Hey guys,
I had a question as to whether or not anyone knows of a place where I can get a cheap cycle timer? I just built a 6 plant aeroponic setup and I'm ready to go, but it is to my understanding that the roots of the plants, depending on their growth stage, need be sprayed with nutrient water something like 30-60 seconds on and 5-7 minutes off? I have searched for a cycle timer all over the internet, but I can't seem to find one for less than like $70... Is there a cheaper alternative?

__________________
Do it up!

You dont need a cycle timer . You run the pump 24-7 all day long no need to turn it off unless you bought 50 micron ultra atomize sprayers or finer.Just set it up turn it on and let it go. Wathc your ppm and keep the ph at 5.5-5.8 and res water temp around 65-70 max

If you run your pump 24/7 in a small system, it will generate lots of heat and cook your nutes and cause root rot. Unfortunately, I have not found an alternative to the overpriced aero timers. So unless your floor is ice cold, I'd suggest the rip-off timer.

im pretty sure fletch would know what he is talking about. him and earl are the aero kings around here

You can buy a timer from walmart for $10.
They have regular timers, with 10 minute intervals.

Run 30 minutes on and 30 minutes off.
or 10 min on and 30 off.

You can run 24/7 also,
but it is good to let the roots air out.

I start off running 24/7 for the first couple of weeks,
and then start allowing more time off.

Near the end I run 10 on 60 off.

If your pump is adding heat to your rez,
then you should consider mounting it externally.

.

I'd love to see a pic of a homemade 6-plant aero system with an external water pump. Anyone?

Awsome.... thanks everyone

__________________
Do it up!

Mounting the pump exteranlly is not a problem.
You need some 1/2" bulkhead fittings, and a pvc union.