Maintenance
Maintenance
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Un-clog misting heads
Un-clog misting heads
If a head does not spray evenly or at all probably some debris got into it or it is blocked by calcium deposits. If this happens unscrew the head from the loop and replace it with a spare head (Always have spares!). Try removing debris from the misting head using a piece of strained wire, stick the wire in from the threaded side, spin it a few times and pull it out. If this does not help, remove the rubber O-ring and place the clogged head into pure vinegar. Leave it sitting there for a day, shaking the container from time to time. After 24 hours use compressed air or suction to remove any particles the vinegar loosened, then re-install the O-rings and place back the head into the loop to test it.
Clogging should only happen after assembly when particles can get into the open lines or when the system is not used for a long time and calcium deposits on the heads. Once the system is running for a day it should not get clogged if the filtering operates properly. If heads keep getting clogged double check and clean the fine filter, make sure to use 40μm (micron, micrometer) filter to catch all small particles that could get stuck in the misting heads.
Calcium deposit removal with vinegar
Calcium deposit removal with vinegar
The nutrient solution used to feed the plants has a high concentration of nutrients. Over time these nutrients will deposit on the parts in contact with it and form stains or a white/brown film on surfaces. After every grow I recommend partially filling the reservoir with white vinegar and setting a 15-minute interval spray cycle with 30 seconds priming time and 30 sec spray time. Leave the system running these cycles for 4-5 hours, then drain the vinegar and stash it for next time.
Vinegar only removes mineral deposits, it will not disinfect the aeroponics equipment. For that you will need to use hydrogen peroxide, but before you do that you need to wash out the remaining vinegar from the system. Mixing vinegar and hydrogen peroxide form peracetic acid, which can cause skin irritation and damage your lungs.
Cleaning the metal mesh filters
Cleaning the metal mesh filters
After finishing a grow make sure to disassemble the output and intake filters and wash the metal mesh filters in them. If they show signs of heavy calcium deposit, soak them in vinegar for a few hours and rinse them with water afterward. I like to use an old toothbrush with toothpaste and give the filters a gentle scrub. Once they are clean disinfect them with hydrogen peroxide.
Disinfecting with hydrogen peroxide
Disinfecting with hydrogen peroxide
Before starting a new grow make sure to thoroughly spray the aeroponics tote with a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is a pale blue liquid that kills bacteria, mold, and fungus. Spray it on the surface to be cleaned, wait a few minutes and rinse it off. Keep it out of sunlight and always place the cap back tightly. Do not mix it with vinegar as it will form peracetic acid, which can cause skin irritation and damage your lungs.
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