I love the idea of hydroponics, but as you pointed out.. if that motor stops it quickly becomes a problem. At least with dirt the water is retained and lasts awhile..
I may try out hydroponics one day.. maybe even aquaponics, but I think I will start simple.
This is a good method...If everything goes well ....
The crop does not get damaged for 2-3 days even if the motor stops...but in my case My motor has not been repaired yet....
Most of the time the impeller burns up in the pump.. It will sound like its running but no water is coming through.
You can replace those parts, usually when you buy a new pump they come with an extra impeller.