Air pump malfunction is one of the basic problems associated with being a fish owner. Your air pump may not be blowing air bubbles due to many reasons.
The mechanical filter could not be operating if there aren’t any bubbles. The filter’s air pipes could be disconnected, and you may need to repair the filter or replace it. Cleaning your filter is crucial to maintain a steady airflow. A broken rubber bladder, improper placement of the air pump, or faulty tubing could all be reasons for malfunctioning pumps.
Read on to discover all about malfunctioning air pumps and how to fix them.
What is an Air Pump?
A aquarium air pump is one the most versatile equipment you can have in your aquarium. The primary function of an aquarium air pump is to blow out air. It uses mechanical filters to force bubbles into your aquarium. By forcing air into the aquarium water, you create stable water currents and also provide oxygen to the aquarium inhabitants. Aquarium fish need fresh oxygen to breathe efficiently.
Types Of Air Pumps
General Purpose Air Pump
These pumps are ideal for running ornaments, sponge filters, under-gravel filters, and general aeration purposes. There are many sizes that can be purchased from manufacturers for aquarium enthusiasts. Larger models are perfect for deeper aquariums. They are also great if you want to run multiple air driven.
High Output Air Pumps
These pumps are ideal for large aquariums with high-pressure requirements. These pumps can be used for large ponds that have large air-stones. They can come with a piston or diaphragm design, and they are typically louder and more powerful than other air pumps.
Battery-powered
You don’t need to plug in a battery-powered general air pump. These air pumps are life-savers during power outages or when you want to transport fish. Some battery-powered air pumps can perform dual functions. They can operate on A/C power under normal conditions and switch to D/C power during electricity outages.
How to Fix a Faulty Air Pump
Here are some other common fixes for a faulty air pump:
Broken Rubber Bladder
You can easily spot a tear in the rubber bladder by running your finger over the air pump and feeling for an opening. These tears are small, so you have to move the bladder to find any cuts or holes in the rubber. If the rubber bladder is broken, you will need to replace the entire device.
Placement of Air Pump
The solution may be as simple as placing the air pump in a higher position. Check to see if the air pump is in a higher position.
Kink in the Tubing
When installing your new air pump, make sure that there are no kinks or folds in the tubing. You can run your finger over the tubing to ensure that it’s straight. The rubber can become twisted and stop air bubbles.
Cleaning Mechanical Filters

A dirty mechanical filter can also prevent air pumps from blowing bubbles. A sponge may be found inside a mechanical filter. This is the main filter component that you will need to clean. Here’s how you can clean a mechanical filter:
Siphon or scoop out some water
You will need two cups of water from the tank to clean the filter’s sponge. For the health of your fish, you should not use tap water or distilled water. Fish are highly sensitive to environmental changes. You can make sure your fish feel happy and at ease by keeping them hydrated with tank water. Use a siphon or a plastic cup to scoop out some water from the tank. You can drain it into a large container or into a bucket.
Unplug the filter
The next step is pretty self-explanatory. Unplug your mechanical filter to avoid electrocuting yourself as you clean it. To make life easier, you can also take the filter out of your tank. You will also need a bowl, bucket, or sink to avoid spilling water on the floor.
Clean the sponge or pad
This step is quick and painless if you have a water bowl. You don’t want to leave your fish without a filter for long. All you have to do is wash the entire gunk off of the sponge. Deep cleaning can be done with your hands or the tank water. The sponge should be washed until it runs clear. If you don’t want to touch a dirty aquarium, you can wear gloves or hire a professional to do it for you.
*If your sponge is dirty, you can replace it.
Scrub the casing and tubes
Use the leftover tank water in the bowl to clean all other parts of the filter. If the tank water is soiled, you can always grab more. You can scrub any hard to reach areas by using a filter cleaning brush – cleaning brushes are available at most pet supply stores.
Put the sponge back
The final step is to return the filter to your fish tank.
Uses of Air Pumps
Aeration
Fish require oxygen to survive like many animals. They can “breathe” oxygen from aquarium water. They can absorb dissolved oxygen through their gills. While the aquarium absorbs oxygen at its surface, this may not always be enough.
An air pump can be used to increase O2 and CO2 gas exchange. It keeps oxygen concentrations at safe levels. Air Pumps allow air bubbles to escape, increasing surface agitation. This allows for increased oxygen levels within the fish tank. You can make thousands of oxygen bubbles by using an air pump and an air stone.
Decoration
Many people add an Air Stone (powered by the air pump) to their aquarium to create a beautiful flow of tiny bubbles. Air stones come in many shapes and sizes. For dramatic aquarium effects, some ornaments and stones also come with LED lighting.
Filters
Under-gravel filters, sponge filters, and many other filters use air pumps to function. An air pump creates water currents by releasing air bubbles. It draws water through simple filters. This powering method can also supply fresh oxygen to aerobic bacteria. All aquarium inhabitants need oxygen to thrive!
Protein Skimmer
Some types of protein skimmers also use an air stone to produce the foam. This is used to remove organic waste and protein from the aquarium water. These protein skimmers are made from wooden air stones, and they produce small bubbles that are extremely efficient.
The Importance of Air Pumps
You may be wondering why an air pump is necessary for your fish tank. We all know that fish require oxygen to survive, but different factors can impact how much oxygen fish receive in your tank:
Temperature
It’sIt’s harder for oxygen to be available for aquarium inhabitants with higher water temperatures. Water temperature can fluctuate between seasons, so it’s important to have an air-pump. This will allow for efficient oxygen production, even during the summer heat.
Population Size
The amount of fish stock in your tank can affect the oxygen levels. The oxygen levels can also be affected by the size of your fish stock. When you are stocking a densely populated tank, it’s important to install an air pump. It will produce enough oxygen for all your aquarium inhabitants.
Waste
If your tank has excessive organic waste, it will need more oxygen to break down all the waste material. Installing an air pump is a great idea to clean up all the waste.
Air Pumps provide extra protection and ensure the health of your fish.
FAQ:
What causes a lack of oxygen in aquariums?
Low oxygen levels can be caused by excessive waste, clogged filters and algae overgrowth. A large amount of dissolved ox is required for the breakdown of waste and debris by bacteria in aquarium gravel. You can install an air pump to ensure a constant oxygen supply for your fish.
Are tetras fond of air bubbles?
Fresh oxygen bubbles are a favorite treat for neon tetras. Air Pumps promote aeration by breaking surface tension and creating water bubbles. Air pumps are recommended for fish tanks with large numbers. Large population size can make oxygen levels deplete quickly. It’s best to get an air pump because you don’t want your neon tetras gasping for oxygen.
Is it possible for mollyfish to live without an oxygen pump?
Mollies can’t survive without oxygen. Anytime the oxygen levels in the aquarium drop, your fish become susceptible to illnesses and diseases.
Are too many bubbles a danger to fish?
Try to keep your air bubbles at a minimum. Too many air bubbles can cause damage to fish eggs and other accidents. It can also prevent fish from relaxing and sleeping normally. High-force bubbles can also kill small fish.
Why is my pump so loud?
Pumps that make too much noise can be caused by worn diaphragms. Your air pump may also be affected by the increased pressure. Air pumps need to work harder to push air in larger aquariums, which causes more noise.