What is a vibrator pump for a tropical fish aquarium?
April 24, 2009 by admin
Filed under Fish Tank Supplies
The same principle of make-and-break current operating in the common doorbell also applies in operating a rubber, leather, or plastic diaphragm which fits over the air chamber of the pump. As the diaphragm moves up and down, air is forced out through one-way valves.
Most diaphragm pumps have a low air pressure but an adequate air volume. They are usually equipped with a knob which controls the volume of air put out. Diaphragm pumps do not usually have so long a life as do cylinder pumps, nor are they so powerful. They are usually less expensive, and for the hobbyist with one or two small-to medium-sized tanks they are perfectly adequate. They have the advantage of no outside moving parts and do not give off any heat. Nor do they require any oiling or other care. Should they break down, it is usually necessary to return them to the manufacturer for repair. In many cases the guarantee specifies that opening the case voids the guarantee.
Another point of information about vibrator pumps: they must be placed on a firm yet resilient surface, not an unyielding one such as a wall, a table top, or a loose floor board. A sponge rubber pad makes an excellent mounting for a vibrator pump. Such material also helps to eliminate the hum which is an unfortunate feature of some vibrator pumps.
Some diaphragm pumps are very cheap, while others are comparatively expensive. In purchasing pumps, as with other items, you get what you pay for. The lower-priced pumps are not necessarily a better buy. Often they are cheap merchandise offered for sale at a low price. In order to compete, some manufacturers sacrifice quality and reliability so that they can offer a low price. Shop carefully before you purchase a pump, especially if you want it to provide long service. Consider only nationally advertised products.
Vibrator pumps require no care; cylinder pumps should be oiled regularly. Some vibrator air pump features an adjustable output of air, allowing you to control exactly how much air is released.
