DIY Aquarium Propeller Pump Circulation

Propeller pumps (frequently termed centrifugal pumps) are driven by an electrical motor that is sealed within a waterproof housing. A propeller (impeller) powered by the motor, draws water into the pump and then forces it out through the pump's nozzle. Currents created by propeller-driven pumps not only circulate tank water horizontally, but also replaces the oxygen-depleted bottom water with oxygenated "surface" water. By circulating the aquarium water, propeller pumps create conditions in the tank similar to those found in nature. Many fish species swim into the currents for exercise and the strong water flow removes old mucus on their bodies.

Things You'll Need

  • Two propeller pumps (powerheads)
  • Two electrical timers (timing controllers)
  • Two venturi pipes with air intake nipples (diameter of propeller pump nozzle)
  • 2.3-inch transparent plastic pipe (diameter of propeller pump nozzle)
  • 7.8-inch air line tubing
  • Two plastic clamps
  • Kettle
  • Small heat-resistant bowl
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Fill the kettle with water to boil it. Pour a little water into the bowl.

    • 2

      Cut the plastic 2.3-inch pipe in half and hold the end of one piece in the boiling water for 20 seconds. Push this "heated" end over the nozzle of one of the propeller pumps. Place the opposite end of the plastic pipe into the hot water and attach a venturi pipe to it. Repeat the process with the other propeller pump and venturi.

    • 3

      Cut the air line tubing into two equal lengths. Attach one piece of air line tubing to the venturi nipple on each propeller pump. Attach a plastic clamp to the air line tubing on each pump (the end of this air line tubing must be above the water level).

    • 4

      Secure the first propeller pump to one of the (inside) side panes of the aquarium by pushing the rubber suckers that hold the pump firmly onto the glass.

    • 5

      Place the second propeller pump onto the opposite (inside) glass pane, so that it faces the first pump.

    • 6

      Set the timer for the first pump to run from 06:00 to 12:00 and then from 18:00 to 24:00.

    • 7

      Set the timer for the second pump to run from 12:00 to 18:00 and then from 24:00 to 06:00.

    • 8

      Plug each timer into a power source and plug each pump into a timer. Switch on the power source.

    • 9

      Adjust the amount of bubbles that are produced by the venturi, by tightening or loosening the clamp.