Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hi Guys,

I had a system in my old house with a 40GPH fish pump, but I didn't like the flow rate and how quickly it came out the tubing. I am making a new system now with a 100 gallon tank and slightly bigger GB, but:

From what I've read I need to cycle the fish tank's water at least once per hour

If I were to put a valve on the output to restrict flow I wouldn't reach that number.

Maybe now that I am doing a bigger GB and tank this won't be an issue?

Should I be looking into a new pump for this system?

Any info would be appreciated

Thanks

Pete

It is an aim to turn over the volume of your fish tank once per hour. Your system may function perfectly fine at less than that.

It is not recommended to restrict your pump but if you need to reduce its output install a T and divert some of the water back to the fish tank. The diverted pipe may need a tap on it to make sure most of the flow goes to your growbed.

Thank you very much!

If the water is coming out out of the tip too fast (like a tap), then you can increase the pipe size, it won't slow down the volume at all, but it'll make it come out in a better flow rate (not messing up the media).

I think CBB means velocity / pressure. Flow rate is 'basically' same (less some minor energy/fluid related losses).

Arbes suggestion is good and works well.

The other option is to simply have multiple outlets into the GB and use T's to break the flow up.
You can go to four outlets and quarter the flow out of each along with a slightly larger diameter pipe.
eg. normal to take a 15mm or 20mm feed pipe up to 25mm/32mm/40mm etc at a T which will back the pressure off. Even with small pond pumps using a 15mm threaded T to 15mm-25mm pipe works a treat.

or put a PVC ring around the bed and simply drill in many 8-10mm holes.
(like in the IBC of aquaponics). Your flow rate will help get water around whole GB then.

Hello!! I am also having a bit of problems with the water flow... sometimes it works... sometimes it doesn't.. what happens is that it drains too much... the water never stops in one of the siphons... - Better see through my videos - https://www.facebook.com/Aquaponics-by- ... 249969651/

Does someone have any tip?
Thanks..
Rita

Hi Rita

see this thread viewtopic.php?f=1&t=26186

Mr Damage sums it up with.....

It's all about water flow...

If the siphon won't go the flow is too slow!
If the siphon won't cease, the flow must decrease!