Root clog rdwc

Magron

Active Member
Has anyone used paint strainer bags to prevent root clog in rdwc? I have been growing for about 5 or 6 years and I'm going back to 5 gallon buckets with 1.25 inch uniseal and I'm worried about clogs. I also thought about cutting off the bottom half of another 5 gallon bucket, punch a lot of holes in thebottom, flip it and press it down in the other bucket to prevent clogs. Any thoughts???,
 

Jpwt92

Active Member
Use bigger branching pipes for your buckets if you're worried about clogs I used 3" pipes with uniseal's for when I did RDWC.
cutting up one and making a Frankenstein bucket just sounds like a recipe for disaster to me, you wouldn't want a leak or a potential separation of the 2 buckets.
there are 7gal buckets out there or you could even go for a tote but that'd mean you'd have to up your pumps if they're unable to move that amount of water already.
 

Magron

Active Member
Use bigger branching pipes for your buckets if you're worried about clogs I used 3" pipes with uniseal's for when I did RDWC.
cutting up one and making a Frankenstein bucket just sounds like a recipe for disaster to me, you wouldn't want a leak or a potential separation of the 2 buckets.
there are 7gal buckets out there or you could even go for a tote but that'd mean you'd have to up your pumps if they're unable to move that amount of water already.
Thanks for getting back..unfortunately the system has been built. No.leaks but the roots will probably fill the buckets. I will keep it simple..(no Frankenstein and let you guys know how it goes. Thanks again
 

Sdh777

Well-Known Member
I use paint strainers in an RDWC system with 5 gal buckets and 1-1/2” bulkheads. They work great and also keep any debris out of circulation. I’ve never had a clog and I‘ve grown some big plants and buds.E7429C4C-4372-4CA2-B2BB-7A18C4050D7E.png
 
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