Welcome trailer park guy...

So, is the pvc set up some sort of ebb and flow?
If that is what it is I can see what you are doing there.
Looks neat.

It does look like some sort of popular mechanics op for sure.

You want to wait until you have atleast 5 alternating nodes.
Usually 8-12" or within 6 weeks.

The longer you veg the healthier the plants and the bigger and better the bud.

Happy growing..