Do you mean the initial set up, or the ongoing maintenance? Edit: I don't have an exact answer for you, but assuming you can get the system set up for less tha

Do you mean the initial set up, or the ongoing maintenance? Edit: I don't have an exact answer for you, but assuming you can get the system set up for less than $350 (either yourself, or by hiring an installer), that statement is true. Also, the maintenance time is similar to what you would spend going to the store to buy the plants/fish.