possibly very stupid DWC question...

Sorry for the noob question. I've done ebb and flow but never DWC. I was wondering if making a 1 site RDWC is a waste of time? Does RDWC out perform DWC? Does recirculating the nutes do anything when there is only one site? I was thinking of building an RDWC system but using a large enough motor that I could expand to 4 or 6 sites down the road. Would you recommend just going single DWC buckets at first?

you might as well run a single DWC bucket. RDWC just makes it easier to have a res and check multiple buckets from one central location.

If you're going to setup a RDWC you're gonna need to have mutiple buckets to allow the nutrients to actually recirculate. If you're just starting out I would create a small 2 site 1 control system whereby they're all connected via 2" pvc to allow for adequate flow. Use uniseals to make the connections water tight. And use black 5 gallon buckets that do not allow light into the res. Check the "rdwc" thread in this section of the forum for a detailed explanation including things you'll need and how to set the system up.

RDWC just makes it easier for you to changes out the solution, have a reservoir to keep the water levels in check so you don't have to constantly fill buckets and check PH for one buckets