Solids Prefilter - Part II

Updates 2012 : After practicing Aquaponics for some times, I do not use a pre-filter anymore.

This is another variation of solids prefilter that I post earlier. The different is I stick a swirl adapter to swirl the water causing solids and liquid separation.




Diagram above shows swirl adapter, the rest is self explainatory.





Photo of swirl adapter, if your filter casing is big, you could use two elbow at the end of the adapter to cause the swirl.



If a "U Turn" won't do it,, just turn the water around to get it loose.

Sunken Bell

I do alter the bell for trial and error, sometimes I will come across this situation where it is below the outer pipe causing problem to lift it up.


Bell shown in a position where you will have difficulties lifting it up


A simple way to lift it out is by using "sucker" that come with aquarium pumps or even cup holders. Just stick it on to the dome.


And lift it up.


I experiment a lot with bell length, one way of extending it is to use spacer, made up of the same pipe. Insert spacer first then the bell pipe. If bell pipe not holding in place due to it short length.


I will use RTV sealant, reason for using this sealant, is that its easily removed if I need to do more adjustment. If I use the PVC pipe glue,, then its a permanent fixture difficult to redo.

Pump Problem

My pump just not good enough for the job. I'm using a small pump about 12 ~ 14 watt rated, reason being my grow beds is small.

The problem with this type of pump is it easily get clogged up.. then the siphon will be compromise.

I have to use a higher capacity pump, 30 watt to make it trouble free. The only issue I had with this higher capacity pump is, water cycle its to quick... not a problem to the siphon, maybe I need a bigger grow beds. now.. :)


The higher pump capacity rating below.

I have to get a better pump for my new setup.

Another possible reason to the pump problem could be, after the last incident of dead fish, I run the pump 24/7 this I do to cycle the new grow beds faster.

Running the pump in this condition do not give it time to self clean. Previously I switch off the pump at night, this give time for the fishes to clean debris or foods solids sticking near the pump inlet.

I'm going to put the Timer back on... and cut the pump at night. This maybe a cheaper option.. :)