The sumps use 12v so you could run off a car or battery if needed.

[fisheatingbagel]

I have the output of my bilge pump connected to a length of pvc pipe; the hose is then attached to the other end. This makes it easy to drop into a barrel and down to the bottom.

[elitts]

Bilge pump it is then. Thank-you!!

[Icefisher]

19671

Have been very impressed with this little pump especially for $14. Empties a 50gal barrel in a few minutes