I’m often asked how one controls the pump that is sending water in an indexing valve, the answer is a repeat cycle timer. This is the perfect way to control a pump running a timed flood and drain aquaponics system and is really perfect for running a sequenced system. I run my sequenced system so that each grow bed gets water for about 9 minutes out of the hour. On a six outlet indexing valve this works out to once an hour for each bed with the pump turning off for a minute between each bed. So the timer is set for 9 minutes of on time and on minute of off time. Of course these timers are adjustable so all sorts of timing is possible.
ART-DNe
C.A.P. Adjustable Recycle Timer
Sorry only one left and I can’t order more at this point. Contact me if you wish to order the One. $85
The replacement timer is here
http://www.aquaponiclynx.com/analog-24hr-recycling-timer
The ART-DNe recylcing timer by Custom Automated Products controls any application requiring a device to be turned on and off at precise intervals. The ART-DNe has a user adjustable on time of 1 second to 40 minutes and an off time of 1 minute to 8 hours. A day/night/both switch allows you to select the time period that the ART-DNe will operate. The ART-DNe timers have a wide range of uses including controlling hydroponic pumps, simple CO2 controller, turning on and off ozone generators, running exhaust fans, etc. ART-DNe timers are rated for 15 amps @ 120 volts. Three year warranty.
I’ve been running this timer for about a month now (as of March 30, 2011) and I’m quite happy with it. I intend to include it as part of any kit that will run a timer controlled pump that runs an indexing valve system and I would also recommend this timer for most situations where a 15 minute increment timer might also work. I’ve had even a higher quality mechanical timer fail before. This timer has the benefit over the Titan Appollo 2 in that the day/night or always is controlled by a switch instead of requiring some combination of nob turns at power up to set it. It also has a really handy reset button to restart the cycles at the press of a button.
Instructions pdf