The first aquarium product that every aquarist would buy is the air pump. This is the most used aquarium product across the world.

How to install an aquarium air pump?

Most aquarists will say that is it not really necessary to have an air pump. But having an air pump will help increase the surface area and will also improve circulation which is good for your fishes. This article will take you through a step by step process on how to install an air pump the right way.

Required supplies

  • Air pump
  • Hose
  • Air stone

Required tools

  • Cutter
  • Check valve
  • Cable tie

Total cost: USD 30

Duration

Total time: 30 minutes

  • Step 1 – Choose the filter

    Select an air pump depending on the size of your tank, the number of fishes and decorations you have inside them. It is advised to select a much larger one than you think you might need at that moment so that it serves the purpose when you expand your tank in future.

  • Step 2 – Placement of air pump

    Find a proper location for your air pump in the tank. For this you will have to take into account the size, the number of fishes, and the decorations you have in the tank.

  • Step 3 – Reading the Brochure

    Make sure you read the manual that comes along with the packaging to find out information on how to install the air pump as each air pump is different.

  • Step 4 – Fixing the reverse valve

    Take a long vinyl hose and fix it with a check valve.

  • Step 5 – Connecting the air stone

    To one end of the vinyl hose attach an air stone or any other décor. Make sure you attach it to the end that goes inside the tank. And also prep the air tone/ décor before attaching it.

  • Step 6 – Fix the T-Valve

    Attach the other end to the outlet opening of the air pump. Make use of a T valve or Y valve if needed.

  • Step 7 – Placing the Connected Decor

    Drop the end of the hose attached to the air pump or any other décor inside the tank.

  • Step 8 – Switch on the Air pump

    Attach the air pump to the tank and plug it in.

Result

Switch on the air pump and check if it functions correctly.Depending on the aquarium size and the fish that you are holding you can increase or decrease the air flow in the aquarium.

We hope this how-to guide is useful for fellow hobbyists and are happy to hear from you on improvising this article. Do provide your recommendations in the below comment box