How do I make an ebb & flow hydroponic system?

• Resturant bus tub, 15 1/2" x 20 1/2" x 4 1/2", flood tray.
  
• Resturant bus tub, 15 1/2" x 20 1/2" x 7", reservoir.
  
• Reservoir lid, 15 3/4" x 22".
  
• Overflow fitting.
  
• Fill/drain fitting.
  
• Water pump, 70 gph.
  
• Tubing, 1/2" ID.
  
• Aquarium air pump.
  
• Air stones.
  
• Green air line.

Notice, in the pictures above, the one inch holes, in the flood tray for the overflow, and fill/drain fittings, also, the two inch holes in the lid, for the fittings to pass through.



A view of the plumbed flood tray with lid. See how it fits over the fittings.



This is a view of the reservoir with lid, and plumbed flood tray.



Here, it's all assembled. The water and air pumps are not shown. The power cord, and air lines fit between, the reservoir and lid. A small notch may need to be added, to avoid pinching the air lines, and to help the flood tray sit level.



Assembled with six 5 1/2" square pots. Notice the easy access to both fittings. The fill/drain fitting has a connector for a 1/2" hose, under the screen. Remove the screen, connect the hose, turn the pump on, and pump out the nutrient solution. Makes reservoir change outs very easy.



Another view of the system.



Note: Choosing a container...

Not all containers are made equal. Some are very sturdy, while others are not. Using a weak container will only lead to failure and a flood. Choose heavy duty containers. Also, some containers will need a center support to keep them level under the weight of the nutrient solution.

Note: About sizes...

The reservoir should be large enough, to hold two, to three times the volume of the flood tray or table. The pump should be sized to flood the tray in 5 min. or less.