Im planning a NFT system and need help.

I am using prefab kit (NFT GroTank 205gti), would anyone have information on how long the pump should run in a NFT system? From what I can see it will be 24/7, but not sure if that is required while the plants are small.

Most run 1on, 5 off. I run 80sec on, 8min off. Roots need to breath.

Im going to run 24hr with cool oxygenated water until I can get a timer.

Not Good. At least get a 15 min timer at Walmart.

I had mine running 24/7. I thought NFT was a steady downward flow of water that just runs over the roots. The way I built mine was have a pond pump in the res, connect pvc pipping to the pump, run it up to the top end of the PVC tubes, through the holes in the end cap, go about 4 inches in and just end right there. The pump pushes the water to the top of the PVC and gravity takes over. The water will trickle down the tubes over the roots, and back down to the res and just keep recirculating. The roots get plenty of oxygen since the water doesn't fill the entire tube, there is usually a few inches of space that the roots hang without touching water. Get an air pump and air stone and put in the res to boost up your oxygen levels in the water. Highly oxygenated water makes it easier for the nutrients to become dissolved, and its easier for the plants to take up the nutrients, or something like that.

If you are running misters inside the tubes on your nft system then that's aeroponics. It's a very great method too. I've used that method a few times and love the results.