 DIY help
All, I have been feverishly studying Water chemistry, aquatic biology, and every diy site I could find. (New mechanical filter is finally doing it's job.)
I need to build a degasser (tired 5000 gallon pond. Have to build a new one.)
After pricing the different options available from others designs here is what I came up with. (I also need to build a protein skimmer and a bottom drain.) I am budgeting $400-$500 for this project and also a new $500 pump.
OPTION 1
6 gallon dairy crates (16"x13"x11") placed on a (very sturdy) PVC shelf directly over pond.
4 crates high, two crates deep, 2 crates wide. Total of 16 crates. Tied together with zip ties?
TOTAL 96 gallon
PROS: less expensive, easier to put together
CONS: handles in crate take up media space, splashy, need sun protection
Option 2
Heavy duty 26 gallon container (27x18x14.5".)
4 crates high placed in very sturdy PVC stand on PVC shelf directly over pond.
I will have to cut a rectangle out of bottom and fasten heavy duty welded 3/4" STAINLESS STEEL mesh.
TOTAL 104 gallon
PROS: air space between each container, 3/4" SS mesh larger void for water flow.
Won't have to drill a gazillion holes on bottom that will fill up with gunk.
CONS: With 5" air space between each container this thing will be at 6' tall. Will have the extra expense (a ton of 4way and tee fittings) to build a very strong container stand.
Bio Media: approx. 13 square feet of bio balls
New pump $500
Thank You for help, Lori
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