As many fish hobbyists understand, providing proper filtration for your fish’s tank is one of the most difficult and expensive aspects of aquarium care. While large tanks require large filters to clean the water, simple bubble filters will suffice for smaller tanks -- for example, those used for bettas and goldfish. Bubble filters are inexpensive and are much easier to install than traditional filters.
How Bubble Filters Work
Bubble filters work by using rising air bubbles to create water flow through the filter. An air stone forces air into the bottom of the filter unit, which flows up through a large-diameter tube toward the surface. The movement of the air draws water along with it, causing water from the tank to pass through one or more stages of filtration. Because these units do not rely on creating a strong vacuum, they do not require priming. If the power goes out, your bubble filter will come back on automatically when power returns.
Installing Your Bubble Filter
Installing a bubble filter is simple. First, load your filter media into the box per the manufacturer’s recommendation. Next, attach the output hose from your air stone to the intake valve on the filter. Submerge the bubble filter into one of the tank’s corners and turn the air stone on. Most keepers leave the pump working constantly, but you can cycle it on and off with a timer attached to the air stone if you wish.
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