Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hi SV, I just used ordinary potting mix (good quality) Dont forget the hole in the side to set water level.

Thanks

nice system. I've just started cycling mine

Thanks, yep Ive been watching your progess tcshad nice system

The brand is actually B4T (Built 4 trade) so it sounds like a cheap brand that is rebadged.
I can find out where it was purchased from if you like (if my dad remembers..)

Thats ok SV, Ill have a look on the net. Thanks for that

You mentioned that the fish are pretty slow now in the winter, what do you reckon the water temp is? I wonder if it would be worth setting up a simple solar water heater to get the fish moving and also speed up the bacteria growth? Something like black pipe in the sun to pump the water through?

The issue is keeping the heat in the system. You can heat, thats no secret but it comes at a cost. If you use the methods you have outlined you could raise the temp a few degrees only to loose that very quickly over night.

Charlie, wouldn't that still be better than no extra heat? Why not insulate the tank?

That's a good point. However, even if you can't keep the heat in overnight, would it still be beneficial for the water to be warmer than it otherwise would have been for at least some of the time?

Yea dont get me wrong Im not ruling it out all together, I suppose all Im saying is that solar type heating is no magic solution. The minimal heat generated through the day is quickly lost through the night.... including the bed. But as you say guys.... probably better than nothing.

If I lived in an extremely cold climate I would build something to house the entire system, members like DD and Rob (geodesic dome) live with this kind of stuff and its safe to say it isnt easy. These things cost.

Most heating options come with a price tag to boot unfortunately and Ive yet to read of a maintenance free, cheap and effective option.

Im optomistic though

It does not have to be minimal heat. The solar heater can be made as big as you want. I will be making my solar heater a lot bigger than it is.

Sorry to be blunt but Id imagine that would come at a cost. But yes I agree, that would be rather effective as a larger unit.

I hope it works out and I look forward to seeing it in action.

Well I have lots of old windows, and lumber from my house remodel. So my only expense will be the CPEX pipe. I also have some bigger water pumps already the one I have now barely pushes enough for the one I have now. So I should be able to build at least 4 more for less than a 100 dollars.

True enough... but pumping lots of heat into the fish tank... and then losing lots of heat through the night...

i.e... big temperature swings... is not good for your fish....

You can minimise your heat loss through the night... by insulating the fish tank... and not pumping through the grow beds at night....

But if you're not pumping at night.... you must supply supplementary aeration....