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Micro-Aquaponics unit

I just about have the micro-unit complete. It still needs to be tested, add the light support and light, pumps etc. I have already found several things to change aesthitically and functionally. There will be half-panels on the sides and an opaque or textured glass divider to hide the sump. Fish tank will be removable unit. I will add a base molding to widen the appearance of the base so it will look balanced proportionally. The fish tank will have a lid and light. Possible addition of small apron or flip up tray to sides. Some units will have raised panels, might also do a version with wrought iron legs and base. This is sort of a "Mission" or "Craftsman" style. I will do some designs in a tradtional, modern, old world, etc. I am looking for your input and thoughts as well.

Specs: Cherry hardwood and veneers, Oil stain and polyurethane finish, 27"wide x 26" deep, 39" high. 38 gallons in the tank, 25 gallons in the bed. bell siphon, flood and drain, continuous running pump, aeration is aquarium pump in FT. Hydroton in bed and FT for appearance. Not sure what overall weight will be. Let me know what you think! Thanks

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Comment by Jeff Cummings on October 31, 2011 at 3:23pm: Indeed...it is beautiful! Congrats!

Comment by Vlad Jovanovic on October 29, 2011 at 2:48pm: This would sure look mighty fine in any home Rick, nice job. If you go the loop siphon route, (you probably already know this) some people have, after time, had their loop siphons collapse/kink due to the tubing they chose to use. Wall thickness seems to be the culprit. The thicker the better. Or, of course you could ad a fancy wrought iron loop holder :)

Comment by Rick Stillwagon on October 27, 2011 at 10:38pm: I have both the interest and the time! Spreading the word is the difficult part. Also working out an inexpensive and reliable draining system. I am not crazy about the bell siphon, but I am still trying it. I am also looking at the loop siphon. Got any ideas there? I am trying to keep the material costs down, but it has been a challenge. It will be easier when we can buy wholesale and in bulk. I just about have the light support and hood finished should have pics by this weekend.

Comment by Carey Ma on October 27, 2011 at 10:16pm: Looks just like I conceived. Great job buddy! I have lots more ideas if you have interest and/ or have time. Lets spread the word and make some coin along the way. Whatcha say?

Comment by Rick Stillwagon on October 25, 2011 at 4:00pm: Filled it with water today. Need to fine tune the bell siphon a bit, cycles about 3 times an hour.

Comment by Rick Stillwagon on October 25, 2011 at 4:27am: Hi Steve,

I built this one using what I had laying around the shop. I am trying to keep the overall cost as low as possible, but offering a more durable counter material as an option certainly would give it another dimension. I will put that into my list of possible changes/add ons. Thanks!

Comment by Steve Perreault on October 25, 2011 at 2:50am: Rick - What a beautiful AP system! I think you're onto something here. You could go nuts artistically with your ideas using different woods and materials like wrought iron. Have you considered using a countertop material like corian or marble for the wet areas? Are you shooting for a particular price point?