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Air pumps used to be an essential item for aquariums. Although they are used less often these days, a good air pump is still a great aquarium accessory to have. Everything from bubble curtains and moving decorations to sponge filters and UGFs requires an air pump to work properly.
Here, the best air pumps on the market for freshwater aquariums.
Tetra Whisper
The Tetra Whisper is possibly the quietest air pump on the market. The pump employs several features to reduce noise, including a dome shape that flattens sound waves, a suspended motor, rubber feet to diffuse sound, and internal sound-baffling compartments.
It is available in five sizes: 10, 20, 40, 60, and 100 which accommodates tanks up to 100 gallons. The 10- through 40-gallon sizes have one outlet, while the 60- and 100-gallon models have two outlets. For tanks larger than 100 gallons, deep water, or multiple device applications, consider moving to the Whisper AP series.
Tetra Whisper AP 150
Tetra replaced the former Tetratec Deep Water Air Pump product line with the Whisper AP series. Their design makes them useful for deep tanks, applications with long air stones, or setups with multiple airstones. Both models in the AP series are rated to pump air to eight feet deep. The AP 150 is intended for tanks up to 150 gallons and has a single outlet, while the AP 300 is for tanks up to 300 gallons and has two outlets.
Hagen Marina 200
Hagen Marina offers a reliable product that is quiet and comes in four sizes: 50, 75, 100, and 200. The 50-, 75-, and 100-gallon models have a single outlet, while the 200-gallon model has two outlets. For a bit higher-end model, look at the Hagen Fluval Q series.
Hydrofarm Active Aqua
Hydrofarm produces an inexpensive line of powerful air pumps that all feature adjustable flow rates. They also include models with multiple ports ranging up to as many as eight outlets. They are available in four models as follows:
- 50 GPH: one outlet
- 125 GPH: two outlets
- 240 GPH: four outlets
- 400 GPH: eight outlets
EcoPlus
EcoPlus offers a well-made product line that is quite durable. Made from higher-end materials, the manufacturing cost is reflected in a higher sales price. All models have an adjustable flow rate. They also offer a heavier duty line that is geared for hydroponics and commercial aquarium setups. That line is also suitable for pond applications. The full EcoPlus product line is as follows:
- EcoPlus AIR-1 Plus Single Outlet Air Pump
- EcoPlus AIR-2 Dual Outlet Air Pump
- EcoPlus AIR-4 Four Outlet Air Pump
- EcoPlus AIR-8 Eight Outlet Air Pump
- EcoPlus Commercial 1 Hydroponic/Aquarium Air Pump
- EcoPlus Commercial 3 Hydroponic/Aquarium Air Pump
- EcoPlus Commercial Air 5–80 Watts Single Outlet
- EcoPlus Commercial 7 Hydroponic/Aquarium Air Pump
Danner Aqua-Supreme
Amazon
Danner Aqua-Supreme produces four inexpensively priced air pump models that meet most aquarium and pond needs. The multiple outlet models have adjustable flow rates. Models available are as follows:
- AP-2: one outlet
- AP-3: one outlet
- AP-4: two outlets
- AP-8: four outlets
If you're looking for a quiet air pump that will accommodate any size tank, then look no further than the Tetra Whisper (view at Amazon). If you're searching for a more heavy-duty option or have a hydroponic or commercial tank, try the EcoPlus (view on Amazon).
What to Look for in an Aquarium Air Pump
Noise
Many air pumps can be rather loud, which can be bothersome when you want some peace and quiet. If you're worried about noise, try finding a model that has features in place to reduce its noise level. Also, consider your maintenance routine. Sometimes when airstones and other accessories at the end of an air pump are dirty and clogged with debris, the air pump will run harder and create more noise.
Tank Compatibility
Air pumps should help circulate oxygen and remove unwanted gas in your aquarium water. If your air pump is too small, it won't do its task properly. Always double-check that the air pump you're buying is compatible with the size of your tank and other accessories you may have, like an air stone or a sponge filter.
Power
Air pumps are usually powered by being plugged in but many come with a battery-powered option. This is something to consider looking for so you can keep your air pump running if there's a power outage.