its better if you have access to clean the buckets (as stated before). i dont even understand how your system works, in your original post you stated you full the 5 gal jug with hydroton correct? why wouldnt you just get a 5 gal bucket put a net pot in the top with a air stone in the bottom and call it good? it doesnt cost anymore than you are already spending lol, i dont understand why you are planning on taking 2 steps back with a pretty fool proof, simple, easy to operate hydroponic system. i see more and more people on this site trying to re-invent the wheel and there is really no need in this case, one of the great things about a 5 gal bubble bucket imo is you use much less medium to hold the actual plant (hints only water and nutes in the 5 gal bucket) just follow the book on this type of system and you will get good results.