Print PDF
Favorite
Email
Step 3Install the Drains
Three out of the five boxes will have drains installed in the sides, at the same level. Later, we will elevate 3 of the 4 boxes, using the 4th one as a stand. This difference in height allows the fluid to run out of the drains in the top boxes and back into the reservoir to be recirculated. The 5th box is the reservoir.
Use your drill and 3/4" bit to drill your drain fitting holes. Place a drain fitting through each box from the inside. Make sure that the drain fitting is far enough above the bottom of the boxes so that the curve of the stryrofoam doesn't affect the seal around the drain (there's a rubber grommet there). The liquid level will be have to be about 1.5" deep before it starts flowing through the drain. This is your safety net in case the pump fails; there will always be a layer of liquid at the bottom of each styrofoam bin. The roots of the plants will wick up moisture from this layer.
Jam some of the screen door material into the drain openings on the inside of the boxes to prevent future clogging.
Use your drill and 3/4" bit to drill your drain fitting holes. Place a drain fitting through each box from the inside. Make sure that the drain fitting is far enough above the bottom of the boxes so that the curve of the stryrofoam doesn't affect the seal around the drain (there's a rubber grommet there). The liquid level will be have to be about 1.5" deep before it starts flowing through the drain. This is your safety net in case the pump fails; there will always be a layer of liquid at the bottom of each styrofoam bin. The roots of the plants will wick up moisture from this layer.
Jam some of the screen door material into the drain openings on the inside of the boxes to prevent future clogging.
| « Previous Step | Download PDFView All Steps | Next Step » |
 |
Add Comment
|
