Building Your Own Hydroponic PVC System? Check Out These Top Tools, The Product Reviews and Steps Involved

With the rise of hydroponics, nowadays, everyone wants to try their hands on hydroponics. The hydroponic system provides ease of planting crops in your backyard which other methods don’t offer.

Why building DIY Hydroponic PVC System at home

Hydroponic PVC Systems can be easily made at home at an affordable price due to PVCs lost cost. On top of that, it remains unaffected by the weather conditions wherever installed. Whether it’s rain, or mist, or fog, or excessive sunlight, PVC retains its strength.

So in this blog, we will be seeing the top tools needed and the steps required for building a DIY Hydroponic PVC System. So let’s get started.

Top Tools required for DIY Hydroponic PVC System

We have covered here the top tools required for DIY Hydroponic PVC System. Why would you believe us? Because every product mentioned has been researched thoroughly, its features, pros, and cons, the overview was based on its ratings and reviews. So here we go!

3/4-Inch PVC Pipe Coupling – 10 Pack for DIY Hydroponic PVC System

Details of 3/4-Inch PVC Pipe :

• Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 2 inches
• Item Weight: 6.7 ounces
• Number of pieces: 10

No of 3/4-Inch PVC Pipe needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 4

Overview of 3/4-Inch PVC Pipe:

Manufactured in China and built in the USA, this Genova Products 30107CP 3/4-Inch PVC Pipe Coupling comes in ten pieces. With a scheduled 40 pressure fitting, it becomes the best for the underground sprinkler system. It is small and light-weighted, thus appropriate for people who have recently thought of trying their hands on a PVC hydroponic system.

3/4-Inch 90 Degree PVC Pipe Elbow – 10 Pack or DIY hydroponic PVC system

Details of PVC Pipe Elbow 

• Size: 0.75 Inch
• Item Weight: 0.65 Pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 2 x 2 x 2 inches
• The material used: PVC
• Connector Type: Elbow
• Number of Pieces: 10

No of 3/4-Inch 90 Degree PVC Pipe Elbow  needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 8

Overview of PVC Pipe Elbow:

Loved and preferred by most people, as their reviews state, this product is ideal for irrigation and residential sprinkler underground systems and hydroponics systems. Its structure can help to change the direction of the piping structure. It can help you repair a damaged PVC drain.

Pvc Glue 8 OZ, Clear for DIY hydroponic PVC system

Details of Pvc Glue:

• Compatible Material: Plastic
• Item Weight: 11.4 ounces
• Product Dimensions: 2.63 x 2.63 x 3.75 inches
• Size: 8 Ounce
• Material: Metal
• Item Package Quantity: 1

No of Pvc Glue  needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 1 can

Overview of Pvc Glue:

This glue is easy to use without any complications of odor and is non-flammable. So, you need not be irritated with the constant pungent smell that other adhesives provide. It works with almost every type of PVC except for the iSUP (inflatable stand paddleboard vinyl).

General Use Duct Tape for DIY hydroponic PVC system

Details of General Use Duct Tape:

• Item Thickness: 5.5 mils
• Item Weight: 8.8 ounces
• Measurement System Imperial
• Number of Items: 1
• Upper-Temperature Rating: 200 degrees_fahrenheit

No of General Use Duct Tape: needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 1

Overview of General Use Duct Tape:

The purpose of using ducts is Sealing, Holding, Labeling, and Temporary repairs. Its improved functionality and features include patching solutions, bundling, tabbing,  reinforcing, marking, taping/splicing insulation, capping pipe, labeling, securing conduit ends, temporary repair, and hanging polyethylene drapes. Whether you have humid or dry weather conditions, this tape survives amidst all.

Superior Pump 1/4 HP Thermoplastic Utility Pump, Black for DIY hydroponic PVC system

Details of Thermoplastic Utility Pump:

• Material: Thermoplastic
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 12 x 7 x 7 inches
• Item Weight: 6.8 Pounds
• Power Source AC
• Horsepower: 0.25
• Item Package Quantity: 1

No of Thermoplastic Utility Pump:  needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 1

Overview of Thermoplastic Utility Pump:

It’s an easy-to-install process, which makes it the most used option for pumps by people. Hydroponic Submersible Pump, the noise level is pretty low compared to other pumps with huge suction power. This is the much-suggested Hydroponic Submersible Pump for your hydroponic system.

PVC Regular Cement and 4-Ounce NSF Purple Primer Handy Pack for DIY hydroponic PVC system-

Details of  Regular Cement and Purple Primer Handy Pack:

• Compatible Material: Plastic
• Item Weight: 11.2 ounces
• Product Dimensions : 3.75 x 2 x 3 inches
• Size: 4 oz
• Recommended application temperature of 40 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit
• Number of Items: 1

No of Regular Cement and Purple Primer Handy Pack needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 1

Overview of  Regular Cement and Purple Primer Handy Pack:

It can be convenient for potable water, pressure pipe, conduit, and DWV applications while building the hydroponic system. It has excellent fluidity and works well within the temperature frame of 40 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit, with the capability to remove surface dirt, grease, and grime.

6-inch air stones for aeration and circulating nutrients in the DIY hydroponic PVC system

Details of Active Aqua ASCL Air Stone Cylinder:

• Product Dimensions: 10.12 x 2 x 4 inches
• Item Weight: 6.4 ounces

No of Air Stone Cylinder needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 6

Overview of Active Aqua ASCL Air Stone Cylinder:

This product is ideal for hydroponic systems because of its added advantages. The air stones enhance the life of nutrient-filled water, thus keeping roots healthy. Apart from the design, micropore boosts the solution by aerating nutrients in it, thus promoting exceptional growth.

Pieces of 16 Oz plastic cups for DIY hydroponic PVC system

Details of Disposable Plastic Cups:

• Material: Plastic
• Product Dimensions : 7.13 x 7.13 x 11.5 inches
• Item Weight: 1.98 Pounds:

No Disposable Plastic Cups needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 40

Overview of Disposable Plastic Cups:

Apart from their usage at parties, these glasses come in handy while building a hydroponic system DIY. The colorful range of cups and its firm grip and durability form a lasting impact—these cups from the netted pots in a Hydroponic DIY System.

2x4basics Pro Brackets Sawhorse – Black, 2 Pack for DIY Hydroponic PVC System

Details of 2×4 basic Sawhorses:

• Item Weight: 8.28 pounds
• Length:  8 feet long and 4 feet high

No of 2×4 basic Sawhorses needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 2

Overview of 2×4 basic Sawhorses:

A single pack of basic Sawhorses allows you to have two sawhorses with a sturdy frame to build a DIY Hydroponic PVC System. With this package, they give you four angle foot brackets, so you just cut the leg 2x square, and the bracket handles the angle. The angle of the feet will compensate for the compound angle of the legs being thicker at one corner and smaller at the opposite corner allowing your sawhorses to sit flat on the ground without having to cut them.

Bag of expanded clay pellets. for DIY Hydroponic PVC System

Details of expanded clay pellets:

• Product Dimensions: 33 x 18 x 10 inches
• Item Weight: 1 pounds

No of a bag of expanded clay pellets needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 1 20 liter bag

Overview of expanded clay pellets:

Expanded Clay Pebbles, made with only the highest quality clay, produce a surface that is uniform, stable and can help you get the best outcomes from your plants. The special kiln-fired Expanded Clay Pebbles are lightweight aggregate that is super-heated and formed into pebbles 8 mm round in size. The ceramic shell and inner pore structure retain moisture and release it back to your plant’s roots as needed.

A gallon plastic storage tote with its lid., 6-Pack for DIY Hydroponic PVC System

Details of gallon plastic storage tote:

• Material: Plastic
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 25.75 x 17.25 x 11.88 inches
• Item Weight: 4.8 Pounds
• Number of Pieces: 1
•  Capacity: 15 Gal / 57 L.

No of gallon plastic storage tote needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 1

Overview gallon plastic storage tote:

It provides a great storage option for a reservoir. Its optimum size, lightweight and storage bins make it ideal for a reservoir in a hydroponic PVC system. Deep recessed lids offer secure stacking capabilities helping to maximize available storage space.

Aquarium Airline Tubing, Soft Air Pump Hose for DIY Hydroponic PVC System

Details of Air Pump Hose:

• Package Dimensions : 10.8 x 7.4 x 1.3 inches; 
• Weight: 10.41 Ounces
• length: 50-feet (15.25 meters)
•  inner diameter: 3/16” (4.8mm)
• outer diameter: 1/4″ (6.35mm)

No of Air Pump Hose needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 1

Overview of Air Pump Hose:

Air Pump Hose is used as a water or air pump tube, filter tubing, and as an airline for bubblers and aquarium ornaments. The flexible airline tubing with its long-lasting features works in aquariums, terrariums, hydroponic systems, and DIY CO2 diffuser sets. You may also use it for other applications including plant cloning, winemaking, and home brewing setups.

Below mentioned are the 3 LED lights that are essential for a hydroponics system. However,as per your convenience, you can decide to choose any one among them.

300W LED Grow Light, with Daisy Chain, Full Spectrum Plant Growing Lights for DIY Hydroponic PVC System

Details of 300W LED Grow Light:

• Special Feature: Daisy Chain Feature, Veg, and Bloom Switch
• Vegetative Coverage at 24″ Height: 2×2 ft
• Dimensions: 12.8x8x2.8 inches
• Item Weight: 6.4 lbs
• LED Bulbs: (60pcs) High Intensity 5W Epiled/Bridgelux LEDs
• Input: AC100-240V, 50-60Hz
• Amperage: 1.08A at 120V, 0.59A at 220V
• Actual Power Draw: 130W±3% at 120V
• Lifespan: ≥100,000 hours

No of 300W LED Grow Light needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 1

Overview of 300W LED Grow Light:

The optimal full spectrum is made to have a great PAR per lumen output and provides plants with everything they need from natural sunlight. This means every bulb is within the correct wavelength for the best photosynthesis. It has an advanced cooling system that is easy for heat dissipation. It provides you with a complete spectrum of wavelengths to help you grow the plants in the perfect conditions at all levels.

UV IR LED Plant Lights Full Spectrum Double Chips Growing Lamps Bulbs for DIY Hydroponic PVC System

Details of LED Grow Light:

• Lighting Area: 1.5m²
• Operating power: 110W
• Voltage: AC100-265 V
• Size: 12.2 x 8.3 x 2.4in

No of LED Grow Light  needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 1

Overview of LED Grow Light:

Made of  Acrylic Panel, Aluminium Structure, and LEDs, this light has a super long service life, which can help your plants to grow with confidence. This model is especially well-fitted for flowering stages and medical plants to get a high yield. It can also be used for seed starting and can be widely used in greenhouse and indoor gardening. The spectrum of this light is significantly absorbed for maximum production of ChlorophyLL A and B.

Roleadro LED Grow Light – Full Spectrum Grow Lights for DIY Hydroponic System

Details of Roleadro LED Grow Light:

• Rated Power: 1000Watt
• Working Voltage: AC100~240V
• Lifespan: 50000 Hours
• Dimension:12.1×2.4×8.2 inch
• Max Coverage (at 24″ Height): 3ft x 3ft

No of Roleadro LED Grow Light needed for DIY hydroponic PVC system- 1

Overview of Roleadro LED Grow Light:

The aluminum heat sink with 2 quiet cooling fans ensures uneven heating. It has a 120-degree lens and 5 mil Epileds chips that directly guarantee high PAR value. The spectrum ratio maintains good plant growth, even though these LED grow lights can replace traditional 1000 watt HPS/MH while consuming only 135 total watts!. Its sturdy frame makes it suitable to be used indoors or even in outdoor settings.

Starting with DIY Hydroponics

Step 1: Assembling the materials

The first step to proceed is to ensure that you have all the materials with you at that point in time.  Apart from the essential tools needed, don’t forget to keep a set of helping tools like Chalk Line, Maker, Hack saw, Tape measure, Soldering iron, pruning shears, Hole saw, and Power drill. 

Step 2: Cutting the PVC Pipes

4 PVC pipes should be cut, each being not more than 8ft long. And 2 of them should be cut in 6 inches for using it in the u-turns for PVC elbows. The burrs can be cleared using a PVC Primer.

Step 3: Gluing the system and arrange them in the grid of your choice

The PVC Glue should be put on the end of the pipe and u-turns also. You need to hold them to avoid them from falling apart. Ensure that 1.5 inches of the pipe are covered with glue to ensure maximum strength. Put the glue about 4 to 5 times on each end. Keep them aside for a day or two.

The elbow needs to be glued to the longer pieces and the other end of the pipe should be glued to one of the u-turns. This is to ensure that the elbow is upright and the upturn stays flat on the ground.

Connect the pieces to form the desired grid of your choice. It may be straight or zigzag. You need to connect the ends of these PVC pipes to each other with the help of PVC elbow connectors.

Note: Twist the pieces just a bit so that the air bubbles can be removed. To do so, make 3 u-turns and push each of them together on the upright surface.

Step 4: Making holes in the pipes to hold the net pot

When the glue has settled, holes need to be made at the top of the pipe using a driller for the plants. Measure 3 ½ inches from the elbow of the pipe, and mark it with a dot. Since the length is 7 ft and 6 inches, there would be 9 dots with a gap of 3.5 inches. The reason behind this accuracy is that if the holes are drilled a bit away from the center, there might be a leakage there.

Use a thin piece of metal for cleaning the PVC burrs when all the holes have been cut. This is done to ensure that the water pump is not clogged with small broken pieces of PVC.

The distance between the long pipes has to be measured before cutting three sections of PVC to the length after measuring. The regions in between the long pipes should be wedged. Further, they need to be duct-taped to ensure that the tape is between the plant holes rather than covering them.

Step 5: Cleaning the system

After drilling, thoroughly clean the system with flowing water to check if it’s breaking or not. This is because, often after drilling, chances are there the pipe might break if the holes are incorrectly drilled.

The hydroponic system is lifted off the ground and is set on sawhorses. The water is caught in a reservoir at the end of the system. Water is shot into the PVC pipe by a hose with a good spray nozzle, removing the PVC burr debris from the pipe.

Step 6: DIY hydroponics netted pots at home

Take a disposable cup of 16 oz and make very tiny dots at the bottom and side of the cups. Don’t make the holes large enough or else the pellets might fall off.  This is done by burning small holes using a soldering iron. 

This will form the netted pots. These netted pots aid in water control of the system. Ensure to carry out this process in an open environment to prevent smoke and suffocation

Step 7: Installing a dam hydroponic system to control the water level in PVC pipes

Installing a dam hydroponic system will keep the water level intact and prevent leakages. For making a dam, materials like a huge glass, vase, or jug can be used. Take a thin plastic and a 4-inch piece of scrap unused PVC.

Mark a circle on the plastic and cut it off. Cut one part of the circle for the water level height that has to be mentioned inside the pipe. Then cut 2 slits to create a flap that can be merged down for fine-tuning the water level.

Fill 33% of it with water. Connect with a hydroponic pump and turn it on. Insert the disposable cup into each hole. Add some pellets and stones to each cup to prevent them from falling over. 

Step 8: Making a nutrient-rich solution and adding growth medium

This nutrient-rich solution combines primary nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, magnesium), secondary phosphorus nutrients like sulfur,  calcium, and micronutrients iron, copper, molybdenum, manganese, zinc, boron.

You can buy this nutrient-rich solution from the stores or you can even make it at your home. You will need 25 ml of calcium nitrate, 6.25 ml of monopotassium phosphate, 8.3 ml of potassium nitrate, 1.7 ml of potassium sulfate, 17.5 ml of magnesium sulfate, and 2 ml of trace elements. Keep all the contents in a food-grade container at room temperature and away from sunlight.

Growth mediums like Rockwool, clay pellets, coconut fiber/coconut chips, cocopeat, perlite or vermiculite should be used.

Step 9: Installing a water pump

You need to install the water pump at the bottom of the reservoir and fill it with nutrient-rich solution freshly prepared at home or bought from the market. Submersible tank pumps are designed to be seated in the base of your tank and can pump water upwards to the surface. 

Doing so will ensure that when the pump is turned on, the pVC pipes are flooded with the nutrient-rich solution, and when turned off, water flows back into the reservoir.

Step 10: Install a Lighting system

Lighting is very important for a plant to grow. No matter how much resources are given, a bit of lighting is necessary. So, install a 1000 watt light to serve the purpose. 

Step 11: Choosing the plants you need to grow

YOu can choose any seeds or seedlings which are available in-store or online. To get a good yield, put at least 3 seeds in each neti pot. YOu can choose seeds of plants like strawberries, chilies, tomatoes, onions, herbs, etc.

Step 12: Monitoring your Plant

Whenever you see the water level falling below the level, fill the reservoir again with water and growth medium. Also, test the nutrient level in water so that you don’t add excessive or fewer nutrients.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I change hydroponic water?

Ans: You should replace the water every 7-10 days. A small number of nutrients in the flush solution (EC 0.6 ) will save the plant.

Can you use rainwater for hydroponics?

Ans: Yes, it is safe to use water collected from rain barrels in your hydroponic system. Whereas tap water contains added chlorine or chloramines.

What are the disadvantages of hydroponics?

Ans: Constructing a hydroponics system isn’t an easy task. It requires a lot of time to assemble the parts together, with an accuracy that needs to be maintained.

How do I start a hydroponic garden for beginners?

Ans: If you are a beginner, it is recommended to use Deep Water culture as in this case you simply have to fill the reservoir with nutrient-filled water.