I've used the waterfarm 8 pack system for the past 3 years. I used to leave the airpump on for the light cycle, but found I would get algea problems, and root rot. The plants would look healthy but would not produce to their fullest. The best way I have found to use the system is to hand water once a day for the first week or so (once plant becomes adjusted and vigorous) then cut some black\white poly into 16x16 squares, slit the poly to fit around the stem and cover the bucket and growing media.(prevents algea and other contaminants). Then I use a timer and set it to 1\2 hour twice a day, during the light cycle for the next 2 or so weeks. Remember, the plants likes dryer conditions. However once the roots go into to bottom half of bucket, an added airstone in each bucket is a must to prevent rot root. One more dual diaphram pump like the one that came with your system will do. As the plant matures, I will start watering more, up to maybe 1/2 hour every 2-3 hours. This is what worked best for me, I found plants did poorly (but looked healthy) if contantly too soaked. Oh yeah, I used clay pellets aswell, don't worry, they do hold water for awile, roots do a good job of sucking them dry.