Is It Essential?

[MermaidMel]

I have a Hydor Ario 2 in one of my 22g tanks
I don't have one in the other 22g tank - is it essential?
I find all air pumps noisy, even the 'silent' hydor!

 

[nukeonekitty]

They are not necessary at all. Just make sure your filter is disturbing the water's surface. This does more of aeration than a bubbler will.

 

[chibi]

Nope. Just make sure your filter makes some ripples on the surface to make sure crap doesn't build up on the surface.

 

[MermaidMel]

They are not necessary at all. Just make sure your filter is disturbing the water's surface. This does more of aeration than a bubbler will.

By disturbing the water's surface, does this mean my outlet has to be above the water's surface? It's presently under the water's surface, hence not making a huge impact and just gently flowing back into the aquarium.

 

[vinylman]

No, the outlet doesn't have to be above the water line. If you can angle it upwards so it ripples the surface, that will be fine. If you can't, then you may have to have it above the water line, but that may be too noisy.