New to Hydroponics - Want to Build a System With a Budget of $650

[GpsFrontier]

Sorry I just saw this post after I already posted.

Originally Posted by FalseFlash

Damn, I just tested it with a hose. There is a slight bend in the middle of the pipes that's causing it to gather at one end. No matter how much I try to level it the system just won't work right.

I guess I went too cheap on the big pipe.

Is there a way to fix this so I don't lose $380?

Do you have a picture of what you are talking about? I don't know if you are talking about bowing in the center from weight, or leaking from cut holes that aren't in a straight line. Bowing is easy to fix with the right support and leveling, and is cheep compared to using slightly more rigid PVC. But holes that were cut uneven cant be fixed without lowering the water level in the tubes so it doesn't rise above the lowest point of opening. Even 4 inch scheduled 40 PVC will bend under minimal weight, You need to build a suitable support system regardless what pipe you choose to use.

Why spend more money on scheduled 40 PVC, and it isn't even light proof yet. Costing you more money to light proof, and it still flexes under weight anyway. The only pipe that wont flex is steel, and that's unstable for hydroponics. Even the very expensive schedule 80 PVC will flex in 10 foot spans with no support in the middle.

[FalseFlash]

I will be using this as NFT with net pots. The pipe is like bowing upwards.

Also, I was a bit off on the drain, the line should of been on right before the pipes in the center. Sorry about that, I only slept 2 hours or so.

Here is a picture, not the greatest picture but it will give you an idea. You can defiantly tell I had no idea what I was doing lol

[FalseFlash]

If it comes down to it maybe it could be converted to a flood and drain if it's too bad?

[FalseFlash]

Okay, I got it a bit more level. The valve is not going to work like you said, its deeper on one side and shallow on the other where the valve is.

I'll wait for your reply before I do anything else.

[fintuckyfarms]

It is easy to convert, Just need a timer, some medium like pea gravel or perlite and a different drain. Guess I thought you were going for something closer to what I did. BUT I have learned that the more mistakes you make the more you learn so don't feel to bad. GPS Frontier is awesome and should be able to come up with something.

[FalseFlash]

-see bottom post-

[FalseFlash]

Good news, I got the system working with the help of my dad and grandfather.

I'm able to control the water level with the valve you seen in one of my other posts. That is great since I really didn't know where to start for the overflow pipe.

Since it's on grass I may need to adjust the level often, this winter I will build a compact version in a grow tent in my basement.

I will post some pictures most likely tomorrow.