Tips on Choosing an Air Pump For Your Aquarium
Before we go out and get a new or replace our existing air pump, we should understand the proper use of it and the safety measures. The last thing you want is spending unnecessary money getting an air pump that neither functions properly nor fit your aquarium requirement.
What Does an Air Pump Do?
Aquarium air pumps can be used in two main ways.
- To power small internal filters and undergravel filter.
- For aeration only, using airstones.
When used to run undergravel filters, the air pump moves air under pressure through the water, thereby drawing water through the uplift tubes. An airstone should be attached to increase bubble output, and in turn, water movement.
An air pump aerates the aquarium by producing a stream of bubbles that agitates the water. Bubbles rising to the surface create ripples which increase the water surface area and allow oxygenation (a process whereby oxygen is introduced from the air into the water) to take place.
What Are the Safely Issues You Should Be Concerned About?
An air pumps are usually kept running round the clock, they are likely to get overheated and may catch fire.
Most of the fire incidents that have been reported involved overhead pumps. Such pumps are mounted above the water level, within the hood of the aquarium or atop of the rim of the tank. As water does not pass over them, the pumps are not cooled down and are more likely to overheat if they get jammed.
Pumps that are not built with water-resistant components also pose a danger when water that is sprayed onto the pumps or seeps into the motor leads to short circuits.
Tips on Selecting and Using Filter Pumps
- Do not buy a pump just because it is cheap! Some popular makes, usually imported from China and Taiwan, sell for as little as $5. Others can cost between $15 and $60.
- Be discerning – buy only pumps that have been tested and certified safe by an accredited certification body. These would have been put through a series of stringent checks to see if the material and parts are flammable or if there is any electrical leakage.
- Poor-quality makes of overhead air pumps that do not meet international safely requirements are potential fire hazards. They may give off a burning smell and are burning hot to the touch when left on for a long period of time. Good-quality ones might come with casings that are insulated with waterproof or fireproof materials, and should not give out excess heat.
- Follow usage instructions properly.
- Check your air pump regularly to ensure that it is working properly. Replace pumps once they become too noisy.
- Do not place flammable material near your aquarium.
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