Grow Room Setup (Part 1 of 2)
Setting up a proper grow environment is crucial for a successful cannabis cultivation. In this guide, we provide comprehensive recommendations for all the essential components you’ll need to create an optimal indoor grow space based on your available space and cultivation goals. Our Grow Room Setup guide cover key aspects such as selecting the best grow tents, ventilation equipment, and climate control accessories to ensure a healthy and thriving cannabis grow.
Grow Tents & Spaces
Grow Tents
A grow tent offers numerous advantages for home growers, providing control over the climate and light conditions for plants. Their reflective interior maximizes the efficient use of light, and their versatility allows for easy setup and storage.
Among the various brands available, we highly recommend two standout options. Vivosun tents are known for their excellent quality and affordability. Constructed with 600D canvas, metal poles, and reliable zippers, they offer a great user experience with minimal light leaks. We particularly recommend Vivosun tents for sizes 3′ x 3′ and above (see below). However, we advise against the Vivosun 4′ x 2′ tent due to its inadequate height.
On the other hand, Mars Hydro tents are an upgraded choice, surpassing the quality of most other grow tents on the market. Featuring 1680D canvas, sturdy metal poles, and reliable zippers, Mars Hydro tents offer exceptional durability. We specifically recommend the Mars Hydro tent for the 4′ x 2′ size, as it provides additional height compared to similar tents. For other sizes, we still recommend the Vivosun tents based on their value and affordability. If you are looking for an upgrade from Vivosun, Mars Hydro tents are an excellent option.
4′ x 2′ Grow Tent
A 4’ x 2’ tent is a convenient size for a small home grow. They offer easy access to the plants and a convenient shape for most rooms. When selecting a tent be aware of the vertical height. Many 4’ x 2’ grow tents are only 60” tall, which is shorter than we recommend. The Mars Hydro tent that we recommend is a little more expensive than the shorter 4’ x 2’ tents, but it offers 70” of interior height.Light needed for 4’x 2’ Tent: Optimal True PPF = 520 µmolHarvest Estimate: 234 – 338 grams, 8.4 – 12.1 ounces
3×3 Grow Tent
A 3’ x 3’ (1meter x 1meter) tent is slightly larger than a 4’ x 2’ tent and may offer a more convenient shape for your room. Like with all smaller tents, you need to be aware of the vertical height. We recommend the Vivosun 3’ x 3’ tent which is 72” tall.Light needed for 3’x 3’ Tent: Optimal True PPF = 585 µmolHarvest Estimate: 263 – 380 grams, 9.4 – 13.6 ounces
4×4 Grow Tent
A 4×4 (1.2meter x 1.2 meter) tent is pretty much the standard for most home growers. They are typically 80” tall and offer enough space for growing a decent harvest. Both Dr. Photon and I use 4×4 tents. The Vivosun tent that we recommend is the best deal on a quality 4’ x 4’ grow tent.Light needed for 4’x 4’ Tent: Optimal True PPF = 1040 µmolHarvest Estimate: 468 – 676 grams, 16.7 – 24.1 ounces
5×5 Grow Tent
With a 5×5 (1.5meter x 1.5meter) tent you can really increase production. These tents have a total of 25 square feet and can produce significantly more than smaller tents. However, they are quite large so make sure that you have enough room for it.Light needed for 5’x 5’ Tent: Optimal True PPF = 1625 µmolHarvest Estimate: 731 – 1056 grams, 26.1 – 37.7 ounces
Create Your Own Grow Space
If you do not want to get a grow tent, then there are a few products that you can use to help modify your existing space to be reflective and sealed.
Panda Film
Panda Film is white on one side and black on the other. The black provides light protection from outside light sources during the dark period. The white side is over 90% reflective and helps increase the efficient use of your lights.
Mylar Film
Mylar film is more reflective than Panda film, but it is not as easy to work with. This is great to use to line the walls if you are converting a small room or closet, but it is not convenient for sealing openings or doors.
Aluminum Foil Tape
Whether you are using a grow tent or creating your own space, aluminum foil tape is incredibly useful stuff. You can use it to seal up light leaks or cover any light absorbing items in your tent. I used it to cover the bench inside my tent.
VENTILATION
Exhaust Systems
In a ventilated grow space, the exhaust system is one of the most critical components.
The exhaust system that you need will depend on the size of your grow space, the heat generated by your grow lights, and the climate that you are working with.
4″ Exhaust Kit
These exhaust systems are a perfect starter kit for a 4′ x 4′ tent running LED lights. The kits come with exhaust fans, carbon filters and some ducting. If you are setting up a home grow on a budget these kits are a great option.
6″ Exhaust Kit
These 6″ exhaust kits are adequate for small HID set-ups or LED rooms up to 6’x6’. The fans that are included are more powerful than the 4″ options above, and if you are concerned at all about managing heat or humidity, these kits would make a better choice. This 6″ fan also features a speed controller.
Exhaust Fans
While the starter kits mentioned earlier include exhaust fans, there are compelling reasons to consider an upgrade. We highly recommend the AC Infinity fans as an enhanced option. These fans offer superior performance with increased power, quieter operation, and integrated heat and humidity sensors for precise climate control. With these fans, you can actively manage and optimize the grow space conditions to ensure the well-being of your plants. While they may require an additional investment, the benefits they provide in climate management make them well worth considering.
4″ Mixed Flow Fan
The AC Infinity Cloudline T4 is our top pick for 4” exhaust fans. This fan moves 205 CFM making it perfect for grow tents up to 4’ x 4’. It comes with an “intelligent controller” and corded sensor probe. It is easy to program and will turn on and off depending on the heat and humidity in the grow space. I just upgraded to this fan and am impressed with how much quieter it is than the fan that I used before.
6″ Mixed Flow Fan
The AC Infinity Cloudline T6 is an even more powerful model that moves 402 CFM. It is perfect for tents up to 5’ x 5’ or for anyone who really struggles with heat and humidity in their grow space. Like the Cloudline T4, it comes with an “intelligent controller” and corded sensor probe. In the UK, we linked an HG Power fan which is comparable in power and build quality.
Carbon Filters
Carbon filters attach to the intake end of your exhaust system (inside the grow space). The exhaust fan pulls air through the filter (and then through the hood of HID lights), and then pushes it out of the grow space.
4″ Carbon Filter
I use the iPower carbon filters linked for US and Canada. They hold up well and do an excellent job controlling the smell of flowering cannabis plants. The Ram Filter linked for the UK is comparable.
6″ Carbon Filter
If you have a 6″ exhaust system you will need a 6″ carbon filter. Different pricing and availability led us to select different brands in each amazon market.
Duct Clamps
4″ Turn-Key Duct Clamps
If you have 4” fans and ducting, I highly recommend these clamps. They can easily be secured and removed without tools, which is super convenient even if you have the tools. Well worth the simplicity when you must change a component or re-run a line while hovering over your plants.
6″ Turn-Key Duct Clamps
If you use 6″ ducting, this is the set of clamps for you. We are looking for similar products in Canada and the UK.
Semi Rigid Duct Hose
I use and recommend “Semi-Rigid Flexible ducting”. It has much better airflow than other flexible ducting, which improves the efficiency of your fans. It is easy to shape into any position and it holds its shape.
4″ Semi Rigid Ducting
Semi Rigid Ducting for 4″ diameter ventilation systems
6″ Semi Rigid Ducting
Semi Rigid Ducting for 6″ diameter ventilation systems
Intake Fan
Implementing an active intake system is crucial for maintaining optimal climate control within your grow space. Without an active intake fan, relying solely on a powerful exhaust fan can create imbalances and potential issues such as the tent collapsing inward. While passive air intake may suffice for smaller grows with minimal heat and humidity concerns, utilizing an active intake fan is recommended for better air pressure balance.
When selecting an intake fan, it’s important to ensure that the exhaust fan remains more powerful than the intake fan. Cheaper inline fans that struggle against resistance should be avoided, as should high-powered fans that would eliminate the desired negative air pressure within the tent. Striking the right balance in fan selection is key to achieving effective climate control for your cannabis grow.
6″ Duct Booster Fans
These 6″ duct booster fans are great options for active air intake in most grow tents. They will pair well with any of the exhaust kits that we link above.
CLIMATE CONTROL
Thermometers & Hygrometers
In order to control the climate, you first have to know what it is!
Ambient Weather WS-10
The weather station system recommended here offers unparalleled functionality in monitoring your grow environment. With Radio Frequency remote sensors, it allows you to track and measure temperature and humidity levels at multiple locations within your grow space. The system supports up to 8 receivers, providing comprehensive monitoring capabilities.
You have the flexibility to position the main display wherever it is most convenient for you, while still having the ability to monitor and assess heat and humidity levels at various points throughout your grow area. This powerful climate monitoring tool is well-suited for growers of any scale, offering accurate and reliable data to help you maintain optimal conditions for your plants.
Hygrometers with Probe
To provide a more budget-friendly option, we suggest opting for a hygrometer equipped with a wired probe that can accurately measure the temperature and humidity levels inside your grow space. This type of hygrometer allows you to mount the main unit outside the tent while running the probe through a port into the tent for precise readings.
It’s important to note that many similar units on the market only measure temperature with the wired probe, despite appearing to measure both temperature and humidity. However, the hygrometers recommended here are capable of measuring both temperature and humidity using the probes, ensuring accurate monitoring of both variables.
By utilizing these hygrometers in different ways throughout your grow, you can effectively track and maintain the desired temperature and humidity levels for optimal plant growth and health.
Check out our “Measuring Equipment” page for other Thermometer/Hygrometer options!
Circulating Fans
Maintaining proper air circulation inside the grow space is crucial for creating an optimal environment for plant growth. While excessive wind can be harmful, a gentle and consistent airflow is necessary to promote healthy conditions and minimize the risk of pathogens. To achieve this, we recommend using two fans strategically placed within the grow space.
When selecting the fans, it’s essential to consider both your budget and the size of your grow space. Here are some options to choose from:
- Oscillating Fans: These fans provide a gentle, back-and-forth motion to circulate air evenly throughout the grow space. They are available in various sizes and are often budget-friendly.
- Clip-On Fans: Compact and versatile, clip-on fans can be easily attached to the grow tent poles or other fixtures. They offer adjustable airflow and are ideal for smaller grow spaces or tight corners.
- Tower Fans: Tower fans are tall, slender units that distribute air vertically. They are suitable for larger grow spaces and can provide efficient air circulation without taking up much floor space.
Remember to position the fans strategically to create a gentle breeze that reaches all parts of the plants without causing damage. Proper airflow helps maintain a healthy environment and reduces the risk of mold or other plant issues.
8″ Oscillating Fan
These little fans are ubiquitous in grow tents! They are small and convenient and are the best low budget option for oscillating fans.
6″ Clip Fan
These are the easiest way to blow air around the canopy during the flowering period. Just clip the fan to a tent pole and you can position the breeze just over the top of the canopy.
Humidifiers
I reside in a region with low humidity levels, which can be advantageous for most of the grow cycle since the plants generate ample humidity themselves. However, during the early stages of growth when the plants are small, I need to introduce additional humidity to create an optimal environment for seedlings and young plants. In such cases, we suggest utilizing ultrasonic humidifiers due to their unique method of generating humidity.
Ultrasonic humidifiers operate by atomizing water through ultrasonic vibrations, rather than relying on heat. This distinction is crucial because the absence of heat ensures that the humidifier doesn’t disrupt the natural balance of the grow room. By avoiding the introduction of excess heat, we prevent potential complications that might arise from an imbalanced temperature within the environment.
Using an ultrasonic humidifier allows for precise control over humidity levels, ensuring that the seedlings and young plants receive the appropriate conditions for healthy growth. It is an effective and efficient solution to address low humidity in the early stages of the grow, promoting optimal development and minimizing potential issues.
Large Ultrasonic Humidifier
If you live in a very dry climate, you should invest in a larger humidifier. The 6-liter size can run for 24 hours on high and put out a good stream of vapor. This one also features a top fill system, so you don’t have to remove the tank from your tent in order to refill it. It also has an app that let’s you control the humidifier from your phone. Pretty neat!
Small Ultrasonic Humidifier
If you only need a little bit of additional humidity, you can consider a smaller, 2-liter humidifier. These are all solid choices for a small ultrasonic humidifier.
Dehumidifier
In most cases, growers can effectively manage humidity levels by utilizing proper ventilation and maintaining the exhaust system. Dehumidifiers are typically necessary only in sealed grow rooms or environments with excessively high humidity. While dehumidifiers can be useful for controlling humidity in such situations, it’s important to be mindful of the heat they generate.
One drawback of dehumidifiers is that they produce heat as a byproduct of their operation. Simply exhausting the hot air from the dehumidifier can inadvertently remove the dry air along with it, thereby undermining the intended purpose of controlling humidity. As a result, we do not recommend solely relying on exhaust systems to mitigate the heat and humidity issues caused by dehumidifiers.
To strike a balance, it’s advisable to consider alternative solutions such as incorporating additional ventilation, adjusting airflow, or implementing cooling mechanisms to offset the heat generated by dehumidifiers. This approach ensures that while humidity is effectively regulated, the overall temperature and air quality within the grow room are also adequately maintained.
In hot and humid areas, you may need to seal the grow space (limit air exchange through exhaust) and use a double vented or Mini Split air conditioner along side a dehumidifier.
Midea 50-Pint Dehumidifier
This unit can remove 50 pints of moisture per day, which should be more than adequate for most grows. Avoid dehumidifiers that remove significantly less as they will not really help. A dehumidifier will need to be rated to remove at least 30 pints per day to be useful in a grow setting.
Air-Conditioner
Air conditioners are very useful when exhaust systems can no longer control heat. You can get AC units that are single or double vented. Single vented units are fine for most set-ups when you are not using a dehumidifier.
Single Vented Portable A/C
The BLACK+DECKER 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Unit is a very good choice for a single vent AC unit. We are researching the best options from the UK.
Double Vented Portable Air Conditioner
If you are using a dehumidifier, a single vented unit should be avoided because they will vent the dry air from your grow space. When AC is used in combination with dehumidifiers, you should use a double vented unit.The Whynter Dual Vent Air Conditioner is an excellent choice for a dual vent AC. We are researching the best options from the UK.
Oil Heater
If it is too cold in your grow space, you may need to add a heater. We do not recommend using fan heaters, or any heating system that can create a fire risk if something were to happen. Oil heaters are the best option for heating as they distribute their heat safely without getting overly hot on the surface.
Delonghi Oil Heater
I use and recommend this Delonghi Oil Heater.
Dual Systems Controller
Inkbird Itc-308 Digital Temperature Controller
With a dual system controller, you can conveniently connect and regulate two climate control devices simultaneously. This setup provides flexibility and efficiency in managing your indoor environment. Let’s take an example of Dr. Photon, who utilizes a dual system controller to connect his exhaust system and oil heater.
The controller operates by monitoring the temperature and activating the corresponding appliance based on the pre-set conditions. For instance, during cold periods, the controller activates the oil heater to maintain the desired temperature. Conversely, when the temperature rises above a certain threshold, the controller triggers the exhaust system to facilitate proper ventilation and cooling.
One of the key advantages of a dual system controller is the ability to set independent operating ranges for each appliance. This ensures that the two systems work harmoniously without conflicting with one another. By establishing specific temperature parameters for the oil heater and exhaust system, you can achieve optimal control and prevent them from operating simultaneously.
By utilizing a dual system controller, you can create a more efficient and customized climate control solution for your indoor grow space, allowing you to maintain the ideal temperature range while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption or conflicting operations between different appliances.
NEXT : How to Setup a Grow Room (Part 2 of 2)
COMING SOON – How to Build Your Own Grow Space
In this How to Guide we will cover everything you need to know to build a grow room in your home or garage. This guide will cover all aspects including:
- Calculating how many lights for you square footage
- Calculating AC requirements
- Calculating Heating requirements
- Determining how much square footage you will need to support a desired yield
- Calculating the dehumidification requirements
- Air circulation
- Complete Automation
Set-up Your Grow
Growing Cannabis
- Cannabis Seeds
- Fertilizers & Supplements
- Propagation Supplies
- Plant Training & Care
- Harvest & Processing
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About Our Product Recommendations
Here at 420 Grow Help, our primary goal is to assist growers in achieving the utmost success with their cannabis crops by providing accurate scientific information and sharing proven cultivation techniques. The products we recommend are the very ones we have personally chosen to purchase and use ourselves. We maintain a strict policy of not accepting sponsorships or advertising, and we only endorse products that meet our own high standards. For detailed product recommendations, please refer to our Product and Equipment Guide.
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Disclaimer:
The information presented on 420GrowHelp.com should not be regarded as financial, legal, or medical advice. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with and abide by the local laws and regulations pertaining to the cultivation, possession, and use of cannabis. Decisions regarding cannabis cultivation should be made in consultation with a lawyer or qualified legal advisor, while decisions regarding cannabis use should be made in consultation with a doctor or medical professional.
