Rdwc / Pump question etc

cwillis11b

cwillis11b

Member
Hello all,

Starting my 1st rdwc system with 4 5 gallon buckets. 27 Gallon reservoir tote. I have 2 questions.

1. What size water pump do I need at a minimum, and better, what size pump,will give me the best results? Gallon per hour, brand etc.. any links to what you could recommend would be greatly appreciated.

2. Now, I’m a newbie, this question I can’t figure out. In a rdwc system, how do you keep the water levels the same throughout all 4 buckets? Like how do you make sure the water level line is the same throughout all 4 buckets and adjust them.

Appreciate any advice on this, getting soon to transplant from rapid rooters from. Rapid rooters to buckets.
 
Basic hydraulics-water levels in a connected system will always try to maintain the same level. My basic 8 bucket RDWC system had a eco396 pond pump plumbed to a 1/2" pvc pipe with 1/8" nipples for each bucket. Simple drip hose pumped into the buckets and 1/2" barb fitting through rubber grommets in each bucket formed the returns back to the rez. My UC system I run now is similar, just 4 totes circulating through 2" pipe.
You'll need to build the system and then test how much fluid you need to maintain a good level with the pump in operation. RDWC is a step up but it can have problems-feed lines can get clogged and drains may block for roots so plan for some containment if you get a spill.
 
GBAUTO said:
Basic hydraulics-water levels in a connected system will always try to maintain the same level. My basic 8 bucket RDWC system had a eco396 pond pump plumbed to a 1/2" pvc pipe with 1/8" nipples for each bucket. Simple drip hose pumped into the buckets and 1/2" barb fitting through rubber grommets in each bucket formed the returns back to the rez. My UC system I run now is similar, just 4 totes circulating through 2" pipe.
You'll need to build the system and then test how much fluid you need to maintain a good level with the pump in operation. RDWC is a step up but it can have problems-feed lines can get clogged and drains may block for roots so plan for some containment if you get a spill.
Click to expand...
Ok, thx for your input
 
Lordhooha said:
For me five gallon buckets get filled with roots way too fast. I use those 27 gal hdx totes for my rdwc plumbed up to a 55 gal barrel with a float valve to top off as necessary.
Click to expand...
Yeah, my next grow I’m going to do a massive upgrade. Thx for your input. Much appreciated. Being my 1st hydro grow, trying to keep it simple.
 
Lordhooha said:
For me five gallon buckets get filled with roots way too fast. I use those 27 gal hdx totes for my rdwc plumbed up to a 55 gal barrel with a float valve to top off as necessary.
Click to expand...
I start them in 5 gallon buckets and transfer to totes. My personal experience is faster root development in the 5.

And for me swapping out the solution in the 5 while I can is easier.
 
hotrodharley said:
I start them in 5 gallon buckets and transfer to totes. My personal experience is faster root development in the 5.

And for me swapping out the solution in the 5 while I can is easier.
Click to expand...
I think that’s what I’m gonna do, already have the totes, and have watched a lot of YouTube video’s of people doing it that way. Thx
 
cwillis11b said:
I think that’s what I’m gonna do, already have the totes, and have watched a lot of YouTube video’s of people doing it that way. Thx
Click to expand...
I started it hauling water at -30F. It got precious. The roots in my first tote grow took forever but once going look out. I had 2 totes with 4 plants in a huge shower but took one tote out. They got that big.
 
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