Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Build Your Very Own, Small Aquaponics System in Your Urban Garden at Home

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

Pet fish for the family to relax with, and still grow heaps of herbs and some 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

• a way to relax with the family

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

• gain confidence and then expand.

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 video to see how easy it is to build

This video will show you how I built this small aquaponics system in a simple, easy way using a drill, hacksaw and jigsaw.

Step 2. Check out the list of parts you will need below

Irrigation fittings (Poly Pipe fittings) (Hardware store easiest)

• 2m x 13mm Poly Pipe (I used 13mm aquarium hosing as I had it)

• 1 x 13mm In-Line Barbed Tap (valve)

• 1 x 13mm Poly barbed Tee fitting

• 1 x 13 x 15mm barbed male threaded elbow adapter

• 2 x 13mm Barbed In-line tap

PVC plumbing fittings (available at hardware store but cheaper at a plumbing store)

• 0.5m x 150mm pipe (for mechanical filter) ~ a plumbing store may have scraps around, ask them!

• 1 x 150mm cap

• 1 x 1m 100mm (or 90mm) PVC DWV (Drainage or stormwater pipe, not pressure pipe)

• 2 x PVC Push On Cap (same size you choose either 100mm or 90mm pipe)

• 1.5m x 20mm PVC Pressure Pipe

• 2 x 20mm 90 Deg PVC Pressure Pipe Elbow

• 2 x 20mm x 3/4" PVC Press Female Thread Iron Adaptor (also called coupling)

• 2 x 20mm x 3 / 4" Press PVC BSP Male Thread Adaptor (also called coupling)

• 2 O-Rings (easy to get from Plumbing store for single purchase)

Step 3. Go Shopping!

Now for the fun part. Before you build anything, find out the prices on Facebook Marketplace for Drums, local Facebook groups can sometimes help in local areas for suppliers. Then with your list, you can order the parts online or go shopping to collect them.

*Pro tip ~ if you are penny pushing, go to the trade section of plumbing suppliers and also irrigation suppliers, not hardware stores for cheaper deals.

Step 4. Build this home aquaponics system with the family

This can be one of those real bonding moments with the kids, teaching them how to DIY, learn to use their hands and get involved in different areas, even the measuring.

A chance to connect and talk about the type of pet freshwater fish you want to have, and the types of herbs and veggies you want to be growing.

It can also be a time to chill out and relax by doing something with your hands.

Step 5. Check out My YouTube Channel '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 watching 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.