It is necessary to change out the nutrient in hydroponic systems periodically. I usually do this about every 3-5 weeks. This is a good time to leech your plants and do a little basic cleaning. A toothbrush works wonderful for scrubbing around the pots. Then dump fresh leeching solution over plants. There is sometimes a trace of build up, in the pvc pipe mechanism, especially when using an organic fertilizer.

The task of cleaning can be accomodated by using a brush purchased at a beer/ wine brewing shop. I leave the pieces unglued, so I can take them apart and clean them. I usually do this every, to every other resevoir change. When sticking the brush through the pipe be careful not to stick it all the way through. If it gets stuck, stick a dowel or something, through the end of the handle of the brush for leverage when pulling out.

Powerful submersible magnetic drive pumps are very reliable. I keep mine running 24/7.

Take them apart and clean periodically to ensure maximum performance. Shown here is the assembly of 2 different pumps.

A thin copper wire can be used to push build up out of the spinner. A rut exists in the actual top of the spinner. Use wire to clean this also. Check Ph at regular intervals to determine Ph, and to get info about how the plant is growing. I highly recommend a digital and some calibtation solution. Manual PH testing is also highly recommended.

A digital ph and tds meter are highly recommended. If you don't have enough in the budget for a digital, then get a 5 dollar drip test kit. (Page2)