Quote Originally Posted by Opie Yutts
Different strokes and all, but I can't stand that black air line. It is real stiff, and when it gets stretched out, like to go over an air nozzle, it just stays that shape and likes to kinda just fall off the nozzles after awhile. I got a big roll of supple, soft air tube from the aquarium supply section of a pet store. It's kinda clear, but translucent green, and stays soft forever. Algae is not a problem since it doesn't grow in air lines. It will stay on a nozzle forever, and remain nice and soft a long time.

And check valves: I would not use these unless you have a big air pump. Especially on weaker pumps, they reduce the air flow considerably, like to half or less sometimes. Instead, I use a gravity valve: simply put your pump on a small shelf or something above your reservoir, and the water cannot get into it through the air hoses.

I've got a bunch of em, but I'll try and shut up and let MVP do his thing.
Regarding air line, I pickup up a nice flexible roll from the hydro store and haven't noticed issues yet. Could be just a preference thing but I plan to replace after every couple of cycles since it is so inexpensive. And on my bubblers that have clear line, I haven't noticed any significant discoloration so perhaps it is a non-issue.

I agree with ya Opie on the check valves. I don't use then myself anymore but wanted to bring it up so that people know they are out there and recommended if the air pump is on the ground or sits below the water level in the res. I would rather elevate the pumps and have full force airflow than deal with the check valves.

Anyhow, don't worry about taking over the thread, I was asked by a few folks to start it and explain how I made my bubblers. Now that we have some good experienced folks chipping in, lets keep it going. All ideas are good to post!

MVP :jointsmile:
MVP Reviewed by MVP on . Building a Rubbermaid Hydro Bubbler Unit - Cheap and Effective Okay gang, here is a quick instructional thread on how to build a home made bubbler. I have seen friends use store bought units that are similar (google for Emily??s Garden). If you wanna see the concept, check out Greg Green's book "The Cannabis Grow Bible" where this idea is discussed as well. Getting started - first the parts list: (1) 10-gallon Rubbermaid Roughneck storage bin (Lowes $5.50) (1) ½ inch I.D. clear vinyl flexible tubing, 12? length (Lowes $0.50) (1) ½ inch Rating: 5