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Comment by R.K. Castillo on November 27, 2012 at 5:27pm

Okay here's what I did http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20mPC93HKvQ

What should I do with the grow beds?  To Bell Siphon Or Not to Bell Siphon?

In NFT does the water have to flow continually?  Or can it run when the Bell Siphon flushes the water out?

Comment by John Jay on November 20, 2012 at 11:45am

I would just put a sponge or screen half of the diameter of the top pipe place it so that it raises the water  depth

Comment by R.K. Castillo on November 19, 2012 at 1:07pm

Thanks Daniel!  That's a big help.

Comment by Daniel Budfuloski on November 18, 2012 at 1:43pm

also, to make it "work properly"...  I've never built a NFT system before, but if i'm correct, you have to have the water level up to the net pods level (about 1/3 from the bottom of the pod).  At this point, the media will simulate as a wick and soak up about another inch or so in your net pod.  this will help if you decide to start with seeds and keeping them from falling down into your NFT system.

Comment by Daniel Budfuloski on November 18, 2012 at 1:37pm

I can answer your question about the fish...  The first thing that you want to do is buy a fresh water tester from a pet store.  I use API Freshwater Master.  It will measure your ph balance, nitrites, nitrates, and ammonia.  Next, you need to go and get pure ammonia.  I went to ace's hardware store and bought mine for 3.00.  By adding ammonia, you are supplementing fish waist in which the bacteria can brake down and convert it to nitrites.  keep testing your water for nitrites when you add in your ammonia.  Once you see nitrites, soon afterwards you will start to see nitrates.  This is your bacteria growing and forming.  Once your nitrites are down to 0 and your nitrates are there, you are ready for plants and fish.  Make sure that you make your initial addition of ammonia, that you don't add in a lot (i would say for your system, about a cap full).  Once you nitrites are down and nitrates are up, add the fish.  I hope this helps.