Air Bubbler gone crazy

[theotheragentm]

I have a 55-gallon tank that is new. I have been running an HOB filter so that was aerating the water. I plugged in my air pump, as I will be removing the HOB filter and will require aeration of the water. This pump is only designed for a 10-gallon tank, but it shoots out bubbles like crazy. It's a jet of bubbles. Is there anything I can do to limit it so it's not a mad rush of bubbles? I've tried the long air stones and bubbles come racing out the whole length of that thing. This bubbler is just producing huge amounts of bubbles and fast.

 

[hc8719]

bubbles wont really hurt anything, unless you have really sensitive fish

 

[Lonewolfblue]

I use this, and you might be able to get it at the lfs as well.

http://www.bigalsonline.com/BigAlsUS/ctl3684/cp18282/si1382475/cl0/pennplaxloktite2waygangvalve

Also, if you are not using both outputs, just close one off and adjust the flow on the one you are using.

 

[richiestang_78]

Yeah I have a old valve from the late 70s which Im glad since it seems the new ones are mostly plastic.

 

[Devilishturtles]

Gang Valves can be found at any pet store (walmart even carries them) for really cheap. That's the way I would go.

 

[Lonewolfblue]

One other concern I have. Might also get a check valve inline as well. That way, if the power goes off for some reason, you won't have water going the opposite direction and into the air pump. Would be bad news.

http://www.bigalsonline.com/BigAlsUS/ctl3684/cp18285/si1380882/cl0/redseacheckvalve

 

[severum mama]

When I used an air pump/airstone on my crayfish tank (RIP Pinchy) I bought an air pump that came with one. But, I seem to remember that you can get them even cheaper than that at Petsmart or another chain store.

 

[MyCatsDrool]

tie a knot in the airline.

 

[tropicalfish]

If I were you, I would get a gang valve that has one more outlet than what you need. Instead of restricting the flow, bleed air out, as this will extend the life of your airpump.

 

[SeanMurphy]

If I were you, I would get a gang valve that has one more outlet than what you need. Instead of restricting the flow, bleed air out, as this will extend the life of your airpump.

or for the duct-tape solution, if this is only going to be temporary, put a pinhole or two in the air line near the pump, you can always trim off the holed inch or so later so you don't waste a lot of line.