PVC Irrigation Tips

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

I wish I would of known this on my first aquaponics system build:

Dry fit 1/4″ deep before gluing
Remove all burrs with sandpaper to prevent clogs
inspect the insides of the pipe before you glue them together
Avoid getting dirt into the pipes as you build them. Block up the far end while you work on other peices
stuff a rag into the end of the pipe if you have to stop for the night
Plan for ways to clean out your design, it will clog eventually
Holes drilled will fit clay hydroton balls nicely – use slits instead
Do not use a wrench to tighten plastic nuts on PVC, hand tighten only
Wait 24 hours before using freshly glued pipes

Use fish safe resins and glues
Snapping PVC with your bear hands is cool, until it rips your knuckles apart on a sharp edge.
Primer (acetone) melts plastic… be careful
PVC gets soft around 140 degrees, CPVC gets soft around 180 degrees
Avoid breathing PVC dust or fumes if you heat bend something

Aquaponics Construction Tips on Aquaponics System