Build Your Own Small Space Aquaponics System for Home Gardens

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Small Aquaponics System in Your Urban Garden

Not everyone has room for large aquaponics systems, and not everyone wants to grow fish to eat. In fact, the trend is shifting to make our functional aquaponics systems more stylish and enjoyable - or have more 'flare'.

Having pet fish for the family to relax with and still grow heaps of herbs and veggies in a small space aquaponics system at home.

• By keeping the design simple and easy, this can be the family project to reduce the food costs using your own home aquaponics system.

• A way to relax with the family while tending to your aquaponics garden.

• A way to 'kick the tyres' and learn how aquaponics works without spending a fortune.

• Gain confidence and then expand your small aquaponics system as you get more comfortable.

You are in the right spot to learn how to build your own urban aquaponics system for the home.

You can easily build this for under $100 with second-hand materials in a couple of hours.

Step 1: Watch This Simple Video Guide to Build Your Own Small Aquaponics System

This video will show you how I built this small aquaponics system in a simple, easy way using a drill, hacksaw and jigsaw. Watch and get started building your own small home aquaponics system.

Step 2: Gather the Essential Parts for Your Home Aquaponics Setup

Before you begin building your aquaponics system, you'll need to gather a few essential parts. Some of these can be found at your local hardware store, while others may be more easily sourced from a plumbing store. Here's a list to help you get everything you'll need:

Irrigation Fittings (Poly Pipe Fittings)

They're used to connect different sections of your irrigation system. These are typically available at hardware stores.

• 2m x 13mm Poly Pipe (or Aquarium Hose): Carries water through your system. I used 13mm aquarium hosing since I had some.

• 1 x 13mm In-Line Barbed Tap (Valve): Controls and regulates water flow through your system.

• 1 x 13mm Poly Barbed Tee Fitting: Connects three pieces of pipe in a T-shape, directing water flow in multiple directions.

• 1 x 13 x 15mm Barbed Male Threaded Elbow Adapter: Joins pipes at a 90-degree angle and provides a threaded connection for stability.

• 2 x 13mm Barbed In-Line Tap: Used to control the water flow at different sections of your system, allowing for precise adjustments.

PVC plumbing fittings

These are essential for connecting sections of PVC pipe. They can be purchased for your home aquaponics system at both hardware and plumbing stores, though plumbing stores may offer lower prices.

• 0.5m x 150mm Pipe (for Mechanical Filter): Used in your system's mechanical filter to help filter out debris and keep the water clean. Plumbing stores often have scrap pieces that can be used. ask them!

• 1 x 150mm Cap: Seals the end of your pipe, preventing water from leaking out.

• 1 x 1m 100mm (or 90mm) PVC DWV (Drainage or Stormwater Pipe, not Pressure Pipe): Used to carry water in your drainage system; choose drainage or stormwater pipe, not pressure pipe.

• 2 x PVC Push-On Cap (same size as pipe: 100mm or 90mm): Used to seal off the ends of your drainage pipe and ensure water doesn't leak out.

• 1.5m x 20mm PVC Pressure Pipe: Used for pressurised water flow in your aquaponics system.

• 2 x 20mm 90° PVC Pressure Pipe Elbow: Helps change the direction of your pressurised pipes at a 90-degree angle.

• 2 x 20mm x 3/4" PVC Press Female Thread Iron Adapter (also called Coupling): Connects sections of pipe together, providing a secure threaded joint for stability.

• 2 x 20mm x 3/4" Press PVC BSP Male Thread Adapter (also called Coupling): Similar to the female adapter, this part connects and secures sections of pipe with a threaded male end.

• 2 O-Rings: Provides a watertight seal between fittings, ensuring no water leaks at the joints and are easy to get from plumbing store for single purchase.

Step 3: Find the Best Deals for Your Aquaponics Parts - Go Shopping!

Now for the fun part - shopping! Before you build anything, compare prices of local suppliers or online for affordable aquaponics parts to find great deals. You can also find out the prices on Facebook Marketplace for Drums, local Facebook groups can sometimes help in local areas for suppliers. Once you've created your list, you can either order the parts online or shop locally.

Pro tip: If you are penny-pushing, check the trade sections of plumbing and irrigation suppliers instead of hardware stores for your home aquaponics system parts.

Step 4: Build Your Easy Home Aquaponics System with Family Fun

This step is perfect for family bonding. Teach the kids valuable DIY home aquaponics system skills, from measuring to assembling, while discussing the types of freshwater pet fish and the herbs and veggies you'll grow together. It's an opportunity to unleash creativity as each family member can contribute to different aspects of the build.

It's also a great chance to relax, unplug, and bond over something fun and educational. Not only will you be creating a unique family project, but you'll also be setting up a system that provides fresh herbs and veggies, saving money on groceries in the long run. This family aquaponics project will teach your kids about sustainability and provide lasting benefits as you expand and improve the system together.

Know someone who would love to build their own aquaponics system? Share this guide with them!

Step 5. Learn More on My YouTube Channel for Aquaponics Tips: Candy The Aquaponics Lady

Aquaponics is an ecosystem, and with anything it takes time to learn how it works. So, sit back and binge watch my 'how to' playlist and the 'Water Quality Made Simple' Playlist, and learn the next steps in your aquaponics system as you create the ecosystem.

Here are the next 2 videos I recommend you watch to create your ecosystem ~ before you add any fish.

How Aquaponics Works as an Ecosystem

How to Cycle Your Aquaponics System (How to colonise it with bacteria)

Want to get your Eyes and Hands on the FREE Online Aquaponics Essentials Course?

This is a great free resource to really understand how aquaponics is a sustainable ecosystem that will grow your organic food is a productive way.

You learn how all the 'parts' make up the 'whole', and helps to give you the foundations of understanding aquaponics.

Sign up HERE

Candy Alexander is a dedicated aquaponics enthusiast with a wealth of formal training in aquaculture. Over the past 15 years, Candy has been deeply immersed in both commercial and backyard aquaponics, honing her skills and expertise in this sustainable farming method.

Candy's passion lies in making aquaponics accessible to everyone. With a mission to simplify aquaponics, she believes that anyone can embark on this sustainable journey.

She encourages those new to aquaponics to "kick the tires" without a significant financial investment. Her guidance focuses on helping people start their aquaponics journey with small-scale systems, ensuring a low barrier to entry for newcomers.

Candy shares practical tips, step-by-step guides, and personal stories to inspire and guide readers on their aquaponics adventure. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or a curious beginner, Candy Alexander is your go-to source for simplifying aquaponics and fostering a sustainable gardening experience.