Building an aquaponics system is relatively simple and only requires basic hand tools such as a drill, saw or pvc pipe cutter, and a utility knife. The basic home aquaponics system consists of 3 major components.

The fish tank, grow bed, and water circulation system. The fish tank is usually tall such as a stock tank with an opaque surface to block out the sun. Too much sunlight with create autotrophic organisms known as algae which is harmful to the fish.

Some users are creating systems using water barrels or IBC tanks but they should be painted on the outside to minimize sunlight. I personally prefer to use Rubbermaid stock tanks because of their durability.

The grow bed can be plastic or built out of wood with a plastic liner. Some users again are using water barrels but they tend to be flimsy and need to be propped up on some sort of framework due to the round structure.

IBC totes are also used but need the tote's framework to keep it's structure.

The WCS ( water circulation system ) consists of a water pump strong enough to circulate water upward to the grow bed where it is then gravity fed back into the tank. There are also valves that are needed to regulate the flow rate into the grow beds.

The water is constantly being circulated unless it is on a timer so the pump is always on. Please keep in mind that if you build a DIY system you can save thousands over purchasing a pre - built kit. Once you've proven to yourself that aquaponics can work for you on a small scale, you can upgrade to whatever scale you like simply by multiplying the number of aquaponic systems and increasing organic food growing.