What You'll Need
A complete 4-bucket RDWC setup includes:
- 4 × 25L planting buckets
- 1 × 25L reservoir bucket
- Water pump and recirculating pipework
- Air stones, airline tubing, and an air pump (sold separately)
- 15cm net pots
- Clay pebbles (growing medium)
- Nutrients and pH testing kit (sold separately)
Our Four Bucket RDWC System 25L Complete Kit includes the buckets, pump, pipework, net pots, air stones, and clay pebbles — everything you need to get the system running. You'll just need to add nutrients and an air pump to get growing.
Step 1 — Position Your Buckets
Place your 4 planting buckets in a row or square formation. Keep the reservoir bucket accessible — you'll be checking it regularly. Ensure the surface is level so water circulates evenly.
Step 2 — Connect the Pipework
Connect the PVC pipework between all buckets and the reservoir. Water flows from the reservoir, through each bucket, and back — this is the recirculating loop that keeps oxygen and nutrients consistent across all plants.
Step 3 — Install the Water Pump
Place the water pump in the reservoir bucket and connect it to the inlet pipe. The pump drives water through the system continuously, ensuring every plant receives the same nutrient solution.
Step 4 — Set Up Air Stones
Drop one air stone into each planting bucket and connect the airline tubing to your air pump. Air stones oxygenate the root zone — critical for fast, healthy growth in RDWC.
Step 5 — Add Clay Pebbles
Rinse your clay pebbles thoroughly before use. Fill each net pot and bucket base with clay pebbles. They anchor your plants and allow roots to hang freely into the nutrient solution below.
Step 6 — Fill With Nutrient Solution
Fill the reservoir with water and add your nutrients according to the manufacturer's schedule. Check and adjust pH to 5.5–6.5. The recirculating pump will distribute the solution evenly across all buckets.
Step 7 — Test Before You Plant
Run the system for 24 hours before adding plants. Check for leaks, confirm water is circulating to all buckets, and verify pH and EC levels are stable.
Step 8 — Plant and Monitor
Place seedlings or cuttings into the net pots. Roots will reach the nutrient solution within days. Check pH and EC every 2–3 days and top up the reservoir as needed.
Need Help or Spare Parts?
Spare parts are available — just reach out via live chat on the store or email us at hello@mushroomtec.co and we'll get you sorted.
Ready to Get Started?
The Four Bucket RDWC System 25L Complete Kit is the simplest way to get this setup running. Not sure if a 4-bucket system is the right size? Browse our full range of RDWC systems to find the perfect fit for your grow space.
Not sure if RDWC is right for you? Read our RDWC vs DWC guide first.