Using a higher powered air pump for a smaller tank

[Jebus]

Well, basicially every air pump ive gotten is too weak to power a sponge filter and an air stone at the same time, so i was wondering if i got a filter for a 20 gallon tank (mine is 10 gallons), would it be ok if i use a regulator?

 

[jaime007]

i would have thought so. i dont think theres a reason y u carnt

 

[Link]

Don't worry about what size tank an airpump is suited for. It's just a guide to help new people in the hobby select an airpump.
Think of it this way. You want to operate one airstone in your ten gallon tank. So you buy a pump for a ten gallon tank. If you then take out the airstone and move the pump to a 100 gallon tank the airstone will still work the same.
It's best to have a pump working flat out than having a larger pump turned down. That creates back pressure on the diaphragm and it will make it split.
Just get the next size pump up in the range. Get yourself a gang valve. It's like two taps. The pump connects to one end and then the airstone, filter etc run off the taps. You turn the taps up or down to regulate the flow. Job done.
I haven't replaced a diaphragm in around five years using this method

 

[corrosive]

My air pump is feking huge lol its like 10-11 inch's long lol, and can power 4 things perfectly fine. Im not sure what size tank the air pump is made for though LOL, i have it running on my 20g tank, with it on as low as it can go lol.