Fish won’t have healthy oxygenated air to live on if the circulation is not provided. Always make it a habit to check on your pump periodically. These pumps normally come with your fish tank purchase, but if it doesn’t, you will still need to purchase one.

You can find the correct type of fish tank pump by matching the size of the aquarium with the recommended size of the aquarium pump (hint: read the pump’s box – it will tell you). Most pumps are universal. However, you still need to make sure you have all the information available in regards to your fish tank so that you will be provided with the proper fit. You will need to measure your fish tanks dimensions and you will need to know your water flow capacity by gallons per hour.

Things to Keep in Mind when Purchasing a Fish Tank Pump

* Resistance – it is important to know what type of resistance is offered. Knowing this will help increase your fish tanks efficiency. The more resistance there is, the more back pressure is present requiring you to have a more powerful pump.

* Heat Generation – look to see how much heat is generated with a particular system and find out if there are any accessories to reduce the amount of heat so that your aquarium temperature levels will not be affected. The larger the pump, the more there is heat production.

* Noise Level - There are many brands of aquarium pumps that produce too much noise. With some pumps, you are able to compensate for the noise by placing an object underneath it to reduce the amount of vibration. With other systems you can purchase air pumps that are much quieter on their own. Too much noise can be a distraction as well as stressful for your fish.

* Number of returns – Consider using a powerful pump if you plan to have water return from a filter back to your aquarium through the use of return lines. Water flow may decrease with more returns. This is another reason why it is important to purchase a powerful fish tank pump.

* Size of the Tank – People usually consider the largest and most powerful fish tank pump before getting a smaller sized pump and not considering what their actual aquarium needs. Remember, large pumps produce much more heat and noise. However, too small of a pump may lack the power needed requiring you to purchase additional accessories. In general, it is always best to carefully consider the size of fish tank and the overall purpose of having a water or air pump rather than just buying the first pump found online!

* Check your pump periodically and replace defective parts immediately to maintain the ecosystem of your tank.

* Some quality brands include the tetra air pump, whisper water pumps and filters, Eheim pumps, and many more!