What is a hydroponic system? Hydroponics is a way to grow plants. Hydroponic systems have been growing in popularity because they utilize a water-based solution that’s rich in nutrients to grow plants instead of soil.
Plants that are grown hydroponically have high growth rates, greater yields, and are healthier. They also save space, conserve water, require fewer chemicals, and can grow indoors. If you’re interested in growing plants at home, a hydroponic system is a great solution!
If you’re just getting started or would like to learn more about hydroponic systems, we’re here to help! There are many combinations and variations of hydroponic systems, so we’ve listed the six basic types of hydroponic systems below.
- Wick System: A wick hydroponic system is the simplest of hydroponic systems. It is the only hydroponic system that does not require electricity. Wick hydroponic systems also do not require aerators or pumps. Plants grown in this type of hydroponic system are placed directly in an absorbent substance like perlite or vermiculite. Nylon wicks then are positioned around the plants before they are set straight down into a nutrient-rich solution. Wick systems are good for growing small garden plants and herbs. A disadvantage of using a wick system is that the nutrients are not absorbed evenly, so it can lead to the buildup of toxic mineral salts.
- Water Culture: A water culture hydroponic system is easy to use because it places the roots of the plants directly into the nutrient-rich solution. Plants are secured into position by net pots. Oxygen is sent into the water by a diffuser or air stone. Plants grown in this type of hydroponic system will grow very quickly. Water culture systems work well for any kind of plant. A disadvantage of a water culture system is that there is a Potential for the plants to develop root diseases.
- Ebb and Flow: (aka: Flood and Drain) Is probably the most popular of hydroponic systems because it is used by many home gardeners. The plants are positioned in a spacious grown bed that’s packed with mediums like Rockwool or perlite. The bed is flooded with a nutrient-rich solution via a pump. Ebb and Flow system pumps feature a timer that will shut off after a certain amount of time. After the pump shuts off, the solution will be drained and sent back into the pump. Ebb and flow systems are effective for growing most types of plants including certain root vegetables. A disadvantage of using an Ebb and Flow system is that the pump controller can malfunction which will halt operation.
- Drip: Drip Hydroponic Systems can be altered for different types of plants and are very easy to use. A drip system is pumped into a tube that sends the nutrient-rich solution straight to the base of the plant. The drip emitter controls how much solution is placed into the plant and can be adjusted to be circulating or non-circulating. A circulating system will drop consistently, and any extra nutrients will be sent back to the tank that contains the nutrient solution. Drip systems work well for any kind of plant. A disadvantage of using a drip system that they need consistent maintenance because of the fluctuating nutrient and pH levels when the solution is re-circulated.
- Nutrient Film Technology (N.F.T.): N.F.T. Hydroponic Systems are widely used by commercial and home growers because of they are easy to scale. The nutrient-rich solution is placed in a large reservoir and is pumped into sloped channels that allow the excess solution to flow back into the reservoir. Because of its simple design, the solution is sent into channels and flows down to the roots of each plant so that they each get the right amount of nutrients. Net pots are recommended for N.F.T. hydroponic systems. N.F.T. systems are best for plants with smaller roots because the channels that are used are relatively small. There are no known disadvantages that we’re aware of for N.F.T. systems.
- Aeroponic Systems: Aeroponic Hydroponic Systems are easy to understand but can be difficult to build. Plants are suspended into the air with mist nozzles positioned underneath. The nozzles spray the nutrient-rich solution onto the roots of the plants which has proven to be very effective. Aeroponic systems the most efficient of all hydroponic systems because they use less water. Aeroponic systems can grow most plants if the right dimensions are used. Disadvantages of using an aeroponic system is that they are costly to build and the nozzles can become clogged over time.
Hydroponic Water Filter Systems:
Once you’ve chosen which hydroponic system you want to use, you’ll need to find the hydroponic water filter system that’s right for you. Why? Since hydroponic plants are grown in a nutrient-rich water solution, you’ll want to make your water is free of contaminants and chemicals that can harm your hydroponic plants.
Can you use tap water for hydroponics? Most tap water is not safe to use for hydroponic plants. City water is treated to remove harmful contaminants, so it’s safe for humans to drink, but needs to be treated further for use with hydroponics. If you have well water, your water is likely high in minerals which can impair plant growth.
It’s common to collect rainwater for hydroponics, but you’ll want to make sure to stay away from roofs covered in materials containing lead and asbestos. You’ll also want to make sure that you live in a climate that gets enough rain to meet your watering needs.
The best water for hydroponics is water that’s as close as possible to its pure state.
Whether you’re just getting started with hydroponic gardening or are looking to improve your hydroponic system’s water supply, Hydro Life Hydroponic Water Filter Systems and garden hose in-line filters are an excellent choice!
Hydro Life Filter systems and filters are an easy and cost-effective way to get superior water filtration for your hydroponic garden.
We recommend testing your water first to see which of these systems is right for you:
Hydro Life Hydroponic Filter Systems:
Hydro Life 52710 Hydroponics Twin Water Filtration System
Hydro Life Hydroponics Twin Water Filtration System is a must-have for urban gardeners! This twin Hydroponics filtration system will effectively reduce bacteria, chlorine and chloramines, harmful chemicals, salts, heavy metals, sediment, rust flakes (iron), organic matter, and sulfur. This system features a sacrificial sediment pre-filter that will remove heavy sediment before it reaches the KDF/Catalytic Carbon filter. The KDF 85/Catalytic Carbon filter will trap chloramines and reduce heavy metals like lead and mercury. It’s also designed to prevent bacteria growth when the filter is not in use and extend the overall life of the hydroponic filter. It is perfect for use in hydroponic, organic vegetable, flower, and urban gardens, and it comes complete with female and male water hose connections for installation and use. Allow your hydroponic garden to reach its full potential with this effective filter system!
Specifications:
- Filter Life (Gallons): 8,000
- Filter Media: KDF 85 and Catalytic Carbon
- Flow Rate: 2.5 GPM
Hydro Life 52710 Hydroponics Twin Water Filtration System
Add to Cart
Compatible Filters:
Hydro Life 52711 Hydroponics Sediment/Pre-Filter Replacement Cartridge
The Hydro Life Hydroponics replacement sediment pre-filter can be used in both the Hydro Life 52710 and Hydro Life 52712 systems. This filter is made of spun polypropylene and is the first filter in the filter setup. It is a cost-effective way to remove potentially harmful sediment before it has a chance to reach your reverse osmosis membrane or your premium carbon filter, which prevents clogs and diminished efficiency. Save money and protect your equipment and filter with this effective pre-filter!
Hydro Life 52711 Hydroponics Sediment/Pre-Filter Replacement Cartridge
Hydro Life 52712 Hydroponics KDF 85 Replacement Cartridge
The Hydro Life Hydroponics KDF 85 replacement cartridge is your key to having more vibrant flowers and healthier crops in your hydroponic garden. This Hydroponics replacement cartridge is compatible with both the Hydro Life twin and reverse osmosis systems. It’s designed with Catalytic Carbon with KDF media to reduce up to 98% of heavy metals, chloramines, and other contaminants from potable water sources. It also prevents bacterial growth to protect your filter and extend its life. Allow your garden to reach its full potential with this effective filter!
Hydro Life 52712 Hydroponics KDF 85 Replacement Cartridge
Hydro Life 52715 Hydroponics Twin Reverse Osmosis System
This twin reverse osmosis Hydroponics filtration system comes is a must-have for your urban garden. It works to remove 99% of all contaminants using reverse osmosis technology. Water travels through a pre-filter that removes heavy sediment and extends the life of your other filter, membrane, and system. It then enters a KDF and Catalytic Carbon filter, which removes sediment, rust, sulfur, heavy metals, salts, chloramines, and chlorine. Finally, it reaches a reverse osmosis membrane, which rejects everything except for water molecules. This results in a clean base for your nutrient-rich hydroponic solution. It’s perfect for use in organic vegetable, flower, and hydroponic gardens, and it comes complete with female and male water hose connections for easy installation and use. Improve the health of your plants and nutrient-rich solution with this effective hydroponic filter system.
Specifications:
- Filter Life (Gallons): 8,000
- Filter Media: KDF 85 and Catalytic Carbon
Hydro Life 52715 Hydroponics Twin Reverse Osmosis System
Compatible Filters:
Hydro Life 52711 Hydroponics Sediment/Pre-Filter Replacement Cartridge
The Hydro Life Hydroponics replacement sediment pre-filter can be used in The Hydro Life 52710 and Hydro Life 52712 system. This filter is made of spun polypropylene and is the first filter in the filter setup. It is a cost-effective way to remove potentially harmful sediment before it has a chance to reach your reverse osmosis membrane or your premium carbon filter, which prevents clogs and diminished efficiency. Save money and protect your equipment and filter with this effective pre-filter!
Hydro Life 52711 Hydroponics Sediment/Pre-Filter Replacement Cartridge
Hydro Life 52712 Hydroponics KDF 85 Replacement Cartridge
The Hydro Life Hydroponics KDF 85 replacement cartridge is your key to having more vibrant flowers and healthier crops in your hydroponic garden. This Hydroponics replacement cartridge is compatible with both the Hydro Life twin or reverse osmosis systems. It’s designed with Catalytic Carbon with KDF media to reduce up to 98% of heavy metals, chloramines, and other contaminants from potable water sources. It also prevents bacterial growth to protect your filter and extend its life. Allow your garden to reach its full potential with this effective filter!
Hydro Life 52712 Hydroponics KDF 85 Replacement Cartridge
Hydro Life 52716 Hydroponics RO Membrane Replacement Cartridge
This premium water filter uses Hydroponic filtration to promote healthy plant growth. It’s a must-have for organic gardeners because it will reduce chloramine and chlorine compounds to improve the health of your plants. The reverse osmosis replacement filter is compatible with the Hydrolife Twin Reverse Osmosis System.
Hydro Life 52716 Hydroponics RO Membrane Replacement Cartridge
Hydroponic Garden Hose Filters:
Hydro Life 52700 C-85 In-line Water Filter
This Hydro Life In-line Water Filter attaches easily to your garden hose. Its catalytic carbon and KDF filtration will provide you with cleaner, safer water for your hydroponic garden. This in-line garden hose filter will reduce up to 98% of chloramines and heavy metals and comes with a flexible hose protector to reduce strain on your spigot and supply faucet and is a must-have to help your urban garden reach its full potential!
Specifications:
• Filter Life (Gallons): 8,000
• Filter Media: KDF 85 and Catalytic Carbon
• Flow Rate: 2.5 GPM
Hydro Life 52700 C-85 In-line Water Filter
Hydro Life 52701 C-85 Garden Hose In-line Filter
Enjoy more vibrant flowers and healthier crops with the Hydro Life Garden Hose In-line Water Filter! This garden hose filter offers catalytic carbon and KDF filtration, which provides you with cleaner, safer water for your hydroponic garden. It reduces up to 98% of chloramines and heavy metals, and it prevents bacterial growth to extend the life of your filter. Allow your garden to reach its full potential with this effective hose filter!
Specifications:
• Filter Life (Gallons): 8,000
• Filter Media: KDF 85 and catalytic carbon
• Flow Rate: 2.5 GPM
Hydro Life 52701 C-85 Garden Hose In-line Water Filter
Hydro Life 52702 Hydroponics C-85 XL In-line Water Filter
The Hydro Life Hydroponics C-85 XL In-line Water Filter is made of catalytic carbon, and KDF filtration will reduce up to 98% of chloramines and heavy metals in your hose water. It’s designed to prevent bacteria growth which extends the life of this filter and comes with a flexible hose protector to reduce strain on your spigot and supply faucet. If you’re looking for an easy-to-use hydroponic water filter for your urban garden, this is it!
Specifications:
• Filter Life (Gallons): 30,000
• Filter Media: KDF 85 and Catalytic Carbon
• Flow Rate: 10 GPM
Hydro Life 52702 Hydroponics C-85 XL In-line Water Filter
Can’t seem to find a hydroponic store to get a high-quality hydroponic water filter system for your garden? You’re in luck! We carry a wide selection of hydroponic supplies like hydroponic filters and systems to help create the hydroponic garden of your dreams.
Have a question about hydroponic systems? Let us know in the comments below!
Leave a Reply