how are air-pumps sized to tanks, or applications? where's the sticky mr. air pump genius? where have all the fish-keeping philosophers gone?
How to size an air pump?
- Thread starter yourockit
- Start date
They usually say the # of airstones in x sized tank you can keep. I am familiar with the Elite brand pumps only though so I couldn't tell you about the other varieties.
Alistriwen;1229147; said:
hmm, well, I'm going to figure this thing out, somehow. thanks. my responses to your posts always get deleted.
Most brands have guides on the sides of boxes. I usually go bigger than I think I need cuz it's always easier to dampen the airflow than add extra pumps if needed. I like the good old fashioned elites, mostly because they last and don't cost an arm and a leg.
So to answer your question... or not... I figured it all out by trial and error, and couldn't tell you any definite numbers. If you're just running a stone for some bubble action, you can go with small pumps. If you're running a long hose through some sponges, you'll need a bigger pump. Just buy one and see how you like it, if it doesn't work just trade it out at the store. I've accumulated all types over the years, so I just go to my bucket-o-pumps and grab one that I think'll work (usually just for holding buckets/tanks, I don't use them in show tanks).
So to answer your question... or not... I figured it all out by trial and error, and couldn't tell you any definite numbers. If you're just running a stone for some bubble action, you can go with small pumps. If you're running a long hose through some sponges, you'll need a bigger pump. Just buy one and see how you like it, if it doesn't work just trade it out at the store. I've accumulated all types over the years, so I just go to my bucket-o-pumps and grab one that I think'll work (usually just for holding buckets/tanks, I don't use them in show tanks).
I appreciate the input I have received. Out of all the fishkeepers here does anyone really know the science on these things?
I want to have an ideal amount of bubbles going through my 240gal tank. i want to buy a nice piece of equipment which can also be used on larger or multiple tanks. The purpose of bubbles is aeration. Bubbles aerate by helping in the breakdown of fish waste. Bubbles aerate by breaking surface tension .rallysman;1229391; said:
What do you think I should get and why?
You can go with standard pumps for just the 240, but if you're going into multiple tanks look into linear air pumps and blowers (also called regenerative blowers). You know, you don't have too aerate for increased oxygenation, you can achieve this by causing turbulence at the surface with powerheads and/or filters. Also, a wet/dry is great for adding O2. If you want bubbles, go for it... google the types I mentioned above and you might get a better idea of what you need. Just keep the noise factor in mind. Some are louder than others, and are more for an industrial/commercial use-not something you want in your living room.