Why Do My Flex Farm Tanks Smell?

Updated

A pond-like smell in your tanks is typically caused by anaerobic bacteria. Add 2 to 4 tablespoons of store-bought 3% hydrogen peroxide and remove any old rockwool or dead plant matter.

How to Identify the Issue

The water in the tanks has a funky, pond-like, or swampy odor.

What is Happening?

The smell is typically caused by anaerobic bacteria, which thrive in low-oxygen environments. This can happen if the water sits stagnant for a few days (e.g., the pump is off) or if old plant debris is decomposing in the tanks.

Resolution Steps

  1. Add 2-4 tablespoons of store-bought 3% hydrogen peroxide to the tanks. This adds oxygen to the water and helps eliminate the odor-causing bacteria. You can repeat this about once a week until harvest.
  2. Look for and remove any old rockwool or dead plant matter from the tanks. A fine mesh sieve or an aquarium net works well for this.
  3. After harvesting, perform a deep clean or at least a full water refresh.