Problem with Aqua-Mist air stones & Tetra Whisper air pumps

I just got two long green Aqua Mist airstones. The air pumps for them are a Tetra Whisper 20, and a Tetra Whisper 40 for the other one.

The problem with both of them is only half the airstones have bubbles coming out of them. Probably not even half. The rest is like dead, no bubbles coming up.

Could this be an issue with BOTH air stones, both pumps or maybe the tubing? I'm using clear (I think silicone) tubing.

 

I hate this fact, but a lot of the time longer airstones (anything other than those little cyclinder/round ones) will not dispense bubbles their entire length, typically only sending bubbles up (or the most bubbles) nearest the end with the airstone. I doubt it is anything to do with the airpumps. I've purchased many of the longer airstones, airwands...etc. and they always seem to have issues when it comes to bubbles not coming out their entire length.

 

I think it's because the air will want to get out the easiest possible way and since the distribution of escapes is equal across the whole airstone, it will simply come out at the start since it's the closest outlet. If you want all the airstone to give out bubbles, you will have to get a more powerful airpump

 

If its a new air stone, though, it needs time to 'get going.' In a few days, the air will force new passages through the stone and look like its supposed to.

 

also, if the stone isn't level you will get a higher concentration of bubble out the higher end.

 

I'm a rookie, however my first experience with a length airstone has been dissappointing to say the least...picked up a 12'' airstone...it was broken off about 3" from the port. needless to say I'm taking it back tomorrow...thinking about picking up 2 discs.

 

Good morning,

Seems I read a while back that for the longer air stones, they should be soaked for 24 hours before using them. Try it with a new one and see. I can't remember where I saw this information.

I use the cylinder shaped ones myself. I have used the discs in the past and they worked well too.

Ken

 

I also have two long air stones, and both of mine require intakes on both ends of the stone. So for the two stones I have a total of 4 airlines in use. I am not sure what the brand on them was, but have a look and just make sure you aren't suppose to put the tubing on both ends.

 

I have a 12inch in my big tank and it took it about a week to get going and now that it has its great. Just took some time.

 

I've bought more of these tahn I can remember and they have never worked the way they are supposed too. I even bought a very strong pump. For me it didn't mateer if it was the first day or 30th day, they just don't work. And they will even get to the point nothing comes out.