Day two

Day two

Did a little research on bell siphons (that’s a lie sorry, did a lot of research) as I wanted to use the flood and drain method. Took advice from two sources and it worked the first time. I am still amazed every time it starts and stops.

The bell auto siphon consists of 1. A vertical standpipe inside the growbed extending through the base of the growbed, 2. A larger pipe (siphon pipe) placed over the standpipe. The siphon pipe is freestanding and taller than the standpipe, and is fitted with an end cap. Additionally, the base has pieces cut out to allow free movement of water. 3. Two or three slots cut into the pipe to assist in breaking the siphon when the water level has dropped low enough.

Water flows up between the walls of both pipes then down the inside of the stand pipe, creating the siphon. When the water level drops to the intake end of the air tube, the siphon is broken.

Drill a hole in the bottom of your grow bed to accept the bulkhead fitting.
Funny story. Went to Lowe$ to buy a bulkhead fitting and the two of the gurus in plumbing had no idea what that was. A younger guy (number 3 ) with  ear gages you could drive a truck though overheard the conversation and a light went off. He took me to the hot water heaters and got me the fitting used on the drain pan. Smart kid.

Attach bulkhead fitting being sure to use rubber washers. You want this to be water tight.

8 1/2 x 3/4 PVC added to the bulk head fitting. This will determine

the height of the water level. Should be 1” below the surface of the media

This is a length of 2” PVC with cap. Note the cut outs on the bottom. This allows air to be drawn in and end the siphoning processes.

The 2” pipe the cap is than placed over the standpipe.

This a length of 4” black pipe that will serve as a media guard, and allow the Bell siphon to do its job.

Here it is all put together. Very simple and reliable.

Did a test run and was amazed that it worked the first time. None of the tweaking I had anticipated.