What Does a Spray Bar on an Aquarium Do?

Aquarium filtration systems come in a variety of shapes and sizes -- some even come with special attachments to increase surface agitation and oxygenation. One of these attachments is called a spray bar which can be connected to the outlet valve of canister filters. Spray bars are fairly simple in design and easy to use, but they can make a big difference in the oxygen content of your water. If you are looking for a way to oxygenate your water without much effort, consider switching to an aquarium filter that utilizes a spray bar.

  1. What is a Spray Bar?

    • A spray bar is a tube-like extension that comes with certain types of aquarium filters. These add-ons are most commonly used in conjunction with canister filters, though they can be adapted for use with other models. The spray bar itself simply consists of a plastic tube connected to the output valve on the filter. This tube may have a series of small holes drilled through it or it may have a series of small prong-like extensions which are open ended to allow the flow of water.

    What Does it Do?

    • When used in conjunction with an aquarium filter, spray bars are the means through which filtered water is returned to the tank. While traditional power filters and hang-on filters typically utilize a waterfall-like return system which releases the water in one area of the tank, spray bars spread the filtered water across the surface of the tank. This not only helps to achieve more even distribution of filtered water, but it also creates surface movement and helps to increase oxygenation.

    Tips for Use

    • Most spray bars that come with commercial aquarium filters are adjustable and you may need to tweak the position of the spray bar to achieve the ideal level of flow and water movement. The spray bar should be positioned under the water with the outlet aimed at the water surface -- this will help to ensure proper oxygenation of tank water. You may choose to position the spray bar vertically along one tank wall or horizontally along the tank back. As is true with any type of aquarium filtration, it is important to select a unit that corresponds appropriately to your tank size. Read the information on the packaging of the filter you are considering to determine which model is recommended for the tank size you have.

    DIY Spray Bar

    • If you are looking for a way to customize the filtration system you have in your tank, consider creating your own homemade spray bar. By building your own spray bar you can make the bar the perfect length for your tank and you can save a great deal of money by making it yourself. For the bar itself all you need is a piece of 3/8-inch PVC pipe cut to the desired length for your spray bar. Plug one end of the pipe and drill 1/8th-inch holes spaced 1 inch apart along the length of the pipe. The final step is to attach the spray bar to your filter output using a PVC elbow and secure it to the back wall of your tank using two or three suction cups.