Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Actually, I have just set up my timer and it has 15 minute intervals. That means I can have 30 minute drain cycle (off) and 45 minute flood cylce (on) which basically matches the timings I took.

Will take a picture of the "Standard" HPM's they have built in "sticks", one every 15mins

Probably similar to my arlec then.

Here it is - set for 30 mins on (2 pins down) then 45 minutes off (3 pins up). Was able to see a full cycle tonight while I was planting. Worked well - though the flood cycle is probably only taking 35-40 mins - so just runs into standpipe for 5-10 mins at end of cycle.

yep, same type

Same basic deal here too.

Joyce,


Before buying a timer you need to balance the flow rates between the head and sump pumps, do this:

Switch pumps between the sump and head. Put the 3100 gph pump at the head, the 2000 gph pump at the sump.

Increase the flow from the head pump to the growbeds so that your growbed drain output/sump input is at 2000 gph, or 33 gallons per minute.

The effect you need to achieve is continuous sump pump duty (no switching on/off ) until growbeds are completely drained.

Once you’ve achieved harmonious balance between the two pumps, then you are ready for a timer, OR you can use the float switch at the head to activate the cycle.

Or, restrict the outflow of the growbeds and get a smaller sump pump that matches the outflow rate at the growbeds. It appears you are not running a flood and drain system, yet your grow beds are set up for flood drain? How do you prefer to water?

Everything is running now, but still working on slowing the flow down a bit. It is so hard to believe that such a small amount of water coming out of each little hole into the grow bed can produce such a large amount of water. Now I know when the faucet drips why the water bill goes sky high. The extra filtration of the grow beds has improved the quality of the water also. The tanks looks like a beautiful stream, clear and fresh. I can see the fish better than ever.

Well, I should write a note on aquaponics anonymous, and will later. We have sold our 1955 converted bus and all I can think of is what I can due with the fish. Sad shape I am in now. So, I will be gone for about 8-9 days, unless I can find a computer along the way. We are delivering the bus to a guy in Montana, About 2,500 miles or 4022.5 km. If we push it we should be there in 3 days, flying back on the 22nd.

I wonder how long it will take to catch up on all the posts, as I hate even going 8 hrs. with out loging on.

Have a nice trip Joyce, I'll keep all these forumers on topic while you're away

Thanks EKB, I knew I could count on you.

Don't rush it Joyce, take it easy!

Rush, me, never.

We'll all still be here......... Enjoy....

so will 450 posts