How to choose a compressor for an aquarium, how to reduce noise

Updated: 04/22/2021 17:12:38

Expert: Rudenko Irina Sergeevna

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

A compressor is a device designed to saturate water with oxygen and mix water flows, and is considered one of the necessary elements of every aquarium. In practice, in small “banks” the compressor can be replaced with a filter with an aeration function.

How to choose an aerator

Aquarist stores offer dozens of offers from Chinese, German, Italian, Polish, and Russian companies. The cost of a product with similar parameters is different. Aerators by design: membrane and piston.

In membrane devices, air is pumped through special membranes. The movement of the air flow is in one direction. The mechanism uses energy sparingly.

Piston compressors pump air with a piston. They have high productivity, long service life, for large aquariums. The noise level is lower than that of membrane mechanisms.

Used to pump a significant amount of air into large aquariums or several small ones at the same time. A membrane type aerator is sufficient for your home. When choosing, consider the following characteristics:

• aquarium volume;
• The power of the aerator should be such that it blows the entire water column through the spray nozzle with a stream of air. Recommended power reserve is 0.5 l/h per liter of water. Example: for a container with a volume of 300 l you will need a compressor with a capacity of 150 l/h or more;
• life time;
• noise is an individual indicator; depends on the level of comfort;
• price.

Aquarium pump

An aquarium pump is an essential attribute for coordinating air flow in aquariums of different sizes. The pump also helps supply water to the filtration system and acts as a moving element of the filter system. The pump has two main functions:

• saturation of water with oxygen;
• water filtering.

We can say that the pump combines the functions of a compressor and a water filter. Therefore, for large aquariums, you should choose a pump that can provide powerful flow circulation. This will be useful for fish and other inhabitants of the aquarium. The advantage of such a device is its low noise level, because it is immersed in water, therefore, part of the vibration is simply wasted.

Some hobbyists practice making pumps and compressors with their own hands. Such “handmade” takes place only if the user has skills in electronics, soldering parts, and has already done similar things. Otherwise, making a compressor yourself threatens to result in a short circuit, which, in turn, can lead to the death of all the inhabitants of the aquarium. It is important to strictly adhere to the rules of waterproofing.

If necessary, the compressor can be repaired manually. One of the most common breakdowns is the winding. It is important to maintain the correct number of turns on the coil to avoid overheating from working on a 220V network. Homemade models can operate on 12 Volts AC, but in order to use the unit without undesirable consequences, you have to figure out how to make it work at constant voltage. For a high-quality solution to problems with regulating the operation of the compressor in the electrical network, it is best to contact a qualified specialist.

The best compressors for an aquarium

External aerators have positive reviews on specialized forums. The models do not require special care, unlike their submersible counterparts. The rating of popular compressors is headed by high quality devices, silent, with low energy consumption and a long service life.

Eheim 400

Quiet compressor for indoor aquarium volume up to 400 l, noise 18-21 dB, power 4 W. Model with two outputs, produced in Germany. Size: 152 x 89 x 71 mm. The device kit is equipped with two sprayers and a two-meter hose. The device is equipped with a supply air regulator to change the size of air bubbles.

Membrane made of special rubber with built-in magnets. Fix the compressor with the fastening ear. The device is attached to the wall of the aquarium or to a horizontal plane. Rubber overlays reduce noise and vibration.

The well-known company EHEIM is a leader in new products and innovative technologies for aquarists. She invented the first external filter and gained worldwide fame.

Collar AquaLighter aPump maxi

Two-channel aerator, power - 3 W, for aquariums up to 200 l. Manufacturer – Ukraine. Noise indicator – up to 40 dB. The height of the water column is up to 80 cm. The kit includes a silicone hose and two air sprays. The power cable is located in the case and cannot be detached.

COLLAR has been working in the aquarium equipment market for more than 20 years. The company gained worldwide success in 2011 after the release of the quietest miniature aquarium aerators aPUMP.

Schego WS2

Silent German compressor in a transparent casing for aquariums up to 400 l. The device is characterized by the absence of vibration. Maximum productivity 250 l/h. Dimensions: 130 x 70 x 65 mm, weight 0.6 kg.

Capable of pumping air up to a depth of 2 m. Voltage – 220 V. Equipped with a meter power cord. The easy-to-use regulator controls the intensity of oxygen entering the aquarium. The device is fixed with a reliable fastening.

The Schego company creates reliable, practical, durable electrical appliances. The quality of aerators for aquariums is undeniable. Schego aerators are valued by aquarists for their lack of noise and hum during operation and their long service life.

Sera air 275 R plus

Two-channel blower for aquariums up to 280 l, power 4 W, with low noise level. Capacity: 275 l/h. Special sound-absorbing housing. Electronic control of air supply up to 0.9 m deep. The kit consists of non-return valves and a Y-connector. The model has rubber non-slip feet, with little vibration.

The German company Sera sells high-quality equipment in 80 countries.

Boyu silent mini compressor up to 80 l

Single-channel aerator power – 1.8 W; productivity 18 l/h, size: 120 x 100 x 60 mm. Compact modern design. The air supply is not regulated. The device is fixed on any side of the aquarium with a convenient, durable mount. Noise – 34 dB.

The BOYU company is a modern high-tech Chinese enterprise that specializes in the production of equipment for aquariums. Products are sold in dozens of countries around the world.

Tetratek APS 100

The aquarium compressor from a German company is silent, power 2.5 W. Maximum flow rate 100 l/h. Modern design, durable housing walls, rubber supports reduce vibration. The built-in valve according to the Silaflex patent retains its shape during prolonged use - the elastic membrane is ultra-strong. The noise reduction chamber absorbs sound up to 26 dB. The device is used for aquariums up to 100 liters.

The German company Tetra is the largest manufacturer of aquarium products and has representative offices in more than 90 countries.

Sicce air light 1500

Compressor from Italy, single-channel, silent, for aquariums up to 100 l. Distinctive feature: a working pump is detected by a light indicator. Capacity 90 l/h. It is possible to mount the device vertically. It has a modern look, compact: 95 x 50 x 57 mm. Cable length 1.5 m.

Specially designed rubber compressor feet smooth out vibration. The device is placed horizontally on a hard surface or suspended vertically.

SICCE is an Italian leading manufacturer of aquarium systems. The sales network includes more than 50 countries on 5 continents.

Miniboost 100 Aquael

Aerator made in Poland. Moderate noise, compact: 85 x 40 x 40 mm, economical energy consumption, high performance. Installed in containers up to 100 liters. The air supply is regulated by a handle. The type of product fits into aquariums of any shape. Used together with the Aquael Airlights Led, it creates an unusual look in the aquarium.

The Aquael company specializes in the production of equipment for aquarists. More than 60% of products are exported. The use of modern technologies and computer developments in product design makes high quality products.

Mouse 101

Single-channel aerator from the Chinese company KW Zone for small containers up to 40 liters. A device with an attractive appearance, reminiscent of a computer mouse, made of durable materials. Capacity 72 l/h. Water column up to 30 cm. Reliable compressor membrane. Air flows evenly. Model for outdoor installation. The manufacturer does not supply a connecting hose, check valve, or sprayer. Place the aerator above the water level, or below when installing a check valve.

KW Zone has been expanding its activities internationally for 20 years. One of the leading manufacturers of aquarium equipment and accessories for the consumer and professional markets.

Barbus up to 50 l

Inexpensive aerator made of high quality materials, low noise. For aquariums up to 50 l. Capacity 180 l/h. There are 2 models in production: Barbus SB-108 without power adjustment, Barbus AR-200 is equipped with power adjustment in 2 modes.

The Barbus company is a Russian brand that produces products for the aquarium hobby. All products meet European quality standards with a high level of reliability.

Aerators deserve attention.

Aqua Medic Mistral 200 is a single-channel membrane aerator with a cast aluminum body. Compressor feet optimally dampen vibration. The compressor is designed for continuous use without maintenance. Capacity 300 l/h Dimensions: 170 x 90 x 100 mm.

Hagen Elite 799 is a high-quality single-channel Canadian compressor. Easy to maintain, almost silent. Dimensions: 83 x 51 x 43 mm. Double multi-chamber body walls. Capacity 50 l/h.

Resun AC 9602 is a Chinese two-channel compressor for containers with a volume of up to 210 liters. Compact, dimensions: 126 x 65 x 60 mm. Capacity 210 l/h, adjustable. Attractive design.

Schego

Schego is a company also founded in Germany. Moreover, it has been on the market for 60 years. Compressors manufactured by Schego have a minimalistic appearance - a transparent body with smooth shapes, through which you can see the entire internal structure of the unit.

Tests also show good results. The compressors are very powerful, designed for large tanks of 100-300 liters, but at the same time they are even quieter than the Tetra mentioned above. It's all about the special material of the legs, which, despite their small size, effectively smoothes out vibration.

The most modest aerator from Schego, called the PRIMA 100+, shows 30 decibels when calculated for a 100-liter aquarium. The most powerful one (model M2K3) shows 35-40 dB, which is also quite acceptable.

How to reduce noise from an old compressor: some tips

A silent aerator produces extraneous buzzing sounds over time. It is possible to cope with the problem. A few simple steps will significantly muffle the sound of the aerator and prevent unwanted damage.

Keep Sprayers Clean

An air sprayer is attached to the hose: it throws out air bubbles and mixes with a whirlwind. Pressure during mixing breaks them into smaller ones - this method increases the total coverage area, gas exchange activity. The sprayer is placed closer to the bottom of the container or installed on a decorative element. Derivatives of vital activity will not rise up, clog the filter, or land on plants. Cover the sprayer with aquarium decor - shells, stones.

The problem is that the holes become clogged and difficult to clean. An unkempt atomizer gives additional resistance to the compressor and returns air flow. The increased load on the mechanism increases the noise. It is necessary to make sure that the sprayer does not require replacement. The hose is purged; if no air flows through, the sprayer is clogged. It is soaked in an acidified environment and washed under running water. A completely clogged nozzle requires replacement.

Install above the water surface

An installed compressor above the water level reduces the pressure on the device and reduces noise during operation. Increases safety in case of unexpected power failure. Water flows inside the diaphragm by gravity. The compressor will become unusable and with further water flow it will flood the room.

If it is impossible to mount the compressor above the water level, install a check valve. The increased load from the valve on the aerator reduces the operating power: it is worth purchasing a more powerful device.

Place on a hard, flat surface

Place the compressor on a hard, dense object that can pick up noise. The device will become less noisy. You can use a furniture shelf or place the device in a closet.

Foreign objects should not interfere with air intake. Do not install the compressor on the edge of a shelf - vibration may cause it to fall.

Place a vibration absorber under the compressor

Place the compressor on a vibration-absorbing mat made of polyethylene foam or foam rubber. Temporarily use a used rubber computer mouse pad and a dry dishwashing sponge.

Principle of operation

The aquarium compressor is equipped with special tubes through which oxygen is supplied to the water. You can adjust the air pressure level. This is done using special clamping clips and appropriate valves. To effectively aerate the workspace, a porous sprayer is placed on one end of the tube. Spray nozzles for aquarium compressors are made from abrasive substances or ordinary sharpening stone. Having sunk to the bottom of the aquarium, the atomizer begins to release oxygen in the form of many bubbles rising to the surface of the water. Visually it looks quite attractive, and if lighting is added to such aeration, the decorative effect will be much stronger.

It is worth mentioning that the bubbles that rise to the top are very popular with goops, neons and other types of small fish. They swim through them, trying to resist the pressure, and rise upward along with the bubbles.

The size of the bubbles is also important: the smaller they are, the larger the aeration area will be. Small fish like large bubbles, but they do not effectively oxygenate the entire aquarium space. In this regard, it is important to pay attention to the power of the purchased pump: the more powerful it is, the better. Small bubbles create more pressure. If a bubble bursts on the surface of the water, it breaks the bacterial film, which leads to an improvement in the microclimate of the entire aquarium ecosystem.

Another obvious advantage of aeration is the mixing of different layers of water. This is important to maintain an average temperature in different parts of the aquarium. By mixing, the water is better saturated with oxygen.

Operating rules

Timely maintenance of the compressor is the key to long-term operation. The manufacturer may indicate the frequency of cleaning and replacement of compressor components in the instructions.

A common cause of device failure is burnout due to fluctuations in network voltage. The compressor begins to heat up as the voltage increases. For economic reasons, some manufacturers design the inductor winding at 220 V. When the voltage increases by 15-20 V, the compressor temperature rises and heating occurs. The norm is considered to be the heat of a working device that can be felt by the hand.

Noise reduction options

Even initially silent compressors can begin to make an audible buzzing and noise after a while. This is especially problematic when the aquarium is located in living rooms, bedrooms, or in large aquariums that require powerful devices. You can reduce the noise level at home too.

If the source of noise is the buzzing of the aerator against objects or glass, then placing a soft dish sponge under the compressor will solve the problem. The sponge will absorb noise and buzzing.

For the compressor, boxes are also made for partial insulation from wood or plastic, and the inside is covered with foam rubber.

If this does not eliminate the noise, then open the device without damaging the parts. Usually the noise is produced by the operation of the membrane pressing on the air. Carefully cut or saw off the interfering parts of the membrane and the noise will disappear.

The cause of unnecessary sounds and poor performance of the aeration device is often contamination of the internal parts. To prevent contamination, clean your aquarium monthly. The loose parts are still noisy. To stop the noise, simply tighten the loose parts.

Kinds

There are various aerators available on the market. Models differ in power, performance, size, and design.

For small volume

Resun AC 500 – compressor for containers up to 40 l, single-channel. Simple design. Compact: 76x40x45 mm. Capacity 72 l/h, not adjustable.

Collar aPUMP Mini is a silent compressor for aquariums up to 40 l. According to the manufacturer, it is the smallest compressor in the world. Size: 31 x 31 x 18 mm. The height of the water column is 40 cm.

Jebo Sonic 2168F is a single-channel compressor designed for aquariums up to 60 liters. Capacity 90 l/h, smooth air regulation. Dimensions: 86 x 54 x 53 mm. Voltage: 220-240 V. The compressor is equipped with a biofilter with activated carbon.

For large volume

JBL ProSilent a400 is a German compressor for large volumes. Capacity 400 l/h. Can be used for aquariums up to 600 l. There is no flow control. At an air pressure of more than 180 mbar, it consumes 5.5 W of electricity. Size: 185 x 160 x 90 mm.

Resun AC 2000 is a two-channel compressor with a simple design for aquariums up to 300 l. Compact: size – 126x65x60 mm. Capacity 216 l/h, continuously adjustable. Power 3 W.

Tetratec APS is a single-channel compressor for aquariums up to 400 l, with a capacity of 400 l/h. The height of the water column is 1.3 m.

With high power

Resun AC 9603 is a two-channel compressor. Attractive design with convenient performance adjustment. Compact: dimensions 183 x 97 x 67 mm. For containers up to 270 l. Capacity 270 l/h, power 6 W.

Schego M2K3 Deluxe is a single-channel membrane aerator. Capacity 350 l/h, power 5 W. Size: 170 x 75 x 60 mm, power cable 1 m.

Resun AC 9602 is a two-channel compressor. Attractive appearance, compact, with adjustable performance. Dimensions: 126x65x60 mm. For aquariums from 45 to 210 l. Productivity, l/h: 210, power 5 W.

Collar

The aPUMP compressor from Collar is the leader in all tests.

If you read aquarium forums, you can see that professionals claim that his work is almost inaudible. The manufacturer claims a noise level of 35 dB, but in fact the result turned out to be much better - only 7 decibels. (Remember that the permissible noise level according to standards in a room intended for sound recording, equipped with insulation, is 2 dB).

Collar aPUMP is effective in aquariums with a volume of less than two hundred liters; This is currently the most compact and quietest aerator in the world. It is also effective in high aquariums up to 80 centimeters deep due to the powerful air flow. At a water height of 50 cm, it produces noise of no more than 10 decibels.

DIY aeration

Pet stores sell a variety of devices that can purify the air. But there is an option to do aeration in the aquarium with your own hands.

To make a compressor for an aquarium with your own hands, you will have to purchase a power supply and a motor.

What you will need:

• Power unit.
• A small motor (for example, from a printer).
• Plastic cover.
• Candles.
• Rubber tube.
• Adapter.
• Balloon.
• A wooden stick (for example, from a lollipop).
• Hot glue stick.
• Several wooden blocks.
• Plywood.
• Wire.
• An elastic band (for example, from a bicycle inner tube or a ball).

How to make a compressor for aeration with your own hands:

1. Cut the balloon in half with scissors.

2. Take a plastic cover and drill 2 holes in it (3 and 6 mm) at the same distance. Sand rough edges.

3. We cut out a horseshoe shape from elastic band. This will be the valve of the device. The valve is glued with its legs to the inside of the drilled cover. The wide part of the valve should cover the 3mm hole.

4. We pull the cut out part of the ball onto the lid. The surface should be elastic, like a small drum. Glue with tape and trim off the excess parts of the ball.
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5. Cut out a small rectangle from plywood. It must be proportionate to the motor. Glue the motor to the plywood.
6. Now let's make the base of the compressor. We take a piece of plywood and 2 bars. We glue the bars to the plywood in the form of legs and supports. We glue the prepared motor with plywood into the corner. At the bottom there is a connector for connecting the power supply.

7. We shorten the stick; it should be no more than 8 mm wide. Using an awl, we pierce holes on the top and sides. Insert a piece of wire into the hole on the side. It turned out to be an eccentric. We install it on the motor shaft.

8. Shorten the lollipop stick by 4 cm. Glue it to the candlestick. To attach it to the eccentric, drill a hole on the side of the stick and attach it. Attach the other end of the stick with glue to the center of the lid with the ball. Glue the cover onto the plywood.

9. Cut a 6 mm hole in the lid with the ball. Fix the adapter into the hole and attach the rubber tube.

The aerator is ready for use.

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Functions

The compressor performs several important functions in an aquarium:

1. Aeration - air bubbles with which the device enriches the water contribute to additional oxygen saturation. This will make aquarium inhabitants feel more comfortable.
2. Mixing of water layers. Regular bubbling helps to equalize the water temperature. In addition, constant circulation prevents water from stagnating and quickly deteriorating.
3. Aesthetics. Rising air bubbles give the aquarium a pleasant appearance and relax you.
4. Bubbles destroy bacterial and dust films that usually form on the surface.
5. Aeration helps to imitate natural conditions for some aquarium inhabitants.

Now you understand how important it is to constantly aerate water and saturate it with oxygen.