Power Heads Are Better Than Air Pumps?

[ey2006]

Hi, I'm just wondering if Powerheads work better than standard air pumps? I'm currently using an air pump on my 29g tank.

Here is a description and picture of a powerhead I am considering purchasing: http/www.theaquariumshop.com.au/shopexd.asp?id=773

This is after reading this article on Hagen's site (they say Power Heads are better than Air Pumps):

http/www.hagen.com/uk/aquatic/info_sheet.cfm?CAT=1&INFO=38

Just wanted to get some opinions from people regarding this.

Cheers

 

[Torrean]

I don't know about undergravel filters but I would think that a powerhead would work a lot better than an air pump. It seems to me that it would creat more current allowing there to be more gas exchange at the surface. Not to mention the even distribution of temperature caused by the greater current in the tank. However air pumps look pretty. A stream of bubbles along the back wall is attractive to most people not to mention the fact that air pumps can be converted into sponge filters. THis is an interesting debate. I'm interested in seeing what others have to say on the issue.

 

[Matty]

I would say powerhead.

Powerheads do more to promote gas-exchange...all air pumps can do is break the surface of the water. Powerheads also provide more consistant temperatures throughout the aquarium, as well as they can improve filtration by keeping waste particles suspended until they can be picked up by the filter.

 

[Tolak]

It depends on the tank, and what you are trying to accomplish. Air pumps are great for sponge filters in fry tanks, or bio filtration in just about any tank. Powerheads provide more circulation, and can be used to power mechanical filters, something that is needed with messier fish such as large cichlids or plecs.

Powerheads will work better than air for driving an undergravel filter, but current technology has made undergravel filters pretty much obsolete. AquaClear powerheads are some of the better ones on the market, I have several with prefilters in growout tanks. I also have air driven sponge filters in most tanks to take care of bio filtration. It all depends on your individual setup.

 

[Dorkhedeos]

i would go with powerheads for anything except for a fry tank.

 

[Dubby]

Definitely go for the powerhead. No energy wasted in making bubbles