How to Set Up an Air System in an Aquarium

No matter what the size of your aquarium is or what type of fish you plan to keep, proper aeration is important. Setting up an air system in your fish tank keeps the water moving, providing a more natural environment for your fish and helping the filtration system work more efficiently. Setting up that aeration system is not difficult, but you do need to have the right equipment available before you get started. First, purchase an air pump that is designed for a larger tank than the one you have. Buying a more powerful pump means that the pump will not have to work as hard, and that can help it last longer.

Things You'll Need

  • Air pump
  • Air stones
  • Aquarium tubing
  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a suitable spot for your air pump. You can purchase a special shelf that is designed to hang from the side of the tank, or you can simply sit the pump on the floor, or inside your aquarium stand.

    • 2

      Measure the distance between the aquarium pump and the bottom of the tank, then cut your aquarium tubing to that length. Insert a pencil in both ends of the aquarium tubing to widen it slightly and make it easier to fit over the aquarium pump and the air stone.

    • 3

      Attach one end of the aquarium tubing to an air stone. You can use a small air stone for smaller tank setups, or a large air stone that creates a wall of bubbles for larger tanks.

    • 4

      Place the other end of aquarium tubing over the fitting on the air pump. Place the air stone in the aquarium, then plug the pump in. You should immediately see a wall of bubbles coming out of your air stone.