AutoPot 1-Pot AV5 System (No Header Tank) - Gravity-Fed Growing, No Pumps or Timers
Best for: Growers who already have a header tank or gravity-fed water source and want to add AutoPot's 1Pot module with the latest AQUAvalve5 hardware.
Our thoughts
The beauty of the 1Pot system is that once it's set up, it just runs - no timer to program, no pump to fail, just gravity and a valve doing the work. This version leaves the header tank out, which is exactly right if you've already got one from a previous system or you're building your own setup from separate parts. Buy what you actually need instead of paying for a tank you won't use.
The AutoPot 1-Pot AV5 System is a single-module gravity-fed watering system built around AutoPot's AQUAvalve5, the latest generation of their patented watering valve. The AQUAvalve5 automatically opens to let nutrient solution flood into the pot's tray, then shuts off once the correct level is reached, so the plant gets a wet-then-dry cycle without any pump, timer or electricity involved. This version comes with a 15 litre pot and tray, 9mm pipework and fittings sized for the AQUAvalve5's larger-bore opening, but does not include a header tank - you'll need your own tank or an existing gravity-fed supply to connect it to.
The AQUAvalve5 is a revision of AutoPot's earlier valve designs, with a larger opening than previous versions to reduce the chance of blockages. Because the system relies purely on gravity and the valve's mechanism, it can be left unattended for extended periods without the risk of a failed pump or timer leaving plants dry.
How it compares
The 1Pot AV5 System without a header tank is aimed at growers who don't need AutoPot's bundled tank.
- AutoPot's full 1Pot System (sold with a header tank included) suits growers starting from scratch, while this version suits anyone reusing an existing tank or building a custom multi-module setup.
- Pump-and-timer systems such as those from Nutriculture or general flood-and-drain kits need mains power and a working timer to run correctly; the AV5's valve-based approach removes that point of failure.
- Compared to AutoPot's own older AV1-generation modules, the AQUAvalve5's larger 9mm bore is less prone to blockages from root matter or debris.
You're paying for AutoPot's proven gravity-fed reliability, just without the tank you don't need if you've already got one.
Usage guidance
Getting the tank height and connections right is the main thing to get right on setup.
Header tank placement
Position your own header tank above the level of the 1Pot module so gravity can feed the system - the AQUAvalve5 relies on head pressure from an elevated tank to work correctly.
Connecting pipework
Use the supplied 9mm pipe and fittings to connect your tank outlet to the AQUAvalve5 inlet, checking all push-fit connections are seated fully before filling.
Expanding the system
Add further 1Pot modules using AutoPot's Extension Kits to grow the system beyond a single pot, all feeding from the same header tank.
Technical specifications
- Pot capacity: 15 litres
- Valve: AQUAvalve5
- Pipework: 9mm (larger bore than earlier AutoPot generations)
- Header tank: not included
- Power required: none, gravity-fed
- Watering method: automatic wet/dry cycle via valve
Who this is for
- Growers who already own a header tank from a previous AutoPot setup
- Anyone building a custom multi-tank or multi-module AutoPot system
- Growers who want gravity-fed reliability without pumps or timers
- Budget growers who don't want to pay for a tank they don't need
Best suited to growers expanding or customising an AutoPot setup rather than starting completely from scratch.
Our take
A sensibly unbundled version of AutoPot's core system for anyone who's already sorted their water source - you get the current AQUAvalve5 hardware without paying for a tank sitting in the box unused.
Gets the job done properly - reliable performance at a sensible price.
