Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I have built what looks to be an absolutely perfect bell siphon. The first time I put it on it started working in a matter of seconds and then repeatedly worked. However, in time, it has started not working on a consistent basis. If I go over and move it around the gravel guard or take it out completely and replace it, it works then.

Any suggestions?

Can you explain the design of your system or do you have pics?

Bit hard to give advice without knowing your system.

When you say it's "not working"... what happens???

Sounds like it's a flow problem...

If it doesn't start not enough flow and if it takes to long to stop a little bit ro much and if it doesn't stop way to much flow. My systems all f&d but after being slightly annoyed and it being slightly problematic I run constant flood and chuck the bells once a week or so just for Shits and giggles

I think it's working now. I drilled some additional holes in the bottom of the siphon to increase water flow and everything appears to be in order.
Thank you.

Oh, and it's a simple IBC grow bed over fish tank set up. I tried to attach some pictures but to no avail.

If you've drilled holes in the standpipe... and it's a simple grow bed of an IBC....

Then why not just rip the bell off... and run it as a timed F&D... save yourself the dramas...

I think he means he drilled more holes in the base of the bell Rupe!

yea thats how I understood it.... possibly didnt have large enough flow through the bottom of the actual bell?

That's correct...I drilled more holes in the bell, not the standpipe of course. I had cut "teeth" out of the bottom of the bell and apparently it wasn't getting enough flow. I simply drilled 4 or 5 small holes to increase flow and it's working like a charm!

I'm still going to see if I can get some pictures on here...

I'm having trouble with the temperature of my fishtank down. It's been 80+F due to the hot weather. Are there effective and economical ways to cool the water temperature? Also, are there certain breeds of fish or other creatures that can tolerate higher temperatures?

Trying to attach some photos again.

What kind of fish? Most fish are fine at 80F water temp.

We are just going to start with a bunch of goldfish for our first run at this and everything I've read says they really do better below 70F.

Catfish are more tolerant of higher temp water I know but they are harder to come by.

Bluegill and Catfish would probably be the easiest and they are more tolerant of the cold in Winter than some fish would be. The catfish might be easier. If you aren't planning on eating the fish then goldfish, koi and similar are a good choice. Looks like you are on the right track. Have you checked out the private hatcheries in Iowa - http://www.iowadnr.gov/Portals/idnr/uploads/fish/programs/files/fishforsale2008.pdf

I haven't checked that out, but thanks! Looks like they have a lot of fish to offer! I'm not as concerned about the cold in the winter as I can keep things pretty warm, but I'm more concerned about the heat as my system is set up inside my barn and it tends to get very warm.