Fish Fry

how long do i have to replace my air pump it broke during maintenance.

Luniyn

If you have a hang on back filter, then technically it should give the water enough aeration. In a lot of tanks the bubbles are just for show. You should have plenty of time to replace the air pump at your convenience. If you see your fish taking trips to the top of the tank and gulping for air then that could mean you don't have enough aeration in the tank. In that case take some of the water our of the tank (i.e. low the level down by a 1/2") so that the outflow of the filter splashes more into the water. This will help create more aeration until you can get a replacement air pump, but it shouldn't be that big of a problem.

Fish Fry

thanks for the advice. I did get a new air pump already. I just feel better having one.

COBettaCouple

cool.. we kind of like having them running too, even in betta tanks.

Xenomorph

I always thought airstones were required to break the surface tension for gas exchange, are you saying that my having the canister filter arcing through the air to splash into the water is sufficient? I'd really love to dispense with the air pump altogether!

COBettaCouple

we only have HOB filters, but like having airstones in each tank for the surface agitation and the effects on the water.

Trpimp147

i have a power head that has a valve that allows you to adjust the amount of air you want to put in the water. get 2 things for one small price

Luniyn

HOB power filters typically provide more oxygen to the water because of their exposed nature. A canister can provide good aeration when it's clean, however, as it starts to collect particles the flow reduces and it losses efficiency when it come to it's aeration ability. So it's best to have an airstone with a canister.

Xenomorph

Roger that - don't want the poor blighter suffocating!