Why do you need a compressor in an aquarium? Criteria for choosing an aerator

More than just a lovely exhibition of fish and plants, a healthy and lively aquarium is a meticulously maintained ecosystem. Making sure the water is well-oxygenated is essential to preserving this balance, and this is where a compressor—also referred to as an aerator—comes into play.

The main function of the compressor is to force air into the water, causing bubbles to form and raising the oxygen content. This is essential for the survival and health of your aquatic life because it maintains the water’s freshness and makes breathing easier for fish.

The size of your tank, the requirements of your fish, and the compressor’s noise level are just a few of the variables you should take into account when selecting the best compressor for your aquarium. You can choose the ideal aerator to keep your aquatic friends in a healthy environment by being aware of these factors.

Why do you need aeration in an aquarium?

The process of aeration involves shifting water layers so that the water becomes saturated with oxygen molecules. This occurs naturally in the natural world because of the wind, currents, and plants that move the water.

Plants are the only source of oxygen in an aquarium. However, they become consumers of this crucial substance themselves if they do not have enough light or carbon dioxide.

An oxygen shortage in an aquarium can be avoided by forcing the water to become saturated with oxygen using specialized equipment. Fish, plants, and other tank occupants all depend on oxygen.

For herbalists, aquariums containing a lot of plants require extra aeration. The nitrogen cycle within the tank needs to be operating correctly in order for algae to grow and develop. This is the primary requirement for biofiltration, which creates a biological balance in aquariums.

How aeration prevents the death of aquarium life:

• Dying plant particles, fish waste, food from the substrate – an excellent environment for the vital activity of bacteria. As a result, ammonium appears in the water, which is a poison for higher algae and fish. And they do not die immediately, but gradually, accumulating the toxin in the body.
• If there is enough oxygen, ammonium is destroyed by Nitrosomonas bacteria, oxidizing it to nitrites. Then Nitrobakter bacteria oxidize them to nitrates.
• Only aeration, carried out with a compressor, can ensure biobalance in closed aquariums.

Aquarists who are new to the industry frequently don’t realize how vital aeration is to the health and growth of their inhabitants. Although algae produce some oxygen, aquariums require more. Fish that are exposed to low oxygen levels can become ill or even die.

Aeration’s goals and objectives:

• the formation of circulating water flows that saturate the water with oxygen;
• destruction of bacterial film on the surface of water;
• prevention of sudden temperature changes (in combination with heaters);
• imitation of processes occurring in nature – for example, the creation of currents that are vital for certain types of fish;
• increases the flow of the soil;
• enhances the favorable development of soil bacteria that neutralize organic matter (waste products of aquarium inhabitants).

Operating principle

Aquarium compressors are made of a basic component. Basic physics principles form the basis of its working theory.

The operation of an aquarium compressor

• A special tube is placed in the tank, on the end of which a sprayer is put on.
• The compressor supplies air through the tube to the spray nozzle, which saturates the water with tiny bubbles.
• In addition to aeration, mixing occurs, ensuring a uniform water temperature.

An aerator frequently serves ornamental purposes in addition to its functional ones. When colored light is used to highlight water bubbles, the effect is truly striking.

It is not necessary to keep the aerator running constantly. Generally, night operation suffices. At this point, because they have used up all of their CO2, the algae stop making oxygen.

It is advised to run the aerator more frequently during the summer. During spawning, the device needs to be turned on as well. The operating time is not limited in any way. The aquarist determines when and how much to run the aerator, taking into account various environmental factors, fish species, number of plants, aquarium volume, and other considerations.

Types and kinds

Different types of compressors are available from manufacturers, with variations in power, size, performance, design features, and other aspects. On the market for aquarium accessories, piston and membrane compressors are the most widely used types.

Membrane

This kind of compressor uses technology that is based on a rubber membrane. It functions similarly to a nipple, allowing air to move only in one direction.

Membrane compressor benefits:

• economical power consumption;
• low noise level.

The majority of manufacturers of membrane compressors are reputable and experienced businesses. One drawback is its low power. Membrane devices are therefore appropriate for aquariums up to 200 liters in capacity. Compressors must be purchased in bulk for larger containers.

Piston

The primary drawback of piston compressors in the recent past was vibration and hum. The best manufacturers now produce devices that are nearly silent or make very little noise at all. These kinds of devices work by means of piston movement to pump air.

Piston-type aerators’ primary benefits are their strong power and capacity to supply air to a considerable altitude. These gadgets are robust and dependable because of their straightforward design. Options with pistons don’t need to be maintained.

Silent

These compressors are relatively new to the market, and their primary benefit is that they run entirely silently. This is particularly useful if you turn on the device after dark. The aPump model, whose concept is based on saturating water with oxygen by producing microwaves on its surface, is an example of a silent compressor.

Air

A water pump can be used to completely fill the aquarium with water. Air can be supplied and sprayed by this apparatus. Actually, this is just a standard water pump with a light branch attached to the discharge pipe. The other end of a small tube is brought up to the water’s surface and placed on the tee.

Battery-powered

Aerators, no matter what kind, can run on batteries in addition to a 220 V network. The second option is only utilized in emergency situations or when the power is turned off.

Models that run on batteries are more costly, consume less power, and produce a lot of noise. They can only run for up to six hours on a single set of batteries and have a high energy consumption. Purchasing a battery-operated device is pointless if the power grid is accessible.

Adjustable

The two main categories of compressors are those that are adjustable and those that are not. A mechanical regulator is located on the front or side panel of the former. The aquarist can adjust the device’s performance and the quantity of bubbles that form by rotating it.

The capacity to alter the degree of water oxygenation is a feature of adjustable models.

Three categories comprise adjustable compressors:

• Electronic. They limit the amplitude of membrane movement. Minus – heating of the electronic part.
• Mechanical. The oscillations made by the membranes are limited by paws or magnets.
• With overlapping of the outlet channel. This is the most common option, in which the valve located at the transition from the sprayer to the air duct is closed.

Unregulated

In contrast to regulated compressors, unregulated compressors are simpler in design. They lack any extra components that could influence the device’s power or the aeration process. Energy consumption rises as performance metrics stay unchanged.

The incapacity of unregulated compressors to lower noise levels is one of their characteristics.

Performance depending on the volume of the aquarium

The performance of the compressor indicates the volume and amount of air that it pumps in a given amount of time. The quantity and variety of fish and plants in the aquarium determine the best possible performance.

Compressor performance is typically between 0.5 and 0.8 liters per 1 liter of water. You can quickly determine the performance requirements for an aquarium of a specific volume by knowing this ratio.

An illustration of how to assess performance:

• for a 100-liter aquarium – 50-80 l/h;
• for a 300-liter tank — 150-240 l/h.

How long should it work?

The quantity of fish and other inhabitants in the aquarium dictates how long the compressor should run. If there aren’t many of them, the gadget is set to run for a specific amount of time that each aquarist chooses on their own, paying attention to the fish’s health and behavior.

The device can be turned off if the fish are calm and swimming in the middle and bottom layers of the water. The gadget should operate longer than normal if the fish start to swim to the surface, hungrily gasping for air.

However, it should be kept in mind that the vibration of the device can harm the aquarium’s inhabitants, so it cannot be left on all the time. Fish that require constant aeration are an exception.

The health of your fish and plants depends on the water in your aquarium being properly oxygenated, which is why a compressor is necessary. In order to create a balanced and healthy aquatic environment, selecting the appropriate aerator requires taking into account the size of your tank, the kind of fish you have, and the noise level of the device.

Selection criteria

The shop offers a wide variety of aerators for sale. It’s important to take into account these devices’ other features in addition to their cost. You can select a device based on certain criteria that makes it ideal for a particular use.

How should one select compressors?

• Installation type. There are models with internal and external mounting options. The latter can be installed under aquariums, so they do not spoil the aesthetics. They are more powerful and aesthetic.
  Internal type models are pumps in which the rotating element is located in the water – due to this, quieter operation is ensured.
• Performance. This parameter is determined by the volume of the aquarium. The optimal indicator is 0.8 liters per 1 liter of water. For herbalists, it is recommended to increase the productivity by 10%.
• Power. This parameter directly depends on the compressor performance. It is taken into account in order to save electricity consumed by the device. While it is running, the motor rotates and consumes electricity.
  The power consumption of the engine depends on the amount of water pumped per 1 hour. The stronger the flow, the greater the power of the electric motor.
• Passing capacity. The intensity of the flow of water necessary to meet the needs of plants and inhabitants of aquariums depends on this parameter. For example, for an hour of operation, the pump should pump 3-5 volumes of a 100-liter aquarium.
  circulation allows not only to clean water, but also tolerates oxygen.
• Production material. Compressors are usually made of plastic. In fresh water, metal axes are used, in salty – from ceramics.
• Size. Universal devices of high power and performance are installed in large aquariums. Small devices are put in small tanks. There are also very miniature compressors for miniature herbalists.
• Noiselessness. Ask the seller to include the device in the network to see how he works. At the same time, evaluate the noise level it makes when in contact with different surfaces.
  The noise level largely depends on the quality of the connections and design features. Tetra models are noisy compressors. They last a long time, but to reduce the noise level, you have to adjust the pressure regulator, install the device on a soft base.
  The quietest devices belong to Eheim.
• Cost and manufacturers. The cheapest devices are from Chinese and Russian manufacturers. They usually work noisily, but are reliable. Models from Hagen, Tetra, JBL are more expensive.
  The most expensive compressors are offered by Schego and Eheim. They have quiet devices and a long service life.

Aquarium aerator manufacturers

The market for aquarium accessories is dominated by a few companies whose goods are highly sought after. This is a dynamic list.

TOP-5 producers of compressors:

• Tetra. This is a German brand founded more than half a century ago. The company produces various aquarium devices, feed, accessories.
• Aquael. This Polish company has been operating in the aquarium accessories market for about 30 years. The quality of its products meets the best European standards and has the appropriate certification.
• Hydor. The Italian manufacturer has been operating since the 80s. of the last century and is known as a brand of exclusive goods. Produces reliable and safe products for home aquariums.
• Eheim. This is the oldest German company producing a wide range of aquarium accessories. It is known throughout the world for its high-quality products for aquariums.
• Schego. German company producing hydraulic engineering. All equipment is assembled and tested in German factories.

Five high-quality and functional

Experts have identified certain models as the best among the aquarium compressors available on the market.

What kind of compressors are these for aquariums?

• Jbl ProSilent A300 — this German device is one of the most economical among its peers. This is an external device with a capacity of 300 l/h. Power consumption — 3.9 W. Designed for aquariums with a volume of 100-400 l.
  Comes with 2-meter silicone hoses, valves and spherical sprayers. Low noise — up to 38.5 dB. Price — 2700-3100 rubles.
• Tetra AРS 300 — this model from a German brand is full of innovative technologies. It has noise-reducing chambers and dense supports. It is equipped with porous aerators. It is distinguished by high quality, but requires installation control — the device must be above the water level, otherwise it will get into the motor.
  There is no air supply tube and fine-pored aerator. The noise is small, but the device is not suitable for the bedroom. Place of manufacture – Poland or China. Price – 1400-1600 rubles.
• Eheim Air Pump 200 — this compressor from a German brand is designed for an aquarium from 250 to 300 liters. Two-channel device – allows you to aerate 2 separate aquariums at once. Adjustable flow rate.
  There are several installation options. There are suction cups for vertical mounting. Bubble size can be adjusted using a sprayer. Made in China. Price – 2500 rubles.
• Hydor Ario 4 — the best underwater aerator. This internal compressor is mounted on the bottom and disguised as the bottom relief. Height from above – from 50 cm. Works silently. Designed for aquariums up to 300 l. Productivity – from 200 l/h.
  There is an air regulator. Comes with a plastic hose and foam filters. Made in Italy. Price – 1200-1500 rubles.
• Schego Optimal — a high-performance device of German manufacture, compact, with a power of 5 W. Performance – 250 l/h. Designed for aquariums with a capacity of 200-500 l. There is one air duct and a powerful membrane – you can connect several aquariums.
  This is the quietest model in the Schego line. There is a replaceable air filter, but there is no power regulator and check valve. Price: 1800-2300 rubles.

High-quality and budget

The affordability of the aerators on this list is their primary benefit. They are appropriate for those who are just beginning to learn about the aquarium industry.

The top models for budgets are:

• JeboSonic301 — a mobile aerator that is useful when transporting fish. Single-channel device, battery-powered. Designed for a 50-liter aquarium. Productivity — 60 l/h. Very compact, weighs only 300 g and can fit in your pocket. Country of origin: China. Price — 300-470 rubles.
• AquaelOxyboost300Plus – has an interesting appearance and can carry a decorative function. The device is silent, power – 2.5 W. Designed for an aquarium of 200-300 l.
  Economically consumes electricity and has two air regulators. But there is no check valve, vertical suspension is not provided. Country of origin: Poland. Price – 1000-1200 rubles.
• AleasAP-9803 – this device demonstrates good quality at a low cost. Its productivity is 210 l/h. There is an air regulator. Power – 4 W. In 1 minute, the device pumps 4.2 liters of air. Can work in two directions – horizontal and vertical.
  The device has multi-level noise insulation, and its body is made of impact-resistant plastic. Country of origin: China. Price – 380-750 rubles.

Maintenance aerator

The device needs to be properly maintained if it is to function as intended for an extended period of time. Although aerators typically have a few-year warranty, they can last much longer with proper maintenance.

How to perform maintenance on compressor mechanisms:

• During the operation of the device, membranes tend to fail – they wear out, break, get dirty. It is important to change the rubber membrane and air filter in time.
• The tubes can occasionally become clogged with suspended matter, which prevents oxygen from passing through them. If the flow is weak, and the number of bubbles has decreased, or they have disappeared altogether, then it is time to clean.
• Sometimes, crustaceans in the aquarium damage the tubes with their claws, so you need to have spare hoses to replace them in time.
• If the aerator breaks down or turns off due to a power outage, it is important to have a mobile analogue that runs on batteries on hand.

Why You Need a Compressor	Criteria for Choosing an Aerator
1. Provides oxygen to fish and plants.	1. Airflow Rate: Ensure it provides enough air for your tank size.
2. Helps maintain water circulation.	2. Noise Level: Choose one that operates quietly to avoid disturbances.
3. Reduces the build-up of harmful gases.	3. Energy Efficiency: Opt for one that doesn’t use too much power.
4. Promotes a healthier environment for aquatic life.	4. Durability: Look for a model made of quality materials for longevity.
5. Assists in effective filtration.	5. Ease of Maintenance: Choose an aerator that’s easy to clean and maintain.

An aquarium’s ability to maintain a healthy environment depends heavily on its compressor. It guarantees that fish and plants flourish by raising the oxygen levels, avoiding problems like oxygen deficiency that could endanger your aquatic life.

Take your fish’s requirements and the size of your aquarium into account when selecting an aerator. An aquarium owner must have a well-sized compressor because it will effectively oxygenate the water without creating extra noise or turbulence.

All things considered, maintaining a balanced aquarium ecosystem and the health of your aquatic inhabitants depends on investing in a high-quality compressor. Making the proper choice now can have a significant impact on the long-term viability of your aquarium.

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