FarmTek Aquaponics System I Series User manual

1
Revision date: 12.23.15
©2015 FarmTek®
All Rights Reserved. Reproduction
is prohibited without permission.
112663
Aquaponics System I*
A balance between hydroponic vegetable production and
sh rearing, GS Series I Aquaponics Systems allow you
to produce high-quality produce and sh through the
process of combining a hydroponic-growing system with a
sh-producing aquaculture tank.
*Actual system may differ from what is shown.
112663 AQUAPONICS SYSTEM I

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REQUIRED TOOLS
The following list identifies the main tools needed to
assemble the aquaponic system. Additional tools
may be needed.
• Tape measure and marker
• Variable speed drill (cordless with extra
batteries works best)
• Small hammer and gloves
• Level (4'– recommended) and line level
• Utility knife or scissors
• Tool to cut pvc tubing
• Assorted hand tools common to construction,
plumbing, and electrical work
• Drill bit set with assorted bits
• Large adjustable pliers (3"-4" jaw)
READ THIS DOCUMENT BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Thank you for purchasing the 112663 aquaponic system. When properly assembled and maintained, this system will provide years of reliable service. These
instructions include helpful hints and important information needed to safely assemble and properly maintain the system. Please read and understand these
instructions before you begin. If you have any questions during the assembly, contact customer service.
ASSEMBLY PROCEDURE
Following the instructions as presented will help
ensure the proper assembly of your aquaponic
system. The steps outlining the assembly process
are as follows:
1. Verify that all parts are included in the
shipment. Notify customer service for
questions or concerns. See below.
2. Read and understand these instructions and
the information included with the shipment
before you begin.
3. Gather the tools and assistants.
4. Assemble the system.
5. Read the maintenance and additional
information provided near the back of this
guide.
Important Information
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
• Wear eye protection.
• Wear gloves when handling metal pipes.
• Use a portable GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter) when working with power tools and
cords.
UNPACK AND IDENTIFY PARTS
The following steps will ensure that you have all
the necessary parts before you begin assembly.
1. Unpack the contents of the shipment and
place where you can easily inventory the
parts. Refer to the Bill of Materials/Spec
Sheets.
2. Verify that all parts listed on the Bill of
Materials/Spec Sheets are present. If anything
is missing or you have questions, consult
the Pictorial Parts Guide and all diagrams for
clarification, or contact Customer Service.
NOTE: At this time, you do not need to open
the plastic bags containing smaller parts
such as fasteners or washers (if equipped).
WARNING: Enlist the services of an
experienced electrician when connecting
power to the pump and other electrical
devices.
All wiring to be completed according to
established codes and practices.
DROWNING HAZARD: Never allow
children or others within the boundary of
the tanks, float bed, and pump station at
any time.
Always have an assistant present during
tank cleaning and system maintenance to
prevent accidents.
This manual describes how to set up your
aquaponic system and check for proper
operation. Additional information is presented
regarding the basic maintenance of the
system. This manual does not however
describe how to grow various types of fish
and plants. Since the specifics of such an
undertaking would fill many books—and they
have—it is best to determine beforehand
exactly how you want to use this system.
Water quality, location, growing environment,
available resources, personal knowledge
and experience among other things all
must be considered before populating your
system with fish. Consult with your sales
representative for additional resources and
information to ensure a successful start.
ABOUT THIS MANUAL

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Revision date: 12.23.15
Important Information
PICTORIAL GUIDE
The following graphics and photos will help identify the different parts of the aquaponic system. (Some parts
may not be shown.) Keep all fittings in the shipping bags until they are needed.
WF1380 & WF1384
112365
FAPA12
WF1576 (2") 111045
FA4472B 102921B FALB34B 111906 112817
109260
112285
112710 (1")
112367 (1-1/2")
UniSeals
WF1570 (1") MH1123 (1-1/2")
WF2995 (1")
112965 (1-1/2")
WF8585 (2")
100442
WF1982 WF3511 WF2198 (1-1/2)
WF2199
WF1574 (1-1/2")
111153
2" Check Valve
112366
111148 Pump
109259 Pump
WR1095 Tape WF6990
PVC Cement
WF6671
WF6684

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Getting Started
ASSEMBLY PROCEDURES
Below are the main steps to assemble your aquaponic system. Procedures
can occur simultaneously when assistants are available, or each procedure
can be completed before moving onto the next. In most instances, the site and
available space drive which procedures can be completed first before moving
onto the next. Review this entire guide before beginning to ensure that you
understand how to position and connect the different components.
1. Review this guide and all site layout diagrams and prepare the site.
2. Determine the positions of the tanks, float bed, and related plumbing. Allow
space all around the system components for maintenance and harvest
activities. View the layout diagram for a typical layout.
ATTENTION: If you determine that the typical layout is not right for your
aquaponic needs, be aware that changes in this layout may require the
purchase of additional pvc tubing. Tubing can be purchased locally, or
contact your sales representative for additional details.
3. Construct the float bed as shown in the diagrams. Float bed requires a
flat, level surface free of debris and obstructions. Install and assemble
the frame according to instructions. Install the float bed liner.
4. Position the tanks and assemble and install the system plumbing.
NOTE: Tanks when filled are heavy. Position tanks on a solid, level
surface. If a concrete floor is not present, use concrete blocks or similar
pavers to create a solid, level surface for each of the holding tanks.
5. Install the main water pump and connect pump to the tank plumbing.
Consult the services of a certified and competent electrician when
connecting the pump to power. Customer is responsible for supplying a
solid, stable mounting surface for the water pump.
6. Install the air pump, connect air stones, and place stones in tanks and
float bed. Install air pump above the water level in the holding tanks to
prevent siphoning in the event that the air pump shuts down. Customer is
responsible for supplying a solid, stable mounting surface for the air pump.
7. Fill system with water and check for leaks.
8. Prepare the biofiltration tank.
9. Read and follow the care and maintenance information.
BASIC CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Daily
1. Check all fittings, tubes, and pipes for leaks.
2. Check all pumps to ensure they are working properly.
3. Check water level in each tank. Verify that no water is flowing through the
overflow pipes. Adjust flow as needed and monitor the results.
4. Inspect all electrical connections and wires to the pumps for damage or
corrosion.
5. Clean solids from the primary filter over the biofiltration tank.
6. Check all water parameters.
7. Keep the area around the float bed and tanks clean and picked up. Do not
allow miscellaneous tools or maintenance and harvest equipment to stack
up against the tanks or float bed.
Weekly
1. Clean all the air stones and check for a strong, even airflow through each
stone. Replace defective or damaged stones immediately.
2. Flush the in-tank standpipes. See procedure near the back of this guide.
3. Clean the secondary filter that sits atop the netting inside the biofiltration
tank. Remove, hose off, and set back into the tank.
Monthly
1. Test water hardness.
2. Inspect all pump mounting bolts and mounts. Tighten and repair as
needed.

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1
Aquaponic System Site Plan—Sample
The diagram below shows the basic layout of the 112663 aquaponic system. Use this diagram when planning where to position your system.
Review all diagrams and photos in this guide before you begin.
ATTENTION: Diagram below shows the recommended system layout. Increasing the
distance between tanks or between the tanks and float bed may require the purchase of
additional pvc tubing and/or fittings.
BASIC REQUIREMENTS:
1. Assemble float bed on a flat, level surface free of debris and objects that could damage the liner. Surface must be capable of supporting the weight of
the float bed when filled with water.
2. Position all tanks on a solid, level surface. Surface must support the weight of all tanks when filled with water. (For reference only: A gallon of fresh water
weighs approximately 8.3 pounds.)
112371X
55A
112371X
55A
112732X
15A
112732X
15B
12"-18"
12"-18" 12"-
18"
24"
4' x 8'
Lettuce
Raft
4' x 8'
Lettuce
Raft
FLOAT BED
56-1/2" Frame
(outside-to-outside)
100-1/2" Frame
(outside-to-outside)

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2
Frame Dimension Diagrams
97"
Inside-to-Inside
53"
Inside-to-Inside
100-1/2"
Outside-to-Outside
Sidewall
End Wall
Evenly
Spaced
Evenly
Spaced
56-1/2"
Outside-to-Outside
16
”
Sample End Wall
104779 Tube
Install vertical tube
tight against the
3-way corner insert.
S15P052 Tube (52")
Sidewall
112375 Tube (15-3/4")
Vertical Supports
110611
3-Way Insert
All Corners
S15P016 Tube (16")
All Corners
End Wall
104779 Tube (96")

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Revision date: 12.23.15
2Use the photos below and the diagrams on the previous
page to assemble the frame.
Required parts:
• 110611 3-Way Corner Insert (8)
• S15P016 Square Tube @ 16" (4)
• 104779 Square Tube @ 96" (4)
• S15P052 Square Tube @ 52" (4)
Assemble the Float Bed Frame
ATTENTION: Do not install any FA4472B Tek screw
along the top edge of the float bed frame. This surface
is reserved for the installation of the float bed liner.
• 112375 Square Tube @ 15-3/4" w/45° Cuts (22)
• FA4472B Tek Screws
• 100442 Magnetic Nut Setter
1. Install all 16" (S15P016) tubes flush with
the open end of each 110611 3-way
corner connector.
3. Install the first and last vertical support
for each end or side wall tight against
the 3-way corner connectors.
2. Install all FA4472B Tek screws into
the sides of the fittings. Do not install
along the top frame rail.
4. Install all vertical supports for side and
end frame flush with the horizontal
tubes.
NOTE: Do not install any Tek screws in
a location that will touch the liner once it
is installed.
5. Use the diagrams on the previous pages
to evenly space the vertical supports
along the sides.

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Assemble the Float Bed Frame–continued
2Square the Assembled Float Bed Frame*
After assembly, check all connections to verify that Tek screws are properly installed. Next, measure corner-to-corner diagonally as shown. When dimensions
are the same, frame is square. Finally, level the frame. Prepare the site inside frame if not on a solid surface such as wood or concrete.
*Actual frame may differ from
what is shown.

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Revision date: 12.23.15
3
Insulate Float Bed Frame
1. Measure and cut the insulation to the
required size.
4. Next, insulate the floor of the float
bed frame by placing the rigid board
insulation into position.
2. Working from inside the frame, install
the insulation panels.
5. Begin at one end and work toward the
other. Level the surface if needed to
create an even base for the liner. Cut
panels to the needed dimensions.
3. Continue this pattern until the ends and
all sides of the frame are insulated.
6. Before installing the liner material,
inspect the bed surface and remove any
debris that could damage the liner.
Insulate the Float Bed Frame
Once the frame is level, use the rigid board insulation to insulate the sides of the frame and the
surface that supports the bed liner. The frame shown in the example below may differ from the actual
frame. Steps to insulate are similar. Use the photos as guides to insulate your float bed frame.

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After installing the rigid board insulation, add the Tek foil. Use the supplied duct tape to hold the foil in place during installation. Overlap the seams as needed
to ensure proper coverage. Neatly fold foil at the corners to allow for an easier installation of the bed liner.
4
Install Tek Foil Liner
Install Tek Foil Inside Frame

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5Install Heat Tubing for the Float Bed
Install Float Bed Heat Tubing
In order to maintain a constant water temperature, in many climates it is necessary to heat water. Your float bed includes tubing; however, additional purchase
is required for the remainder of components needed. Contact your sales representative for additional details. Use photos that follow to install tubing.
1. Tape both ends of tubes to prevent
dirt and debris from entering during
installation.
3. Determine a pattern and install tubing
in evenly spaced rows throughout
float bed. Install outside runs close to
frame edge. Allow approximately 10"
between the individual runs of tubing.
2. Determine where you want tubes to
enter and exit float bed and create holes
in rigid board and foil.
ATTENTION: Photos show using
special clips to hold tubing. These are
not supplied. Use the supplied duct tape
and tape tubing to the foil. Once liner is
installed and filled with water, tubing will
not move. Do not use metal wire or
staples to secure tube.
NOTE: Allow a few feet of tube to extend
beyond frame to connect to heating unit.
(Additional purchase required for heating
unit and parts.)
4. After installing tube loops, inspect area
and remove any dirt and debris that
could damage liner material.
5. Continue with the installation of the float
bed liner.
ATTENTION: Regardless of float bed size, follow these general guidelines:
• Maximum length of any tube loop should not exceed 300';
• There should be at least two (2) loops per float bed;
• Loops must be of equal length.
If needed, consult the services of a qualified contractor familiar with
the installation of similar heating systems.

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Install Float Bed Liner
6Once the liner bed is prepared, continue with the installation of the liner. Assistants are required.
1. With assistance, carefully spread the liner
over the assembled frame. Ensure that equal
lengths overhang each end and side.
4. Take two (2) FA4472B Tek screws and two (2)
102921B neo-bonded washers and carefully
secure the liner to the top of the frame.
2. Beginning at one corner, carefully work the
liner into the corner and along the inside of the
base rails.
NOTE: These fasteners will be removed after
the entire liner is in position and the aluminum
retaining strap is prepared for installation.
3. Fold the liner evenly into the corner and up
and over the top of the frame rails. Try to
remove as many wrinkles as possible.
5. Move to another corner and press that liner
into place.
Required Parts:
• 110097S1 Liner (12' x 9')
• FA4472B Tek Screws, 102921B Washers, and 100442 Nut Setter
ATTENTION: During the installation of the liner, do not drop
any tools or sharp objects into the liner bed. Doing so can
puncture the liner! Exercise caution!

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Revision date: 12.23.15
6
Install Float Bed Liner–continued
10. Move to the remaining corners and repeat the
steps to temporarily secure them to the frame.
7. Repeat the steps to secure the liner material.
8. Check the bottom of the liner for wrinkles and
remove these by working the material toward
the free edge of the liner.
11. While the bed continues to fill, remove any
excess material that touches the ground. Allow
8"-10" to remain for the final steps. It will be
used to pull the liner into final position.
9. Start adding water to the float bed to allow the
water to seat the liner inside the frame.
NOTE: Once the liner is fully secured, there
should be no tension on the fasteners. Adding
water now helps to achieve that result.
12. Continue filling until bed is half full.
13. Complete the steps to prepare and install the
aluminum retaining strap.
6. Cut the material as needed to allow it to fit
more evenly at the corners.
ATTENTION: Do not drop any sharp objects
into the bed liner at any time. Contact your
sales representative for products used to
repair damage to the liner if needed.
LINER INSTALLATION—CONTINUED
ATTENTION: During the installation of the liner, do not drop
any tools or sharp objects into the liner bed. Doing so can
puncture the liner! Exercise caution!

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Prepare and Install Aluminum Retaining Strap
7Take the 112480 aluminum flat stock and mark the mounting hole locations according to the diagram below. Use a 1/4" drill bit to drill the fastener
holes in the center of the stock at 8" on-center. Do not drill these around or on the float bed frame or liner. Doing so can cause filings to drop into the
water. These will damage the water pump once it is installed and running. Drill in a drill press if possible to keep holes uniform. Cut drilled stock to
length as needed during installation. Attach aluminum retaining strap to frame using the FA4472B Tek screws.
Remove Tek screws and
washers before installing the
aluminum retaining straps.
1. Begin at a corner and remove the Tek screw
and washer to install first prepared strap.
4. Apply slight downward force to stretch liner
material and secure strap with Tek screws.
2. Align strap with end of frame and attach using
the FA4472B Tek screw.
5. Continue attaching straps to the frame until
the entire perimeter of the bed liner is secure.
3. Grip edge of bed liner with duck-bill locking
pliers or similar tool.
6. Using a utility knife or scissors, remove excess
bed liner material. Allow 2"-3" to remain below
the edge of the retaining strap.
Drill end holes after placing strip on
frame. Hole placement will vary.
Drill end holes after placing strip on
frame. Hole placement will vary.
8" 8"
on-center
144"

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Revision date: 12.23.15
Prepare the Secondary Filter for the Bioltration Tank
8Prepare Secondary Filter
When installed, the secondary filter helps remove
solids from the water in your aquaponic system.
Place this filter in the biofiltration tank on top of
the netting inside the tank. Complete these steps
to cut the filter from the bulk 112747 material sent
with your system.
1. Take the filter material and spread it out on a
flat, even surface.
2. Next, place a 55 gallon tank on top of the
material to use as a pattern. This tank is larger
than the 15 gallon tank used in the biofiltration
position; using it for the filter pattern will
produce a larger filter to better fit inside the
smaller tank.
NOTE: If filter is too large, trim to the desired
size.
3. With the tank in place, use a scissors to
cut around the tank to create the circular
secondary filter.
ATTENTION: The remainder of the material
can be used for additional secondary filters, or
it can be used to cover your fish tanks when
small fish are present.
4. Fold or roll up the remainder of the material for
future use.
5. Set the tank and filter aside until needed and
continue with the next procedure.
A
C
E
B
D
F

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Tank Plumbing and Installation
9The assembly of the fish-holding tanks and filter tanks can occur simultaneously depending on the number of assistants. To better understand the
overall plumbing of the system, review all of the diagrams and photos on the following pages before you begin. After review, gather the different
components, set the tank frames and tanks, and plumb the system.
To correctly assemble the plumbing:
• Wrap the threads of all outside-the-tank fittings a few times using the WR1095 thread tape before assembly.
• Use the WF6990 pvc cement to connect all remaining fittings to the pvc tubing.
• Dry fit all connections before you glue them to ensure everything fits properly.
IMPORTANT: Consult the services of a
professional plumber if you are unfamiliar with
the basic plumbing practices of cutting and gluing
pvc pipe and fittings.

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Revision date: 12.23.15
Install Tank Fittings and Seals
9a Before you begin setting up your system, take each tank and install the 1-1/2" bulkhead
fitting in the bottom. Next, using the diagrams on the following page, install the seals in the
remaining holes.
1. Take one bulkhead fitting and remove
the locking nut.
4. With someone holding the fitting in
place inside the tank, twist the nut onto
the threads of the fitting. Threads are
reversed. Turn counter-clockwise.
2. Verify that the rubber gasket remains on
the threaded male body of the fitting.
5. After the nut contacts the tank surface,
lightly grip it with a large pair of
adjustable pliers and tighten. Nut should
be snug tight. Do not overtighten.
3. With assistance and the tank on its side,
slide the fitting into the bottom hole from
inside the tank. Rubber gasket is inside
the tank.
6. Inspect the assembly to ensure the nut
is fully seated against the tank. Repeat
these steps to install all remaining
bulkhead fitting.
Rubber Gasket
Rubber Gasket
Locking
Nut
Bulkhead
Body
112965 (1-1/2")
Bulkhead Fitting
Install a 112965 (1-1/2") bulkhead fitting in
bottom of each tank:

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Install Tank Fittings and Seals—continued
After installing all 1-1/2" bulkhead fittings in the bottom of each tank, continue by installing the 1" and 1-1/2" Uniseals®. Press
these seals into the pre-drilled holes from outside the tank.
ATTENTION: Depending on location, most tanks require one or more Uniseals®—1" or 1-1/2". 112710 (1")
112367 (1-1/2")
UniSeals
1. Take the Uniseals® and separate by
size. There are two sizes for this system:
1" (112710) and 1-1/2" (112367).
3. Carefully push the 1" seal into the
hole in the rim of the tank. Install all
remaining 1" seals in the rim. Some
tanks do not need these seals
2. Take the 1" Uniseals® for the overflow
pipes and install in the upper 2" rim of
the tanks as shown.
4. Take all remaining 1-1/2" Uniseals®
and install these in the 2-1/2" pre-drilled
holes in the upper sides of the tanks.
NOTE: Only some tanks include these
pre-drilled holes. Do not use sharp tools
to install. Doing so can damage the seal
and tank surface.
NOTE: Some tanks may only include
a 2-1/2" pre-drilled hole in the sides.
Other tanks, depending on position, may
include multiple holes for the seals.
112367
112710
Install a 112710 (1") Uniseal® in each 1-3/4" hole in the top 2" rim of a tank. Install the 112367 (1-1/2") Uniseals® in each 2-1/2" hole in the side of a tank
near the top. Seal installation depends on tank location in the system. Some tanks do not require seals.
9a

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Follow these steps to prepare and install the plumbing
inside the fish-holding tanks and mineralization tank:
Install Pipes Inside the Tanks
WF2198
1-1/2" PVC
See shaded pipe in large tanks
for standpipe locations.
9b
Install mineralization tank plumbing: Set tank in frame. Disassemble
bulkhead fitting. Attach additional fittings to main bulkhead body, which
will be installed inside tank. Secure bulkhead assembly to tank. End of
2" vertical pipe is 4" below top of tank.
Mineralization Tank:
Plumbing
WF1576
2" PVC
WF1576
2" PVC
WF2199
WF8585
WF2199
4"
1. Cut a section of 1-1/2" pvc tubing (WF4140) that reaches from
the bottom of the tank to the bottom of the connecting pipe.
2. Glue a WF2198 adapter to one end of the tube. Allow the glue
to set. See diagram and photo to the right.
3. Take the assembly and install it in one of the large fish-holding
tanks. Hand-tighten only. Do not tape the fitting threads.
4. Verify that the top of the pipe reaches to the bottom of the
connecting pipe. See dashed line in the diagram below.
5. Repeat these steps for all remaining standpipes for the fish-
holding tanks only.
6. Set large, fish-holding tanks in frames, add a gallon or so of
water, and check the bulkhead fittings for leaks.
7. Move to the mineralization tank and install those fittings and
related inside 2" pipe. Use the diagrams below and to the right.
See diagram
and details
above. Length
of pipe depends
on location of
tank and bed.
Mineralization
Tank
Standpipe is
shaded and
inside the
siphon tube.
Large, fish-
holding tanks:
55 gallons
each
Length of installed standpipe
should reach to the underside of
the connecting pipe.
4"
SET TANK IN FRAME BEFORE YOU
INSTALL BULKHEAD FITTING!

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Upper Connecting Pipes—Between the Tanks
Install the plumbing between the tanks.
1. Set the tank frames in position using the layout diagram as a
guide. See page 5. When filled, tanks are heavy! Position all
tank frames on a level, solid surface. Level all tanks before
filling with water. Once plumbed, these tanks cannot be moved.
Exceeding the space-between-tanks dimensions may require
additional pvc tubing and fittings.
2. Set the tanks in the tank frames and align the tank holes to
install the between-the-tank pipes. Examine the tanks and install
according to the positions shown in the diagrams.
3. Align the holes of the different tanks. After setting tanks in the
frames, verify they are level. Tubing between the larger fish-
holding tanks is 1-1/2"; overflow tubing between the smaller filter
and mineralization tanks is 1". Verify fittings and tubing size on the
diagrams before you cut and glue connections.
9c
WF4140
(1-1/2" PVC)
WF4135
1" overflow
tube
IMPORTANT: All pvc assemblies between the
tanks must be level! After installing these, position
a level between the tanks and adjust frames as
needed. See the diagram. SIDE VIEW
END VIEW
55A
15A 15B
55A
1-1/2" PVC
w/ 112285
Coupling
1" PVC
FLOAT BED
SIDE VIEW
END
VIEW