30 Gallon Tank Question about an Air Pump

I was given an air pump (I think) it's just a motor with a tube that blows bubbles. Is it needed in my tank? The motor is a bit loud. Also wanted to know if it would release more oxygen for my fish? Any pros/cons?

 

Air pumps are good for oxygenating warm water, running sponge filters or for the looks of bubbles

If you have a filter breaking enough surface tension, they are not always needed.

 

its a good thing to have but as already said not usually needed all the time. I run sponge filters on all my tanks along with my main filter but don't have to.

 

Now I have some Java Ferns I'm putting in it tomorrow which should help with the oxygen and leave the air pump unnecessary right? The pump is a bit too loud :S

 

you might just not have a good pump mine are quiet. plants help a little you would need a good amount of plants for them to produce a good amount of oxygen. but as stated you don't have to run it.

 

I think it all depends on what temperature you keep your aquarium, the amount of fish you have, the amount of surface agitation from your filter.

In one of my tanks, I put a wash cloth underneath the air pump to minimize the noise of the vibration.

 

I wouks think a new air pump would be less loud.

Try putting the old one on an old rag and see if that helpals.

Also what temp do you keep your tank and how many fish. As said above temp really determines it

 

Fusion and Whisper make some quite air pumps.

 

Fusion and Whisper make some quite air pumps.

My whispers are very quiet

 

I only have the one fish right now and the temp is at 77 F

 

Though not necessary it's always a good idea to have one, you can make them silent by placing a piece of cloth or towel underneath. That will absorb the vibrations and effectively silencing everything.

 

Thanks guys, I guess my pump must be a beast because the cloth didn't do anything lol.

 

Well as long ad you have a HOB filter that's agiatates the surface enough you should be fine. But you can get a cheap air pump for around 20 bucks.

 

Another solution if you don't want to buy an air pump down the line when you get more fish is that you can decrease the water level of your tank causing more surface agitation with your HOB.

 

Thanks everyone for all the great advice!