Let’s talk about aquaponics filtering systems. We’ve discussed in our previous posts that aquaponics farming involves fish and plants and the fish waste materials are used by plants as nutrients. Vice versa, plants help the fish by filtering water with their plant roots thereby returning good water to the fish tank or pond.
Even though there is a symbiotic relationship between the fish and plants that filter the system, not all the waste is filtered. This is why aquaponics filtering systems are required to maintain good water quality for an optimal aquaponics system.
What Is An Aquaponics Filtering Systems
Aquaponics filtering systems help filter excess waste, especially solid waste out of your aquaponics system. The system will ensure a clean and healthy environment for both fish and plants. Let’s take a look at 3 major types of aquaponics filtering systems.
Types Of Aquaponics Filtrating System
Although we have various types of filtering systems, we will talk about the 3 major types. They are:
1. Swirl Filters
This type of filter is the most commonly used for grow beds. They can be purchased online or made at home (DIY). This type of filter system makes use of a large barrel-shaped container. Inside the barrel, there is a basket that filters solid waste outside. The swirl filter works by collecting water from the fish tank.
As the barrel fills up, the swirl effect is generated slowing down the rising water level. This helps the solid particles to move and settles at the base of the container. The filtered nutrient water now moves out from the top of the container through the pipe and feeds the plant beds with filtered water.
Note that the barrel must be cleaned from time to time because of the settled particles. Use clean water only and never use soap to wash the barrel so you don’t kill the beneficial bacteria. The goal is just to remove only the settled particles at the bottom of the barrel.
2. Raft Water Filter
The raft water filter is another excellent way of filtering your aquaponics systems. It has two or three filter layers or chambers where solid particles pass through. The chambers feature large pieces of foams serving as the filters. These large foams are placed at the top of the fish tank; therefore, water will pass these chambers.
As the water moves, the first filter layer collects the solid particles before it enters the next filter layer. When the water moves, the solid particles move down the base of the tank. After the water has passed through all the chambers, the filtered nutrient water can now be pumped into the plant beds for use.
The raft water filter is mostly used in large tanks therefore, it usually takes up space.
3. Radial Flow Filter
The radial flow filter system makes use of a 50 gallons barrel. There is a pipe connection that comes from the fish tank into the middle of the barrel. The pipe is also seen coming out at the top of the barrel facing 90 degrees. Therefore, water with solid particles flows down into the barrel through the pipe.
Solid particles are settled at the bottom of the barrel. Clean nutrient-rich water is filtered up through the 90 degrees upper pipe and passed to the grow beds for plant use.
Why You Need Aquaponics Filtering Systems
Excess waste such as solid waste can become quite a challenge in your aquaponics when they are produced in the fish tank. These solids are pushed and get into the pumps and into your grow beds causing build-up. It can become an issue getting rid of these particles from the water as they can cause your water quality to depreciate.
Fishes produce ammonia waste but the ammonia is needed in nitrates by the plants. Therefore, it’s the availability of bacteria occurring naturally in your aquaponics system that will convert ammonia into nitrates needed by plants.
POND BOSS Filter Kit with Pump
These particles can clog your grow beds reducing the surface areas for these beneficial bacteria to live, thereby decreasing their activities.
This is why installing aquaponics filtering systems for your aquaponics is essential so your system can enjoy clean nutrient-filled water.
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Additional Info On Aquaponics Filtration Systems
You should know there are things you can do to reduce solid particles in your system. This way, you can reduce or put an end to the number of solid particles clogging your system. Simply follow these tips:
- Avoid overfeeding your fish to reduce uneaten food and clogged-up pipes.
- Figure out the correct proportion of fish size required for your aquaponics system. This way, you won’t have too many fish that can cause too much or excess waste than your plant can absorb.
Eunice is an enthusiastic gardener with a passion for growing beautiful flowers. She loves nothing more than spending time in her garden, tending to her plants and enjoying the outdoors. Eunice has been gardening for over 15 years and has developed a unique style of landscaping that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. She is especially fond of growing roses and enjoys experimenting with different varieties and colors. Eunice takes great pride in her garden and often shares the fruits of her labor with friends and family. In her spare time, she enjoys reading gardening magazines and attending local horticulture events. Eunice is passionate about her hobby and is always eager to share her knowledge and experience with others.
