Airpump for 10 gallons in my 30 gallon tank- it's complicated!

See I already have a topfin 3000 airpump and I want to put two more air stones in and the three way sucks and gives some air to my bubble wall and all the air to the air stone so it's better if I just use a second airpump but I only have $10 and a topfin 1000 airpump is right in the range, would it work in my 29 gallon tank?

 

it would be fine, your not using it as a primary filtration or anything. Go for it.

 

Oh ok! Then why are they labeled different sizes? Is it how powerful it Is?

 

yeah its based on output, and where your only looking to provide a few airstones the volume isn't really as big of a factor

 

And rated for depth.

 

Ooohh thanks I'm a little new with air pumps

 

And rated for depth.

True. Good point.

 

I can't find anywhere on my tetra whisper filters where they are rated for depth.

 

I can't find anywhere on my tetra whisper filters where they are rated for depth.

No, it is not stated on the pump. Just for example: If an air pump is for a 55 gal. tank, then the manufacturer is taking into account that a 55 gal. tank is 20 inches deep. If it is for a 10 gal. tank, then 12 inches deep. You will not get the same output and /or lifespan if you use a 10 gal. tank air pump in a 55 gal. tank. The pump will work harder, and therefore not as good or last as long. The water pressure is higher, and believe it or not, it makes a difference.

This is because usually an air stone or filter that is being run with an air pump is placed towards the bottom of the tank.

I have been through this myself when an air quits on me. I have put a Whisper 60 to run a 10 gal. tank, and it is almost too strong. I have also put a Hagen Marina 50, rated for up to a 15 gal. tank, to a 55 gal. tank, and get very little bubbles if any.