Maintaining the nutrient reservoir can be challenging if you are just beginning as a hydroponic gardener. This is primarily because there are multiple choices.
However, the most important of the lot is the oxygenation of your nutrient reservoir.
Your primary focus must be on air stones, airline turbines, and the air pump. In this piece, we will focus on the best air pump for hydroponics that are available in the market right now.
We have picked out the top varieties that you can consider, along with a few other things that you need to know to buy a quality air pump and operate it.
Table of Contents
How do I know when my chives are ready to harvest?
Since you are growing your garden hydroponically, you need to provide the plants with all they require to survive and grow. Of course, water, light, and nutrients are essential; oxygenation is also an important part.
Soil contains tiny pockets of air. A plant, even though in water, is not completely submerged.
Now, if you don’t use the best air pump for hydroponic in your setup, the stagnant water will eventually run out of Oxygen, submerging the plant roots. This will cause your plant to drown in the nutrient reservoir.
Thus the importance of air pumps in a hydroponic system is imminent.
An air pump allows the diffusion of water and air. When an air pump is placed at the bottom of the reservoir along with high-quality stones, the bubbles increase the oxygen levels of the nutrients reservoir keeping the levels mixed.
So, now that you know the benefit of using an air pump; let’s head out to check a few best air pump for hydroponics that you can consider.
Quick Review:
- Top pick: Simple Deluxe Air Pump.
- Best value: VIVOSUN 317-1750GPH Commercial Air Pump.
- Best commercial: EcoPlus Eco Air7 Commercial Air Pump.
- Best use: VIVOHOME Electromagnetic Commercial Air Pump.
- Best among users: Kulife Aquarium Air Pump.
Best air pump for hydroponics 2023: A Detailed Review
The market is not short of air pumps at the moment as there are many brands out there. However, selecting the best air pump for hydroponics wasn’t a easy task for me to be honest.
I have manually tested as much as 25 different products of various brands on my own system before finalizing products for this list.
Features that I have given most importance are like durability, materials, warranty and return policy, portability and affordability. If you find this list to be useful, then feel free to share it as well.
Note: I review this list in every 3-6 months, and try to include any fresh/latest products if need be. But, before that I test it for a good period of time.
I am also aware of the fact that all the major brands are keep launching new air pumps every year, so it’s better to keep you all updated with that regard as well.
Simple Deluxe Air Pump
Features
- The pump gives out 38 liters of air per minute.
- The noise level is less than 60 decibels.
- Copper-made nozzles.
- The unit weighs 2.96 pounds.
- Runs on 18W.
- Produces maximum air pressure.
The Simple Deluxe Air Pump is made from ZL 102 aluminum alloy of the most premium quality. This long-lasting pump can supply multiple aquariums or hydroponic setups from its six adjustable water valve outlets.
Thanks to less amount of lubrication, the compressed air that comes out of the pump is of premium quality.
The pump is powered by an 18W powerful motor that generates intense air pressure while delivering quality air from the valve’s copper-made outlet nozzle.
To make the pump shockproof and water-resistant, it has a rubber base. It also includes a steel engine Cylinder Piston to fight against any wear or tear.
There are four different GPH models available for your requirements. You can place this pump at your convenience, thanks to the 1.5-meter power cord.
Overall the pump is ideal for both small and large-sized aquariums.
Pros
✅ High-level durability and excellent specs.
✅ Premium quality material and built.
✅ 30 days return policy.
✅ Excellent price point.
✅ Features a multitude of situations.
Cons
❌ It may not be a good option for big-sized tanks.
❌ The unit gets overheated at time.
❌ A tad bit noisy.
The Final Verdict
One of the best pumps for diverse uses at an affordable price point.
VIVOSUN 317-1750GPH Commercial Air Pump
Features
- Premium quality construction.
- Produces a lot of air pressure.
- 60 liters of air produced each minute.
- Low noise (below 60 decibels).
- Quality heat control with thickened aluminum molding.
- Requires 32W power usage.
If you need a pump that extends the operating range of ordinary pumps, look no further. VIVOSUN 317-1750GPH is a commercial quality heavy-duty pump that will get your work done.
The pump is made from high-quality aluminum and can run long operations without monitoring. It’s overall a powerhouse, to say the least. Owing to its super-strong electromagnetic motor, it can withstand high air pressure while delivering a more significant amount of air through the six valve outlets that can be adjusted.
Amidst all the pros, it must be noted that this pump generates a large amount of heat. Of course, the pump body or material won’t be damaged by the heat produced; it’s advisable to keep it separate from flammable objects.
The pump has a vast set of nozzles made from premium aluminum and copper. All-in-all, this pump has all the features that users desire.
Pros
✅ The pump features diverse usage.
✅ Portable and rugged.
✅ It includes additional accessories.
✅ Power and pressure can save adjusted.
✅ Affordable.
Cons
❌ Generates a lot of heat.
❌ The pump is a bit heavier and bigger than standard pumps.
The Final Verdict
The pump is potent and has diverse applications. Overall it has an above-average performance level.
EcoPlus Eco Air7 Commercial Air Pump
Features
- More power than 200 watts.
- Includes 12 outlets.
- The pump has rubber feet for absorbing vibrations.
- Heavy-duty unit.
The EcoPlus Eco Air7 Commercial Air Pump is another option you can consider if you are looking for a versatile option. The powerful hydroponic pump produces a large quantity of dissolved Oxygen.
So much as 3566 gallons of Oxygen is produced per hour by this unit. Therefore if you are looking to get more O2 in your nutrient reservoir or fish tank, this is the pump for you.
The pump has twelve outlets and is thus ideal for setting up a big hydroponic garden. Besides, it also includes a chrome air manifold.
Even though the unit is feature-loaded, it is simply designed and thus easy to use. Additionally, it does not generate a lot of noise like many other pumps on the market.
The cylinders and pistols of this pump are made from premium quality material and are sure to last for a long time. To make the setup more flexible, the manufacturer includes ½ inch to ⅜ inch fittings.
Pros
✅ The unit has 12 valves and outlets for setup.
✅ It does not generate a lot of noise.
✅ The piston and cylinders are highly durable.
Cons
❌ It’s a tad bit expensive.
The Final Verdict
It’s an ideal option for those looking for a unit to produce a large quantity of Oxygen.
VIVOHOME Electromagnetic Commercial Air Pump
Features
- Excellent output.
- Strong construction.
- Easy to use.
- Features heat control.
- Wide range of application.
If you are looking for a pump that will provide high-quality air to your aquarium, this is the unit you want. You can use this pump for multiple things in your grow room.
The pump is made from premium quality material and ensures the convenience of operation. Besides, the unit consumes less power and pressure. Unlike other pumps that require regular maintenance like oiling, this one does not. Thus, it’s an ideal option for beginners.
The pump is paired with a commercial-grade electromagnetic motor, making 950 gallons of Oxygen per hour that you can use for multiple purposes.
Like a few options in this list, this pump also features a high-quality aluminum alloy body that makes it durable and resistant.
The air pump is highly powerful and can run six outlets at a time. Additionally, its non-lubricating design produces pure compressed air for most hydroponic systems.
Pros
✅ The unit includes a magnetic and electrical air compressor.
✅ Premium quality durable aluminum case.
✅ Easy controls with splitter bank.
✅ Made from aluminum alloy.
Cons
❌ Warms up after prolonged use.
❌ Ideal for small and medium-sized tanks.
The Final Verdict
The pump is easy to operate and features versatile usage.
Kulife Aquarium Air Pump
Features
- Multiple applications.
- Includes required accessories.
- Heat resistant.
- Produces large air output.
- Highly energy efficient.
Don’t let the small size of the pump to you; it can deliver a large amount of high-pressure compressed air.
Manufactured using top-quality material, this pump is easy to operate and maintain. It’s also lubricant-free, so you need not do frequent oiling of the pump.
The pump also uses electromagnetic energy and features pistons and cylinders made from high-quality material. Even though the unit produces ample O2, it consumes less power.
Unlike a few other options mentioned in this list, this pump does not generate much heat thanks to the aluminum alloy housing. Nonetheless, the pump must be placed in a well-ventilated room.
The unit comes with a small hose and eight outlet volumes of adjustable manifolds to facilitate ease of use.
Overall, the unit has a wide scope of applications and is perfect for aquariums, ponds, hydroponics, fish farms, and a lot more.
Pros
✅ The pump does not produce a lot of noise.
✅ Good output volume.
✅ Provides quality airflow.
✅ Compact and powerful.
Cons
❌ It’s not an ideal unit for bigger tanks.
The Final Verdict
The unit is ideal for small and mid-sized tanks and pools.
Best air pump for hydroponics: Buying guide
Though the best air pump for hydroponics of 2023 that we have listed above cover all that you need for your hydroponic garden if you plan to look into other options, make sure it has the features listed in this buying guide.
Size
It’s essential to pick an air pump that will meet your needs. Most gardeners recommend buying an air pump with a wattage equal to a gallon of nutrients solution you have. However, many others opine that an air pump that provides 500 to 600 cc of air per minute is also a good option.
If you are a commercial hydroponic gardener, you will require a more powerful pump.
Nozzle number
Some pumps have more nozzles than the other standard pumps available in the market. The number of nozzles you require will depend on the number of plants you want to grow. You can use different tubing lines for the various reservoirs with multiple nozzles.
Price
Though it’s never recommended to base your decision solely on the price factor, it is an essential point of consideration for your buying decision. However, if you come across two air pumps with similar features, opting for the cheaper one is wise.
Noise
This is another essential feature, especially if you are setting up your hydroponic garden at home. If the pump is extremely noisy, it will be annoying and lead to a disturbance at home. Thankfully not all air pumps are so loud. It’s essential to check the manufacturer information and choose an air pump that produces noise less than 45 decibels.
Warranty
Since these pumps are not inexpensive and are often a one-time investment, it’s vital to ensure that a warranty covers your product. The warranty will protect you and your pump in case of malfunctions.
How to set up a hydroponic air pump safely?
All air pumps are powered by electricity, and of course, hydroponics uses a lot of water. Thus it’s important to make sure two of their requirements are met if you buy a hydroponic air pump.
- You need to ensure a few things to keep your pump safe and hassle-free.
- It’s recommended to place the pump higher up than the reservoir so that water does not drip on the outer side of the tubing.
- Don’t plug the pump in the surge protector. Instead, use the wall outlet.
- One-way valves are ideal for keeping the water from backwashing on the side of the tubing and into the motor.
- Make sure the pump is placed in an area with good airflow to avoid overheating. You can also use a small fan to cool the unit.
Methods to keep the pump’s noise level low
If you have your pump near your bedroom or living room, the noise level will matter.
Thankfully, you can use a few methods to keep the noise level low.
- Get a bigger pump: It will get louder if the pump has to work hard to compress the air. In other words, a small pump running to its full potential will always be louder than a big pump running at half its capacity.
- Use a mat under the pump: A sound-absorbing mat will cut down on the noise. A few good options are a mouse pad, placemat, or a washcloth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What else do you need with a hydroponic air pump?
You will require airline tubing along with air stone. The airline tubing should be made from plastic material safe for garden use.
Should your pump be running always?
Yes. In most cases, your pump should be running at all times. This ensures that your garden is protected from algae and pathogens.
Do air pumps come with the required accessories?
No, in most cases, you will have to buy the required accessories you need.
Conclusion:
Indeed the number of hydroponic air pumps available in the market can be overwhelming initially. But the product listed here, along with the buying guide and faqs, will help you make an informed choice.
If you are not happy with this list of best air pump for hydroponics of 2023, then you can comment your favorite product below.
I will buy that and test it on my own set up and may include that as well in this page.
