AP System Design

[urbanfarmer]

I look forward to the photos!

[Oliver]

John,

As many here know, I am an advocate for simplicity. What I would do to change your design would be to eliminate the swirl/bio-filter, run the water pump lines directly to the grow beds through control valves. Return the extra water from the pump to the fish tank under pressure through a reduced (end cap with drilled hole) outlet, thereby jetting some water back into the fish tank for added aeration. This modified arrangement will require ample pumping power. You will need the extra water flow in order to purge the lines running to the grow beds every few days to remove accumulated fish solids by fully opening the valves to the grow beds.

Be sure to use ball valves and not gate valves. We have learned that even though gate valves give you a finer increment of adjustment when setting the flow into the grow beds, they don't remain where you set them; and they are more expensive. With ball valves, the flow remains constant as long as the pressure doesn't change.

Make sure that your grow beds (and now bio-filters) are 12 inches deep and filled with media (I prefer Hydroton, but gravel will work) to allow the fish solids to break down over time in the grow beds. This will give your plants extra nutrients and reduce your work load and wasted water. For this to work, it requires ample aeration.

This design is all spelled out in Aquaponics 101, located on this forum, including sizing your air and water pumps.

It is important that your fish tank receives ample light, as Tilapia do better with light. Do not be concerned with algae growth in the fish tank from the light, for the Tilapia will eat it unless they are being over fed.

Oliver

[jmalone68]

Thanks for all the good info Oliver,

You've pretty much confirmed the path I should take. My original design didn't include the filter and I'll give it a pass unless I need it down the track. e.g. I want to 'overstock' with fish.
Good to know about the ball valves.
My grow bed design is 12" so that matches you comments. Nice!
Good to know about the light requirements too. I don't think that will be a problem here in AZ as we have PLENTY of light. I am concerned about the water getting too hot here, thus the shading by the grow beds and also one reason for sinking the fish tank in to the ground.

I've read hours and hours of forums and how-tos, and I think it's about time to start piecing some lumber together.

Once again,
Thanks

[HotPonics]

Hot damn!

That's some serious AP Pron right there!

Simple and cheap, every DIY'ers dream

[rfeiller]

welcome hotponics to the forum

[HotPonics]

welcome hotponics to the forum

Thanks much!
Looking forward to getting going on my own setup.

Currently on hold till I've moved into our new home, but am living vicariously through my bud John

[jmalone68]

Hello All,

I'm nearing completion of the construction stage of my AP system and have a couple of questions.

1) Does anyone know where do to get fish-safe pond liner in Phoenix, AZ area at a decent price? I need 15' x 20'

2) Do you have a preference for a pump. I'm looking at a Quiet One 3000.
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...m?pcatid=23814

All input greatly appreciated.
John

[Bioritize]

I recommend the Danner pumps. The MD 12 only uses about 70 watts.

http://www.aquaticeco.com/subcategor...mp-250-gph-24W You can find them here.

[stucco]

Home depot has EPDM liners by the foot.
+1 on the danner pump. The quiet one 3000 is junk.

[foodchain]

Anybody know whatever came out of this? Would be nice to see an update.