Build a ph doser/controller - under $100 - tutorial

[Zandor]

If you need to tighten up the step down hoses try zip ties.

[mountainman]

So, drip valves in irrigation section? Cause home depot here has all their irrigation stuff packed away till winter is over ;-)

[GluteusMaximus]

I remember seeing a step down adapter at the auto parts store. They're made for vacuum hose and usually will reduce down to a tiny tube (very tiny).

Just a thought.

GM

[mountainman]

Just got the drippers for like 50 cents each. Got three different flowrates to play with. Once I get it tested out, I'll write an addition for the FAQ and hopefull Zandor can add it in.

Also, that was a good idea for building homemade reducers, I don't know why I didn't think of that. Works like a charm.

[mountainman]

Well, my system got filled up again monday, and I've been testing out the semi-homemade doser. Overall, good results. I would highly recommend using drippers for the acid, though. Even with a 1/2 gph dripper, the ph changes fairly fast when dosing, although you can also control the ph change rate with the concentration of the acid too.

But, it's been wonderful. Been spending more time watching, less time balancing! Totally worth the $100. I'm sure the plants are happy with it too. The ph has always been staying between 5.9 and 6.0, but gonna turn it just slightly lower.

Gen, get yours yet?

[GluteusMaximus]

I was wondering about the sensitivity of the probe being near the dispenser. Without very sensitive adjustments it would seem that you could easily overdose the resevoire if the current pulled the concentration away from the probe.

As a thought, how about putting the probe inside a cup with the dispenser tube in the cup as well (cup inside resevoire)....that way a small dose would immediately trigger the shut-off. The cup of high ph would then drift into the resevoire at a slower pace without having to dillute the solution.

GM

[mountainman]

You've got the right idea, however everything is working just fine right now, and besides, it's great for the price you pay for it, and if you balance by hand you'll somtimes see swings of .7 of a ph point. Swings of less than .2 every once in a while aren't too bad.

[mountainman]

Ok, so I've gotten everything working great! It takes just a bit of futzing, but really isn't hard at all. It works great and my plants LOVE it!

Anyone else get one yet and test it? I'd love to hear your results.

[Gen]

still waiting for my controller. I will have tons of questions once I get my stuff. Do you have any more pictures of your grow. I would love to make one.

[mountainman]

I can take pictures of whatever you want with my digital camera. Just lemme know, and I'll be more than happy to help you along the way too.