What do you think about air pumps

GpsFrontier · #1 03-09-2009, 03:01 AM

I am new to actually doing Hydroponics but have been interested in it for years.
I just put together two different systems, one uses pvc, two liter bottles and a reservoir like Ron's 11 plant system. The other one is a 32 plant system with baskets that suspend over a holding tank and both systems are ebb-and-flow design. But my question is, I haven't seen anyone talking about Air pumps for oxygenating the nutrient solution in the reservoir. Any thoughts, is it worth the electricity?

Mathmattx · #2 03-11-2009, 02:00 AM

Unless your changing your nutrient every week or so, it does not hurt to oxegenate it. Helps in uptake and more importantly keeps nutrient from stagnating. Keeping the nutrient well oxygenated also swings the microbial equilibrium in factor of the beneficial microbes in the nutrient, as does starting with a clean system and equipment. So, start with clean system (i.e, 10% bleach clean out, rinse, fill then oxogenate nutrient.

Brian · #3 03-11-2009, 08:19 AM

what kind of pumps would you recommend to start with?

GpsFrontier · #4 03-11-2009, 03:45 PM

My air pump is for fish tanks and says it is for 30-60 gallon fish tanks. I got it from Wal-Mart. I live in Lake Havasu AZ. and because it gets so hot here most of the year the electric bill is already very high. So I am still wondering if it uses more electricity than it is beneficial to the plants.

Mathmattx · #5 03-11-2009, 04:46 PM

If your pinching pennies that tight probably should find a new hobby

. The air pump is probably costing a dollar or two a month to run. There are several sites, or some simple math to use to determine whAt it is costing to run it. You just need to know what you are paying per kwh...look on your bill or call utility provider

GpsFrontier · #6 03-11-2009, 05:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mathmattx

If your pinching pennies that tight probably should find a new hobby

. The air pump is probably costing a dollar or two a month to run. There are several sites, or some simple math to use to determine whAt it is costing to run it. You just need to know what you are paying per kwh...look on your bill or call utility provider

I don't appreciate the Dig at me. I just started the pumps 3 water and 1 air this week so I am unfamiliar with many aspects of Hydroponics. As far as the electric bill during the summer time when the temp reaches 125-130 degrees during the day and 95-105 degrees at night the electric bill can reach over $700 a month. I don't know how many pennies you have but that is a lot of pennies to me, so excuse me for asking.