Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

What size air pump do I need for my new system? 200 gal sump, 225 FT, appx 50 cu ft GB, 32 sq ft FRS, and eventually 8-10 vertical towers. I will expand on the GB's in the Fall. Fish will be tilapia and I'll start with fingerlings. Figure 45-50 to start. I have seen systems using venturis for additional air- is this adequate. I'm thinking a dual 12v/120 volt pump in case the grid power goes out. Thoughts please.

Hi, I'm setting up my aquaponics system ... I'm at a much earlier stage than you ... I'm trying to sort out drainage for grow beds ... all my plants are either seedlings, cuttings or in pots. I am finding this YouTube video helpful and inspirational: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBspR2p0 ... 327752AFC5 I don't know if it will help you ? I would like to ask you what you need the air pump for? Surely, if you have 8-10 towers, they must be outside and so you would not need an air pump? I'm at a much earlier stage than you are and I registered only today ... hoping that I would be able to learn more than from searches on my own I don't understand why you would need an air pump ? Is it for the fish ? because I thought that thing was called an aerator?

SYA, air pump for fist tank, sump, which I also have a few talapia in and DWC bed, which I'm growing lettuce/greens in. I have 2 -6" disc stones, 1 in FT, 1 in sump, getting three small air stones for DWC bed and then have small stone "spare", that I use when I get any additional fish. For the transition process. Since I received no replies, I purchased a 3.1CFM unit which received high ratings and is rebuildable. It seems to be working fine, and provides me adequate aeration.