Design Channel Slope and Length
Half dayPlan 1–2% channel slope, calculate flow rate GPM for film depth, and size nutrient stock tank for weekly dilution.
Intermediate2-3 weeks
Nft System Build
Complete guide for nft system build — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
system builderscommercial starters
Workflow
Size Pump, Reservoir, and Stock Solution
1 dayMatch pump GPM to channel count, size catch reservoir for 5-minute pump-off hold, dilute stock concentrate to working EC.
Plumb Channels and Flow-Test Film
1–2 daysInstall channels on slope, verify even film across all channels at calculated GPM, adjust end caps and slope shims.
Start Seedlings and Monitor EC Drift
1 weekTransplant to channel baskets when roots emerge, log EC and pH twice daily first week, adjust stock dilution as uptake stabilizes.
Tools Used
- NFT Channel Flow RatePrimary
Calculates pump GPM and channel slope for proper nutrient film depth.
- Nutrient Stock Solution DilutionPrimary
Dilutes concentrate stock to working solution EC for NFT reservoir.
- Nutrient Solution EC CalculatorSupporting
Tracks EC targets through vegetative and flowering crop stages.
- Hydroponic Water Change IntervalReference
Determines when to refresh NFT reservoir based on volume and plant load.
Checklist
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Water Quality
Electrical
System
Monitoring
Maintenance
Equipment
Reference Materials
NFT Flow GuidelinesTable
NFT Flow Guidelines
| Channel Width | Target GPM | Slope |
|---|---|---|
| 2 in | 0.5–1.0 | 1:100 |
| 4 in | 1.0–2.0 | 1:100 |
| 6 in | 2.0–4.0 | 1:100 |
Stock DilutionFormula
Working EC = (stock EC × stock volume) ÷ total reservoir volume after top-up.
Pump BackupStandard
NFT channels dry in minutes without flow — use redundant pump or flow switch alarm.
Stabilize pH First
Adjust pH before adding nutrients — pH drift after mixing wastes expensive inputs.
Root Zone Temp
Keep reservoir 65–70°F — warmer water holds less oxygen and invites root rot.
Electrical Safety
Drip loops on all cords entering reservoirs and GFCI on every outlet.
Safety Notes
- Keep electrical components away from water — use GFCI outlets for all pumps and lights.
- Monitor pH and nutrient levels daily — imbalances kill plants quickly.