Air pump lifespans?

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jcarson

jcarson

Plecostomus
MFK Member
Jun 30, 2018
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Hey MFK

I have gone through quite a few air pumps in the last 2 years.
Quite a few different brands ranging from marina to whisper, and I have noticed that for the most part they seem to lose their ability to pump air as they did when they were new.

My question is.... are these cheaper diaphragm air pumps just short lived? Are there air pumps out there that last years?
 
Piston pumps are longer lived then diaphragm types. But ive got a couple diaphragm ones from a local grow shop that have been running for 2 to 3 years now. Activeaqua is the name brand. Ive also got a fluval thats been running for about the same time.
 
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How big of a air pump are you looking for?

Have you tried Ehiem pumps. I have two of the 400s that have been running for two years and are just as strong as day one and just as quiet.

Amazon.com : Eheim Air Pump 400 : Pet Supplies

Amazon.com : Eheim Air Pump 400 : Pet Supplies
www.amazon.com
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I have not tried Ehiem pumps but I know I need at least enough air flow to power 4 40g breeders and 3 20g longs.
I have already purchased a piston pump and look forward to putting it to the test.

I dont think I will buy another diaphragm pump unless to power egg tumblers.
 
I had a piston pump years ago on a breeder rack running a bunch of 20h tanks with mbuna fry. I made a manifold to run the 10 tanks and still had enough air flow to feed two air discs in the 125 across the room. Dont remember the brand though may have been viaqua. It worked for years, it was loud though.
 
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jcarson said:
Hey MFK

I have gone through quite a few air pumps in the last 2 years.
Quite a few different brands ranging from marina to whisper, and I have noticed that for the most part they seem to lose their ability to pump air as they did when they were new.

My question is.... are these cheaper diaphragm air pumps just short lived? Are there air pumps out there that last years?
Click to expand...

Do they pump the same amount after you replace the reed valve and diaphragm? They're wear items, they wear out over a year or two. The valve doesn't seal as well, the rubber breaks down. That's why they sell replacements.
 
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TwoHedWlf said:
Do they pump the same amount after you replace the reed valve and diaphragm? They're wear items, they wear out over a year or two. The valve doesn't seal as well, the rubber breaks down. That's why they sell replacements.
Click to expand...


Never have, I didn't know there were serviceable parts inside.
Gonna need to look into this. Thank you.
 
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