Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I tried loop siphons on these, I think I had about 9 of them... viewtopic.php?f=18&t=160

Didn't really like them much, very erratic...

Hey all,

Thanks again for the help. I have instituted the next set of aquaponic reforms and I think I'm pretty close to the finish line. Thats a big system you have there earthbound - are you still using the loops The loop siphons seem to finally be functioning as required. I have as usual attached updated photos

What was changed;
- Removed the T connecting the two outflow pipes, separating them
- Added a gutter pipe to carry outflow, and also catch any overflow from barrels
- Put in a placeholder for a Radial Flow Filter (will finish that this week)
- Added a wicker bed for root veg seedlings for heavily sediment laden water from RFF
- Pond liner around the sides of wicking bed and AP to feed water to mushroom patch under the barrels

Results:
The barrels are now flooding and draining independently, they reach the same level consistently and the occassional overflow has stopped. The gutter has actually been great, it will become a second water feature in the pond with a few rocks and time, plus any spill over delivers water to the shrooms. Control valve on inflow seems to be a bit unessecary as simply lifting the hose a little higher or lower before it reaches the pond also allows me to adjust the rate of in flow.

Remaining issues:
1. Radial Flow Filter - I looked up a few DIY versions and they use a barrel to create the filter. I have a spare barrel, but there isn't enough space to fit the barrel in the AP area. Instead I want to use a 50-100L plastic storage tub that I can slide in between the AP and fence. Is that big enough for the effect to work?
2. Planting and water levels - Now that the barrels flood to a consistent level I can begin planting, but I need to add a little more media I think, the question I want to ask is how high show the water level be relative to the media level - should the water rise an inch or two above the level of the media, or should the water level rise to just under the media level - and how does this affect putting seedlings in?
3. (Cheeky chickens )

You should not see any water looking into the media so say 1 1/2" (this depends on media) otherwise you will encourage stem rot and algae.