Hydroponic Food Factory

Step 20 Update 1 - Flush

It has been a while, so I thought I should make an update on maintaining the system.

I wanted to address the questions about nutrients properly, so I thought it would be a good time to flush my reservoir, and make up some fresh nutrients.

Flushing

About once a month, it is a good idea to start fresh with the water, as the plants would have taken most of what they want by now, and the nutrient level will be a bit low.

Start by disconnecting the bigger water tank (I just put a normal hose fitting onto it in the closed position to stop the flow).

Turn off your pump, and disconnect the pump hose.

Attach a spare hose piece and send it out to your grass (or dirt plants, there are still good nutrients they can use in here!).
Turn your pump on, and let it empty your reservoir.
Don't let the tank run dry, it can damage it, you might need to tip out the last litre or so of water.

Give your reservoir a clean if it needs it (some of the orange dust still on the clay balls probably washed away by now).

Hook your hose back up, and make up your nutrients (next step)