There are a lot of accessories that your aquarium requires. Aside from the filtration system, you also need to install the best aquarium air pump to it. In this way, you can guarantee that your marine ecosystem has enough oxygen circulation.
Some people think that this device is just an optional tool. Well, we have to agree on it at some point.
However, having an air pump makes your aquarium more conducive. If you are maintaining commercial fish tanks, then this machine is highly necessary.
You can see a lot of air pump on the market today. But of course, we all know that only a few of them can make you happy.
The rest would leave you disappointed because of their noisy and shabby performance. Because of this reason, we listed some of the top-rated options you can have with an air pump. Read on!
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Best Aquarium Air Pump
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10 of the Best Aquarium Air Pump
1. EcoPlus Commercial Air Pump
A favorite line of air pumps is the EcoPlus. Specifically, they offer several models of pumps, which can cater household to commercial applications. Their machines are so excellent that we can see them on several hydroponic farms and fish systems.
One of the best features of their pumps is its air manifold. Specifically, the latter can contain 4 to 16 outlets. Of course, you have to choose a model that would satisfy your needs.
Pros:
- High-quality pistons and cylinders
- Overall construction is durable and can last for more than a decade
- Available in multiple models
- Energy efficient (Operates at only 18 watts)
- Does not heat up
Cons:
- You cannot adjust its water pressure
- Some noise problems
2. Active Aqua Air Pump
One thing that you will love about the Active Aqua Air Pump is its ultra silent operation. In fact, you wouldn’t be able to notice it sound unless you will stick your ears near the aquarium.
This device is using several layers of muffler for sound dampening. Moreover, it comes with a unique rubber to maintain the steady flow of air. Also, this air pump allows you to adjust its pressure.
Pros:
- Power consumption is low
- Silent operation
- Air flow is steady and adjustable
- â400 gallons per hour rating
- Comes with eight outlets
Cons:
- It seems that the supply of air between channels are not balanced
- It is quite bulky (not ideal for small fish tanks)
3. Active Aqua Commercial Air Pump
If you are looking for a commercial-grade air pump, then you should use this product from the Active Aqua.
Just like their first unit here, this one still comes with eight outlets. You could also opt for the one that has twelve stores if your setup has high demands.
The construction of the Active Aqua Commercial Air Pump is pretty solid. Its magnetic compressor is housed in a sturdy aluminum case.
On the other hand, the piston and cylinder of this machine are resistant to wearing out. Therefore, you can expect that it can provide excellent performance.
Pros:
- 1100 gallons per hour rating
- Energy efficient
âCan support water farms
- Made from durable and high-quality materials
- You can adjust its air pressure
Cons:
- Overkill for small aquariums
- Susceptible to heating
4. Tetra Whisper Air Pump (Non-UL)
We all know that keeping the integrity of our fish tank can become a difficult task. But if you have the Tetra Whisper Air Pump, things would be a lot easy for you.
Primarily, this product is a dome-shaped device that improves it sound cancellation features. As a result, you can expect that it can operate quietly and smoothly. Moreover, it has a unique chambered design that lessens its vibrations.
Pros:
- Can operate without any turbulence
- Provides steady flow of air
- Works perfectly 100-gallon fish tanks
- Affordable
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Sound dampening feature lessens over time
- Too powerful for small tanks
5. Uniclife Aquarium Air Pump
Uniclife Aquarium is an air pump that comes with adjustable flow rate feature. It can work in multiple applications, regardless if your setup is freshwater or saltwater.
Although it is true that it only comes with two outlets, it is still notable that it can work even to 100-gallon water tanks. Moreover, you can guarantee that it has a quiet operation (only 25 decibels).
Pros:
- Complete package (accessories included)
- Quiet operation
- Compact but durable construction
- Can work on freshwater and saltwater aquariums
- Low power consumption (only 4 watts)
Cons:
- It is not as powerful as other models we listed here
- The tubing is quite short
6. TOM Aquarium Aqua Lifter Pump
It is such an impossible thing to miss the TOM Aquarium Aqua Lifter Pump on this list. After all, this one has impressive features to show off! Specifically, this machine can pump water up to two feet high.
Therefore, it is a great option if you are running gravity-fed siphons. You can also use it on a reptile terrarium as a form of a dripping system.
Pros:
- Compatible with airline tubing
- Can operate quietly
- Durable and rigid body
- Can work on multiple applications
- Moderate flow rate (3.5 gallons of water per hour)
Cons:
- Flow rate is not adjustable
- It is not a suitable choice if you want a pump with better flow rate
7. Fluval Q1 Air Pump
Fluval is an excellent brand for aquarium accessories and filters. But that’s not the reason why the Fluval Q1 Air Pump is part of this list. Instead, it is due to the raw performance of this machine.
This particular air pump can work on setups that are from 60 – 160 gallons. It also boasts its quiet operation and adjustable flow rate. Moreover, it is undeniable that this one is powerful!
Pros:
- Works for various aquarium sizes
- Can operate quietly
- Flow rate is adjustable
- âGuaranteed reliable performance
- Air flow is consistent, thanks to its advanced diaphragm design
Cons:
- It vibrates
- It has a big body
8. Aqua-Supreme 59942
When it comes to functionality and usability, the Aqua-Supreme 59942 is second to none. It is a device that will not increase your power consumption, thanks to its energy-saving motor.
It has a simple interface as well, hence using it will not give you a headache. Moreover, this air pump is compatible with most standard airline tubings. Therefore, you can assure its flexibility on your aquarium.
Pros:
- You can control its flow rate and pressure
- Can run quietly
- Low power consumption
- Comes with eight outlets
- âCompact design
Cons:
- It is not waterproof
- Susceptible cranking sounds
9. Pet Magasin Aquarium Air Pump
The Pet Magasin Aquarium Air Pump is not the most popular choice here. But we can assure you that this one will give you a long-lasting performance. This dual outlet air pump can work efficiently in any tank sizes.
Moreover, most of its parts are durable. We also love its tuning control to regulate its pumping. Specifically, you can adjust it by fine increments. Therefore, you can guarantee that you have the total control this device.
Pros:
- It is aquarium-friendly
- Energy efficient
- Durable and long-lasting design
- Comes with a two-year warranty
- Works with most aquarium sizes
Cons:
- Tends to produce noise when operating
- It doesn’t come with an “on-off” switch
10. Mylivell Quietest Aquarium Air Pump
This aquarium pump from Mylivell boasts its quietness and compact design. Of course, we tested it to verify its claim. The results? This air pump impressed us.
Aside from its ergonomic performance, this device also has a space-saving mechanism. Specifically, the suction cup of this pump allows it to be placed on the back panel of the aquarium. Moreover, it has a smooth operation and setup as well!
Pros:
- Sufficient flow rate
- Complete with accessories
- No noticeable noise when operating
- Easy to install
- Practical and ergonomic design
Cons:
- It is not waterproof
- Requires constant check up (especially on tube-clogging)
Aquarium Air Pump Buying Guide
Before we go further in this article, we have to specify first what an aquarium air pump is. Specifically, this device functions as a circulator of your underwater air.
Specifically, it uses a rubber diaphragm powered by an electromagnet to pump the air. Because of the pumping action, the device tends to vibrate.
Of course, the noise is not a good thing, especially if your aquarium is inside your living quarters. It would disturb you! Fortunately, most of the latest models already came up with a sound-dampening mechanism to prevent these nuisances.
Important Considerations
Size of Your Aquarium
It would be beneficial if you know the size of your tank before buying an air pump. If you have a large reservoir, then you need a powerful pump as well.
You cannot expect that a compact model can support 150-gallon aquariums or commercial tanks.
Specifically, the size determines the power of the air pump. Therefore, if you buy a reliable air pump for your gravel aquarium, then you going to have a bad time. The pump will likely blow the gravel, which can eventually disrupt your ecosystem.
Aquarium Accessory
When buying a pump, make sure that your ornaments and decorations are away from it. Otherwise, the machine can scramble them out of place, especially if the latter has enough power to do so.
This should not become a problem if you have a large water tank since you can have a lot of space to utilize.
Resistance of the Objects
Air cannot flow freely if it cannot pass through the objects inside your aquarium. Therefore, you will need a power air pump if your aquarium has a lot of embellishments (e.g. air stone).
These are some of the fundamental aspects of an aquarium air pump. By learning them, you will eventually get the right device for your setup. Meanwhile, we will present to you the best options you have for this aquarium accessory.
Final Verdict
Although it is true that an aquarium air pump is not a necessary accessory, it can still give a lot of benefits.
Specifically, it can maximize the circulation of air and water in your fish tank. Moreover, it bolsters the intake and uptake of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Of course, these are essential components for your fish’ survival.
Among the products we listed, we deem that the EcoPlus Commercial Air Pump is the best aquarium air pump. Yes, we can say that there are other more powerful models on this list.
However, the EcoPlus Commercial Air Pump offers the best user experience. It is not hard to use and is ideal for home applications. Moreover, it has a solid performance as well.
Did you learn from this article? Share us your thoughts about these aquarium pumps in the comment section below!
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