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Revision date: 12.23.15
Final System Check and Getting Started
After the system is completely assembled, follow the guidelines below to complete a final check.
ATTENTION:
This manual describes how to set up your aquaponic system and check for proper operation. Additional information is presented regarding
the basic maintenance of the system. This manual does not however describe how to grow various types of fish and plants. Since the specifics of such an
undertaking would fill many books, it is best to determine beforehand exactly how you want to use this system. Water quality, location, growing environment,
available resources, personal knowledge and experience among other things all must be considered before populating your system with fish and plants.
Consult with your sales representative for additional resources and information to ensure a successful start.
FINAL SYSTEM CHECK
Complete these steps:
1. Fill the system with water and test for leaks.
Water quality is extremely important. For well water, consult all documentation that you have that pertains to what you plan to grow, and test the water
according to those recommendations. If you are using a chlorinated water supply, determine what is used to chlorinate the system. If chlorine gas is used,
allow the chlorinated water to “off-gas” for 48 hours after filling the system to remove all chlorine. If the water source uses chlorimine to chlorinate the water
and not chlorine gas, you may need to consider an alternative water source. Chlorimine will not “off-gas” and can kill fish.
2. Turn on the pumps (air and water) and check operation. Consult the documentation included with the water pump to ensure it is primed properly during
startup to allow it to pump water. Do not allow it to run dry. Check that air bubbles are present in the tanks that include air stones. Check each stone to
ensure each is operating properly.
3. Check and adjust water temperature in the system.
Accurate water temperature can be the difference between life and death for your fish. Consult documentation that describes the environment your fish
need. The float bed includes insulation and heat tubes installed under the bed liner. This tubing should be connected to a water heater (additional purchase
required) to help control the temperature of the water in your aquaponic system. In some climates, it may be necessary to keep the water cooler than the
ambient air. Consult with your aquaponic representative for additional information regarding the heating and cooling of your system's water.
4. Check all tank levels and adjust overhead valves as needed to restrict flow and to prevent flow through the overflow pipes.
5. Prepare and install the filter in the biofiltration tank. Complete Procedure 13: Prepare Biofiltration Tank.
6. Read and complete Procedure 14: Biofilter Startup and the Primary Filter.
7. Prepare the plant rafts. Review and complete Procedure 15: Prepare Plant Rafts.
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