Ebb and Flow systems use two reservoirs. One large one to store the nutrient solution, and another smaller reservoir to contain the plants. Several times daily, a small pump in the storage reservoir fills the plant reservoir. After filling the plant reservoir, the pump is shut off and the water returns to the storage reservoir.
Commercial Ebb and Flo Hydroponic equipment is very expensive. Home made systems can be created for as little as $100.
With a bit of creativity, you can build your own for little investment.
Purchase a large reservoir.
Place a smaller reservoir inside it.
Install inlet and overflow fittings. These fittings, named THROUGH-HULLS are found at hardware stores in the boating section. They are used for pumping bilge water out of a boat. They come in two sizes. I use one of each.
Fasten a pump to the inlet fitting with a length of suitable hose. (below the top reservoir)
Insert a piece of HOSE in the larger fitting to act as an overflow. (The black hose in the picture)
Adjust the height of the overflow hose to ensure the plant baskets get wet.
Drill basket holes in the lid.
Insert NFT baskets in the holes.
Complete ebb & flo system
I used a 68.1L (18 Gallon) container for the bottom, and a 37.9L (10 Gallon) container for the top.
This image shows the fittings in the top reservoir.
The smaller diameter through-hull (top left) has the pump attached beneath it.
The larger diameter through-hull has a small length of hose inserted in it to act as an adjustable overflow.
Image showing underside of fittings with pump installed
NOTE: we have since secured the pump's powercord to the through-hull it is attached to, using a vinyl tiewrap.
The hose clamps just weren't secure enough on their own.