Q&A for How to Make an Indoor Aquaponics System

To repurpose an old TV into an aquaponic system, begin by removing electronic components and the glass screen. Utilize the TV frame as the foundational structure for the aquaponic setup. Install a waterproof lining inside the TV frame to create a water reservoir. Add a submersible water pump to circulate water from the reservoir to the grow bed. Incorporate a grow bed filled with a suitable growing medium for plants. Integrate an aquaculture component by including a fish tank connected with plumbing to facilitate nutrient-rich water circulation. Test the system thoroughly for leaks, ensuring the waterproofing integrity of the TV frame. Seal any small holes or gaps as necessary to maintain the quality and functionality of the aquaponic system. Finally, introduce fish to the tank, completing the transformation of the old TV into an innovative and sustainable aquaponic setup.

Rubbermaid containers from Walmart or old refrigerator drawers would be a quick and simple option. You can also try this: at the T-joint where you will position the flow valve to control the amount of water going into the plant bed, put a small screw-together, removable section of pipe so that you can put some sort of filter media in it (sponge-like would be best), so that the fish waste intended for the plant bed does not go directly back into the fish tank. Only put this filter in after the T-joint on the side is going directly back into fish tank. Make sure this section is removable for cleaning.

Yes, just be careful. They are curious creatures and will try to get into everything. I suggest you don't plant anything harmful to cats, and keep an eye on any interest in catching fish.

I would recommend using leca. It's cheap and supports the bacteria that is needed to break down the nitrates from fish waste. It is also light and absorbent, so it can hold a lot of water without collapsing the shelf.

The only cleaning necessary is when you see visible debris or dirt on the bottom of the fish tank. This can be easily siphoned out, just make sure you replace the water you siphon out with dechlorinated tap water.

It shouldn't. I own MANY fish tanks, and only the goldfish tend to have a "fishy" smell.

That depends on the species of fish you are using. It is best to use fish pellets that have been formulated specifically for that species's dietary needs. They may also need to be feed 2-6 times a day, depending on the species.

Think of it this way. Instead of volume, look for a grow bed that's at least half the size of the primary tank. The species of fish you want to use will determine the size of the primary tank, which in turn determines size of the grow bed. How much waste the fish produce, will determine how many plants you will need to be growing to help maintain a healthy system.

Yes and no. The reason for the grow bed in this design, is not only to help remove the solid fish waste from the water, but to also give a surface for bacteria to colonize and convert the ammonia into nitrogen for the plants to feed on. Without it, you will need to perform regular water changes, which defeats the purpose of the system. You could use a second tank as a deep water culture if you wanted. Simply have the water drain out of the filter media into the second tank at one end, and drain back into the primary fish tank from the other. In this tank store a hardy shrimp species, and they'll happily clean the roots for you.