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Revision date: 05.13.20 112529
OPERATIONAL AND MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
General Operating Instructions
After assembling the 112529 Dutch bucket system, take a few minutes to
check the system. Complete these steps.
1. Verify that all electrical cord ends are outside the reservoir.
2. Place all dripper stakes inside a Dutch bucket and verify that all bucket
drain nipples are inside a drain tube hole.
3. Fill the reservoir with a few inches of water to cover the pump.
4. Plug the water and air pump power cords into an GFCI (Ground Fault
Circuit Interrupter) outlet. Both pumps should turn on.
General Cleaning and Maintenance Instructions
For optimal performance and to increase yields, check and clean the Dutch
bucket system periodically. Time between maintenance and cleaning
depends on the growing environment and specific use of the system. Apply
the following steps as needed to ensure that your system is working properly.
1. Inspect the frame and mounting bolts to ensure bolts are tight and frame
is not damaged. Verify that levelers are locked in place and that the table
is level at the ends with a slight slope toward the drain end of the drain
tube.
2. Disconnect the main power supply to turn off all pumps. Remove
the reservoir cover and inspect the inside of the reservoir. Reservoir
should be cleaned each time the nutrient solution is changed. Keep the
porthole cover in place during operation to prevent light from entering the
reservoir.
3. Check all plumbing and irrigation connections to ensure that all are
operating as designed.
4. Replace worn or cracked irrigation lines and barbs as needed.
5. Clean the drain tube if needed. Remove the end plugs and inspect
the inside of the tube. Reroute the drain tube so it does not empty into
the reservoir and then clean the drain tube by pulling a brush or cloth
through the tube. Rinse with clean water and reposition the drain tube for
operation.
NOTE:
Do not allow debris from the drain tube to contaminate the
contents of the reservoir.
6. With the pump off, disassemble the filter and clean the screen and
housing. Reassemble for use.
5. Check each Dutch bucket to ensure that water is dripping from each
dripper stake.
6. Check all plumbing connections—supply and drain tubes—for leaks.
7. Allow the pump to operate until water is running through the drain tube
and back to the reservoir. Check all pvc fittings for leaks.
NOTE:
Use the 3/8" x 2 1/2" levelers of the table frame to set a slight
slope toward the reservoir if needed.
8. Look for bubbles in the reservoir to verify that the air is pumping to each
air stone. Remember to always mount the air pump on a surface that
is above the water level. Vibrations of the pump can cause it to move.
Make sure the pump does not fall into the reservoir or other liquids.
9. Once the system has been checked and all adjustments are made, it is
ready for use.
WARNING:
KEEP ALL ELECTRICAL CORDS AND CONNECTIONS
OUT OF THE RESERVOIR. CONSULT THE SERVICES OF A
QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN TO ADEQUATELY AND SAFELY
CONNECT THE PUMPS TO A POWER SUPPLY.
ALL ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS SHALL BE DESIGNED IN
ACCORDANCE WITH LOCAL AND REGIONAL BUILDING CODES
AND STANDARDS.
112531 Heavy
Duty Timer
USING THE 112531 TIMER
The 112531 timer allows for a variety of settings to
control the water pump of your Dutch bucket system.
Consult the guide supplied with the 112531 timer for
installation, use, programing, and troubleshooting
details.
NOTE:
Do not connect the air pump to the timer. Air
pump must run continuously for best results.
