Sponge Filter Issue

[FJB]

Air pumps loose 'humpf' (strength) over time, as diaphragms weaken, fail, etc. So the rating does not matter over time. Sometimes, just fiddling with the diaphragm, such as making sure it is correctly seated (no leaks) may help. Sometimes a small amount of water in the airline becomes a resistance to air flow. Until you can repair/replace it, you may be able to get it to work better by making the airline tubing the shortest possible, no bends, no kinks, and also by locating the air pump above the aquarium (as opposed to below, thus reducing the resistance to air flow). That may solve the issue temporarily, but repairs or a new pump may be needed in the longer term. Good luck.

 

[deeda]

If you haven't already checked, make sure the ATI sponge filter bullet section where the air line connects doesn't have any crud buildup inside and any air line below the bullet isn't clogged.

 

[lp85253]

I was pondering this, and can you feel the air coming through the tube? If yes, then DEFINETLY something with the air pump. Tho I am not sure how they break. What happened to my filter is that it got clogged with sand, so could an air pump get water inside it? How long have you had it?

yes , you should know air is coming through the hose.. it's apparent..

 

[lp85253]

all good advice above...

 

[fishdance]

As air is getting down to a shallow depth, it will be flapper valves not the diaphram. These are one way valves which normally hold against the back pressure the deeper water creates. You might as well replace the diaphram when replacing the flapper valves since you have to remove the diaphram to change the valves. They are just 2 flaps of silicon per diapram that should spring back to seal but they become worn.