Homemade Lift Pump

Lift pumps, commonly known as air lift pumps, are found in many hydroponic systems as well as aquariums. They work by pushing air through a plastic tube into the water. The air helps provide the nutrients to roots of plants in hydroponic systems or aquariums. Though they are rather effective, air pumps are known to malfunction over time due to a loss of power and diaphragm failure. Repair kits are sold at pet stores, but you can build your own lift pump cost efficiently.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic tube (1/2 inch diameter)
  • Plumber's glue
  • 1/4-inch barbed elbow
  • Scissors
  • Rags
  • Aquarium air pump
  • Aquarium air pump hose
  • Drill
  • Epoxy
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Instructions

    • 1

      Empty the aquarium or tank. Move any fish from the aquarium to a bucket filled with water.

    • 2

      Cut the plastic tubing with scissors to a length that leaves the tubing approximately one inch below the water level.

    • 3

      Drill a 1/4 inch hole into the side of the plastic tubing approximately 1.5 inches from the bottom.

    • 4

      Cut the bottom of the plastic tube to a 45-degree angle with the scissors.

    • 5

      Place one end of the barbed elbow joint into the hole on the tube's side.

    • 6

      Use a clean rag to dry the inside of the tank. Make sure the area where the lift pump will be installed is dry so the epoxy will stick.

    • 7

      Apply epoxy to the bottom part of the plastic tube and stick it to the bottom side of the aquarium tank. The side of the plastic tube with the hole should face the interior of the tank. Apply some additional epoxy to the back of the tube to stick it to the tank's wall.

    • 8

      Allow enough time for the epoxy to dry fully. Read the label to determine the drying time. It time varies by each epoxy brand.

    • 9

      Join the aquarium air pump hose to the free end of the barbed elbow joint. Connect the other end of the hose on the air pump's output.

    • 10

      Secure the hose to the barbed elbow joint with plumber's glue to avoid leaks. Allow the glue to dry before proceeding.

    • 11

      Refill the aquarium tank with water. Turn the air pump on to test your new air lift. Make sure to check the tube and hose for any leaks. If leaks are found, drain the tank and dry the air pump lift with a clean rag. Fix the leaks by adding additional plumber's glue where the hose and elbow joint are joined.

    • 12

      Place any fish that were in the aquarium back in the water, once you are sure the air lift pump has no leaks.