Hydroponic gardening is a famous trend these days. This method omits the soil while using air, water, and nutrients to fulfill the requirements of plants. Among these requirements, the oxygen for the underwater roots is essential for the successful working of the system. And this is done by using a suitable air pump. Markets are full with a large range of air pumps; choosing the right one among which needs some research. We are here to help you out select the best one for your growing system. Keep reading to get a list of the best air pumps for hydroponics.
How to select the best air pumps for hydroponics?
The basic function of an air pump is to provide adequate air to the underwater roots of the hydroponic reservoir. Inadequate oxygen can suffocate the roots leading to issues like fungal and algal attacks and root rot.
When it comes to oxygen availability for the roots, the rule is ‘the more the better’. So, it is better to select a bigger air pump that can provide more air to the roots. Moreover, the same pump will be enough to cater to a larger reservoir, in case you decide to expand.
Among a few others, the initial considerable factor for the selection of air pump is the size of the reservoir. The pump should provide air at the rate of around 500 to 600cc per minute. This is an estimated rate to ensure good oxygen to the roots of the hydroponic plants.
Without any further ado, let us get a list of the 10 Best air pumps for Hydroponics:
Hydrofarm Active Aqua Air Pump
With a capacity of delivering up to 240 gallons/ hour of oxygen, it is suitable enough for a variety of hydroponic sizes.
Moreover, it equally serves the deepwater hydroponic cultures and the beginner level systems. The product comes with a multi-level internal muffler that minimizes the noise. Above all, the quality parts make it a durable product ensuring service for years.
The four outlet system and synthetic rubber diaphragm provide constant airflow. The pressure dial at the top enables you to select the suitable airflow according to the size of the reservoir and plant density.
Pros:
- A light-weight and sleek product that is easy to carry and set.
- Low electricity consumption resulting in a reduced bill.
- Four different sizes are available to cover all kinds of hydroponic systems.
- 1-year warranty from the manufacturer.
Cons:
- The slight humming sound maybe a little irritating for sensitive people. However, this sound is much lesser as compared to a variety of other air pumps.
Active Aqua Commercial Air Pump
The 8 outlets are individually controllable enabling you to fully control the airflow to each portion.
Moreover, it becomes suitable for multiple reservoirs and air stones. Additionally, these outlets are made up of graded copper and stainless steel which enhances their durability. Besides the airflow, the multi-level muffler enables you to control the noise level for each reservoir.
Pros:
- Lower consumption of electricity.
- Suitable for multiple reservoirs and air-stones.
- Internal artificial rubber allowing constant air-pressure.
- Strong pump with high output.
- Durable product.
Cons:
- The irreplaceable diaphragms decrease the product life and the value of money.
VIVOSUN Commercial Air Pump
This product also comes with a strong electromagnetic motor with about 0.02 mpa air, pumping about 60 liters of air per minute. Also, it comes in several sizes from 20 to 102 W, enabling you to select according to your reservoir.
The aluminum alloy thickened mold makes the product durable and heat-up controlled. The 6 output valves or the distributors are independently adjustable, allowing you to control the air stone and pressure.
The manufacturers have smartly used rubber base to minimize operational noise. This oil-free operating air-pump further comes with a 1.5-meter cord, making the purchase more valuable.
Pros:
- Provides high air-pressure.
- Energy-saving and oil-free operation.
- Lower Noise.
Cons:
- Not much suitable for smaller and domestic hydroponic systems.
Eco Air Commercial Air Pump
This 120 Volts and 2.5 pounds Aluminum product comes in silver color. You can easily operate it without oil. The chrome air manifolds come with 6 independently adjustable outlet valves.
Moreover, all the cylinders and pistons are created from a high-quality material which enhances product quality and durability.
Pros:
- Multiple-use product.
- Durable product.
Cons:
- Slightly noisy as compared to the products mentioned above.
VIVIHOME electromagnetic Commercial Air Pump
The strong electromagnetic motor comes with a maximum capacity of pushing around 1750 gallons of air per hour. Moreover, the non-oil operation makes it suitable for systems like protein skimmers, ozone reactors, and high flow devices.
The product is available in a variety of powers from 20W to 102W. Thus, you can select according to the size of the water body and the oxygen requirement.
Also, the high-quality aluminum alloy casing enhances durability. So, it is powerful enough for commercial usage.
Pros:
- Multi-use product.
- Strong device and powerful electromagnetic motor.
- Water-resistant casing.
- Durable parts.
Cons:
- The high-pressure working may result in heating up the device. However, it is natural/usual for high-pressure products.
- The product needs proper care like saving from sunlight and high temperature. Moreover, professional installation is essential to avoid electric shock.
Simple Deluxe Air pump
It is available in several options from 602 to 1744 GPH, helping you choose according to the size and life density of the tank.
The high-quality ZL 102 Aluminum ensures durability and water-resistance. The powerful electromagnetic motor pumps around 38liters of air per minute. The 6 adjustable outlets help you control the airflow to different portions. Also, you can easily use it for several independent reservoirs.
The tube is made up of transparent and bio-healthy products minimizing the toxins for the life in your tanks. The wear-resistant and shockproof external metal casing enhance the durability and safety level for users.
Pros:
- Strong and high-pressure electromagnetic motor.
- No-oil operation.
- Noiseless operation ( less than 60 decibels)
- Suitable for multiple reservoirs and different functions.
Cons:
- Average price level.
- Not a light-weight product.
General Hydroponics Air Pump
The high output pump provides the air at a rate of 320 mph/24, 800cc/minute. Furthermore, it can pump around 320 gallons of air per hour.
The four adjustable output valves made it useful for multi-reservoir hydroponics and individual portion control. Moreover, these valves can be teed off again to aerate even eight different bodies.
The lightweight product weighs 1.3 pounds making it easy to use and carry the product. Moreover, the dual-diaphragm system makes it preferable for people who opt to use air stones in hydroponics.
Pros:
- Powerful dual-diaphragm product.
- Noiseless operation.
- Useful for using multiple stones and up to 8 different reservoirs.
- Durable product.
Cons:
- Chances of air leakage through manifolds.
EcoPlus HGC728459 EcoAir7 Air Pump
This one too is a strong product suitable enough for commercial usage. The chrome air manifold ranges from 6 to 12 outlets. The high-quality material used for making pistons and cylinders enhances the durability of the product.
Pros:
- Comes from a renowned brand.
- Durable product.
- Suitable for multiple reservoirs through the adjustable valves.
Cons:
- Heavyweight product.
- Somewhat pricy product.
EcoPlus Commercial Air Pump
Moreover, the 120 V pump is an ETL listed product like all other products of the same brand. The oil-less processing and quiet operation are other beneficial features of this product.
Pros:
- Durable and graded product.
- Noiseless operation.
- Suitable for multiple reservoirs.
Cons:
- Heavyweight product.
- Somewhat pricy product.
Danner Manufacturing Inc. Air Pump
These features make it suitable for single and not so deep reservoirs only. The energy-efficient 2.8W(or 1.5W) motor works with a capacity of providing air volume at the rate of about 110-cubic inches (7.8L) per minute.
The product helps you to avoid usual air-pump noise by multi-level muffler allowing a silent working. Moreover, the artificial rubber helps to provide a steady and adjustable output of air-flow.
Pros:
- Easy to use.
- The economical price is suitable for lower budgets.
- Anti-heat-up functioning making it better than many competing pumps.
- Comes with a 1-year limited manufacturing warranty.
Cons:
- A single outlet system limits the usage as a multi-reservoir product.
- Not suitable for deep-water reservoir setups.
Related Posts:
10 best water pump for hydroponics
Summary
The importance of air pumps is crucial in hydroponic growth systems. These are essential to ensure proper aeration and oxygen availability to the roots of underwater plants. Selecting a suitable air pump for your reservoir is a tricky job, no doubt.
According to our research and customer reviews, the 3 Best Air Pump for Hydroponics include Hydrofarm Active Aqua Air Pump, ActiveAqua Commercial Air Pump, and VIVOSUN Commercial Air Pump. Hope this list helps you to select the best product for your Hydroponics! Happy Planting!
