Maintenance of the hydroponic system
Whatever the technique of cultivation hygiene is always important.
In hydroponic systems special attention should be paid to the nutrient solution, which must be replaced regularly to avoid accumulation of salts, dirt and pathogens. Normally the discharge should be done about every two weeks, three if you work with reverse osmosis water, one in the case of brackish water.
The intense heat may necessitate more frequent replacement parts.
The emptying of the system can be difficult, usually taking place under these schemes:
-The tube that leads from the pump to the irrigation system is equipped with a valve in line with the ability to divert the flow toward a third exhaust pipe.
-The tank has a slope on the bottom at the end of which there is an exhaust valve. Opening the valve the water flows through the force of gravity.
-Use of a "bilge pump", practical and light can be immersed in the tank at the time of need by connecting it to a pipe prepared for unloading. Unfortunately this type of pumps always leave a stagnation of about one centimeter on the bottom, but can be used in association with the previous method.
The residual nutrient solution can be used in your garden to take advantage of the nutrients remain, but not be dispersed into the drains in the sand or in general in the environment as harmful to the environment.
Emptying the tank will take the opportunity for a good general cleaning, rinsing carefully pipes, filters, pumps and sprinklers. The substrate and the roots are subject to accumulation of salt and limestone will be washed.
To make the most of it goes like this. After draining the system and manually remove any visible dirt or buildup, you fill the tank with clean water at low pH (value around 5-6. Osmotic water does not need corrections) and activates the pump, leaving the ' water flow and clean up everything.
If the substrate is accessible can be washed with a rubber garden.
The cleaning will be guaranteed by the EC value of the wastewater, which must not be much greater than + 0.5ms compared to that used to rinse.
There are several special products for the hygiene facilities to be used during maintenance or during the normal growing cycle to prevent fouling.
Between a cycle and the other will be particularly deep cleaning and removal of all material, thorough washing of the substrate with acidic water (pH 5 or less), disassembly and inspection of small parts, use a disinfectant (chlorine or hydrogen peroxide solution ) and final rinse.
Times and procedures depend on the type and size of the system.
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Tags: management growroom , guides , hydroponics , indoor gardening
September 9th, 2010 at 12:47
I found it very well with a product of algae, clean and clean by removing algae and fungi. I suggest you clean your system at least once every 2 weeks and 1 to change the nutrient solution at least 1 time every 10 days.