Aquarium bubbler setups are popular among fish tank owners. They enhance the appearance of the fish tanks and improve their oxygen levels. The aquarium bubbler setup process is fairly simple and straightforward. You need the required components and have to attach them, which is easy.

If you are in a hurry here are our favorite aquarium bubbler setup products:

Image	Title	Why We Like	Rating
	NICREW LED Air Stone Disk	Best LED Air Stone		Check Price
	Pawfly 4 Inch Airstone Disc Bubbler	Best Disc Bubbler		Check Price
	Tetra Whisper Air Pump	Best Air Pump		Check Price
	Pawfly Aquarium Air Pump Accessories	Best Air Pump Accessories		Check Price
	Penn-Plax Airline Tubing For Aquariums	Best Air Line		Check Price

What Do You Need For An Aquarium Bubbler Setup?

1. Aquarium Bubbler Setup Airstone

The first thing that you need for an aquarium bubbler setup is a bubbler which is also called an airstone. It creates the actual bubbles in the water. There are different types of bubblers available. Some of them are circular and quite small, while the larger ones are rectangular or tube-shaped. A few of them may come with integrated LED lights for enhancing the aesthetics of your aquarium. Choose an aquarium bubbler as per your requirements. We have found the following bubblers to be very reliable and work well for our setup:

Wenshall 1.6″ Small Round Air Stones

The Wenshall Small Round Air Stones are a great “budget” option. They come with four (4) in a pack and come with a 3-way splitter so you can use two at a time. We recommend you use two now and save two for later after the first set gets dirty or if they begin to malfunction. We recommend these because they are simple, they are not too strong (bubbles are small, gentle, and consistent), and they are inexpensive.

NICREW Multi-Colored LED Air Stone Disk

If you want to bring a little “bling” to your aquarium then we recommend getting the NICREW Multi-Colored LED Aquarium Air Stone Disk. It comes with a built-in LED light in the center of the air stone. When the light hits the bubbles it creates an amazing effect that even your fish will appreciate! Think the “volcano” from Finding Nemo! LED is multi-colored and the air stone comes with a suction cup to anchor it to the bottom of the aquarium.

hygger Fish Tank Bubbler

If you are looking for a “top of the line” airstone then we recommend the hygger Aquarium Air Stone Kit. It comes in 2 inch or 4 inch, and each air stone kit comes with a control valve, check valve, tee connector, reducer, and 2 suction cups. This kit will ensure that you will be able to get the bubbles exactly how you want them and where you want the bubbler. It comes highly rated and we are confident that you would be happy with the product.

Pawfly 4-Inch Air Stone Disc Bubble Diffuser ASD-100

Pawfly 4-Inch Air Stone Disc Bubble Diffuser ASD-100 is an excellent item for medium to large aquarium bubbler setups. It is a 4-inch wide and 1-inch tall disc with a 12L/min jetting volume. The device improves the oxygen levels and circulation of a fish tank. You may use it in aquariums with a length between 15.7 and 39.4 inches. The air stone is recommended for aquarium bubbler setups with pumps that are rated from 3.2 LPM to 25 LPM. It will fit tubes with an inner diameter of 0.16 inches or 4 mm. There are three suction cups provided for holding the air stone in place. A smaller, 2-inch variant of Pawfly Air Stone is also available for compact aquarium bubbler setups.

Aqueon Multi-Color Flexible LED Bubble Wand Aquarium Light

If you are looking to add some color and flair to your aquarium bubbler setup, consider the Aqueon Multi-Color Flexible LED Bubble Wand. It is not an airstone but a 14-inch long bubble wand. Instead of creating bubbles in a small area, it can do the same throughout the aquarium. There are integrated LEDs that make the tank colorful. The wand is flexible and can be bent for easy installation. It comes with suction cups for securing it to the tank. Most hobbyists fill find it attractive. A 21-inch long variant of the Aqueon Multi-Color Flexible LED Bubble Wand is also available and will suit large aquarium bubbler setups.

2. Aquarium Bubbler Setup Air Pump

The second requirement for an aquarium bubbler setup is an air pump. An airstone can create bubbles, but it requires an air pump to supply air for the same. Some bubbler packages may include an air pump, although others may require you to purchase one separately. If you already have an air pump installed in your fish tank, then you don’t need to buy it.

Here are some air pumps that we recommend:

Tetra Whisper Air Pump

The Tetra Whisper Air Pump is a classic air pump. Many people purchase this pump and it does not disappoint. It is budget friendly and comes in many sizes so chances are you will find the exact one needed for your aquarium whatever size it is. The only comments we hear from people who purchase the Tetra Whisper Air Pump is that it creates a lot of air, but it is sometimes noisy and does not come with air tubing or other accessories such as control valves or “T” fittings.

Uniclife Aquarium Air Pump

The Uniclife Aquarium Air Pump is another great option. It comes highly rated and is quieter than the Tetra Air Pump. In addition, if you are looking for a complete kit including airstones this is a perfect purchase for you because it comes with airstones, “T” fittings, check valves, and air tubing – everything you need for a complete aquarium bubbler setup!

hygger Aquarium Air Pump

If you are a looking for a quiet pump then the hygger Aquarium Air Pump is a good choice for you. It it is specified to stay under 30 db even when it is at full strength. It also comes with an adjustable dial so you can set the air flow to exactly what you are looking for on your aquarium setup.

hygger Quiet Mini Air Pump for Aquarium 1.5 Watt Oxygen Fish Air Pump for 1-15 Gallon Fish Tank HG-811

hygger Quiet Mini Air Pump HG-811 is an excellent option for small aquarium bubbler setups. It is a unique device that employs a thin piezoelectric ceramic plate instead of a motor. The operation of the pump is quieter as compared to motor-based models from hygger. You can use it in fish tanks with capacities ranging from 1 to 15 gallons. As it consumes only 1.5 watts, it is quite efficient while providing a flow rate of 420ml/minute or approximately 6.6 GPH. Additionally, you get a power adapter, a 0.9-inch air stone, and a 3.6 ft long air tube in the package for completing your aquarium bubbler setup. The hygger Quiet Mini Air Pump HG-811 comes in black or white colors.

VIVOSUN 285 GPH Battery Air Pump AC/DC

VIVOSUN 285 GPH Battery Air Pump AC/DC is a well-recommended option for aquarium bubbler setups. It is a unique device that can run on AC as well as DC through a 5V, 4,400mAh battery. The device is suitable for tanks when a power source is unavailable due to an outage or other factors. There are two outlets on the air pump, each of which can provide a flow rate of 40GPH, with a total maximum flow rate of 80 GPH. An LCD screen on the device provides information and allows you to choose from 18 adjustable pressure levels as required. The package includes a pair of air stones and tubing to get you started on your aquarium bubbler setup.

3. Aquarium Bubbler Setup Accessories

You will also need a few accessories for an aquarium bubbler setup. These include airline tubing, one-way air valves, and regular air valves. Most aquarium bubbler kits may come with these accessories. If yours does not, then you will have to purchase these accessories separately.

Here are some of our recommended accessory kits for an aquarium bubbler setup if the air pump or air stone does not already include it:

Pawfly Aquarium Air Pump Accessories

If your air pump or air stone doesn’t come with all of the airline tubing or if you need to replace a few parts then Pawfly has a great Aquarium Air Pump Accessories Kit available that comes with basically everything you need to complete a setup. It includes airline tubing, check valves, “T” and union fittings, suction cups, and even a couple of small airstones.

Y-Axis 49 Pcs Aquarium Air Pump Accessories

The Y-Axis 49 Pcs Aquarium Air Pump Accessories set is an excellent package for aquarium bubbler setups. It comes with most of the accessories required for improving the oxygen levels of your fish tank. You get one 4-way airline splitter, two air control valves and four non-return check valves for air pump safety, ten suction cups for securing the aquarium bubbler setup, and thirty airline connectors of different shapes that include cross, Y, T, L, and I-shaped connectors. The package also includes a pair of air stones, eliminating the need to purchase them separately. Only an air pump and tubing may be required in addition to this accessory kit.

Penn-Plax Airline Tubing for Aquariums

Penn-Plax Airline Tubing for Aquariums is a suitable choice for buyers who need tubing for their aquarium bubbler setup. It is made from durable and flexible plastic and won’t kink over time. The tubing has a standard 3/16 inch diameter and can be used for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums. Its clear shape makes it suitable for most setups, while the non-toxic materials ensure the safety of fishes. You can use the tubing for your aquarium bubbler setup without any issues.

Aquarium Bubbler Setup Process

Once you have all the required components at hand, you can begin setting up the bubbler.

How do I install an aquarium bubbler Setup?

The first step is to install the air pump. It can be placed outside the aquarium, under its stand, or in a cabinet. While placing it, make sure that there is adequate space for wires and tubing as well as enough air circulation around the pump. After placing the air pump, attach airline tubing to its outflow valve.

Next, attach the regular air valve to the tubing coming from the pump. It will allow you to regulate the amount of air that flows into the airstone. Use a sealing mechanism to prevent any leakage of air from the joint between the valve and tubing.

Attach some more tubing to the free end of the regular air valve. Then install the one-way valve into the tubing. This valve is designed to prevent the air or water from flowing into the air pump in case of power or equipment failure. Make sure that the orientation of the valve is towards the airstone. Seal the joint to avert any leakage. Then attach more tubing to the other end of the one-way valve.

One important note is that you really have to have a one-way check valve installed if you place your air pump under the top of your aquarium water. If you place the air pump under the top of the aquarium and there is no check valve you will risk allowing the water to “siphon” out of the aquarium upon a pump malfunction and it will cause a flood. If you do not have a check valve or just don’t feel like taking the risk then install the air pump above the level of the aquarium water.

Now, we need to attach the airstone to the tubing coming from the one-way valve. Again, use a secure sealing method for preventing the air from leaking. Some airstones may have to be soaked for up to thirty minutes before they can be attached to the tubing. Then place the bubbler stone at the desired position in the tank. Most airstones are heavy and will settle down on the bed of the aquarium. A few of them, especially tube-shaped ones, may come with suction cups for installation. Place the airstone at such a position so that it improves the aesthetics of the tank without obstructing the view. If your airstone has wires for LED lights, then connect the same as well.

After all the connections have been made, switch on the air pump and adjust the airflow using the regular valve as desired. Your aquarium bubbler setup is now complete!

Aquarium filter pumps are a great option for the hobbyists who want to customize the filtration system of their fish tanks. These pumps can be used with custom or passive filters that don’t come with built-in pumps. They ensure adequate water flow for keeping the aquarium healthy. If you are looking for the best aquarium filter pump, then here are a few highly-recommended options for your fish tanks.

Uniclife NP-600 80 GPH (300L/H, 4W) Submersible Water Pump

Uniclife NP-600 submersible water pump is a popular choice of the buyers who want the best aquarium filter pump. It has a maximum flow rate of 80GPH and can lift water to a height of 2.6ft (0.8m). A knob allows you to adjust the flow rate of the water as required. The pump consumes only 4Watts of power, makes very little noise when in operation, and won’t cause any disturbance. Its small size allows you to hide the pump behind plants or decorations. It comes with 8.5mm and 13mm nozzles for added convenience. Uniclife water pumps are also available in more powerful variants.

VIVOSUN 210GPH Submersible Pump (800L/H, 8W)

VIVOSUN 210GPH Submersible Pump is a great freshwater option when it comes to the best aquarium filter pump. It has a maximum flow rate of 210GPH and will be suitable for small to medium fish tanks. It can lift water up to 3.3feet and consumes only 8Watts of power. The pump has a knob that enables you to adjust the flow rate for controlling water pressure. Its compact dimensions make it easy to hide the pump from view. A pre-filter screen traps particles and reduces maintenance frequency. VIVOSUN submersible pumps are also available in 130GPH and 400GPH variants.

JAJALE Submersible Water Pump DB-300 66GPH

If you own a small aquarium, then the JAJALE DB-300 will be the best aquarium filter pump for you. The pump uses a corrosion-resistant stainless steel impeller shaft and durable ABS housing. It is designed for small fish tanks and has a maximum flow rate of 66GPH with a lift height of 1.9feet. The flow rate of the pump can be adjusted using a knob. There are three suction cups provided for keeping the pump in place. More powerful aquarium water pumps are also available from JAJALE for the hobbyists who own large fish tanks.

Uniclife 550GPH Submersible Water Pump

When it comes to the best aquarium filter pump, the Uniclife 550GPH submersible water pump is an excellent product. It can be used as a submersible or an in-line pump. The pump has a maximum lift height of 6.5 feet and a flow rate of 550GPH (400GPH at 4ft lift height). It will be suitable for a wide range of fish tanks. The pump uses high-quality ceramic shafts and bearings for exceptional durability and efficiency. You can use the Uniclife 550GPH aquarium pump in both freshwater and marine water setups.

boxtech Submersible Water Pump 660GPH

Aquarium owners who are looking for the best aquarium filter pump can consider the boxtech submersible water pump. It is made of high-grade materials and is suitable for freshwater and saltwater tanks. The pump has a maximum flow rate of 660GPH and can lift water to a height of 8ft while consuming 45W power. It will be suitable for medium to large aquariums. You get three different-sized nozzles in the package for added convenience. boxtech submersible water pumps are also available in 265GPH, 528GPH, and 1056GPH variants.

Small canister filters are a suitable option for low-capacity aquariums. They are generally installed outside the tank and don’t interfere with the décor of the tank. You can easily hide them from plain sight. They are equally good at cleaning water and are easier to maintain.

What are the Best Small Canister Filters?

Here are the ten best small canister filters that will be suitable for low-capacity fish tanks. If you have decided to go with a small aquarium, you might find one of these suitable for your requirements.

1. OASE Indoor Aquatics Filtosmart Thermo 100

OASE Indoor Aquatics Filtosmart Thermo 100 is a versatile product among the ten best small canister filters. It not only filters the water but also comes with an integrated heater for maintaining it at an optimum temperature. The filter employs a two-stage process for mechanical and biological filtration. Its valves have adjustment knobs for controlling the flow rate of water. A diffuser and spray bar creates surface movement and oxygenates the water. FiltosmartThermo 100 is easy to clean and maintain and has a self-priming function for effortless starting. It can be used in up to 30-gallon aquariums.

2. Marineland Magniflow 160 Canister Filter

Marineland Magniflow 160 is a good choice for the buyers who are searching for the ten best small canister filters. It can filter 160 gallons of water per hour and will be adequate for up to 30-gallon fish tanks. There are multiple filtration media used in it for cleaning water and removing impurities. It has filter foam pads for catching dirt and waste, a polishing filter pad for removing fine debris, black diamond carbon for removing odors and discoloration, and bio-filter balls and ceramic rings for promoting the growth of bio spires. Marineland Magniflow 160 canister filter is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater applications.

3. Finnex PX-360 Compact Canister Aquarium Filter

Finnex PX-360 is a compact option among the ten best small canister filters. It uses a 90GPH sealed motor with low operational noise. The filter is suitable for up to 25-gallon freshwater and saltwater aquariums. Its removable media trays allow you to maintain the filter effortlessly. It comes prepopulated with filtration media that include activated carbon floss pad, ceramic rings, and sponge foam. They clean the water and keep your fish healthy. A spray bar ensures that the water in the aquarium flows naturally. A hanger allows you to hang the Finnex PX-360 canister filter on the tank.

4. Zoo Med Nano 10 External Canister Filter

Zoo Med Nano 10 is one of the ten best small canister filters available today. It is a compact filter that will be ideal for nano fish tanks having a capacity of up to 10 gallons. The device has a filter sponge for mechanical filtration, activated carbon for removing chemicals and odors, and ceramic media for biological filtration. A spray bar improves aeration for increasing the amount of oxygen dissolved in the water. Its small-design ensures that it requires very little installation space while allowing for effortless maintenance. You can use it in freshwater and marine tanks.

5. Fluval 107 Performance Canister Filter 120Vac

When it comes to the ten best small canister filters, Fluval 107 Performance Canister Filter is a high-quality product. It can filter 145 US gallons of water per hour and has adequate filtration capacity for 10 to 30-gallon aquariums. The filter can perform mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. There are foam pads, sponges, activated carbon, and filtration media provided in the package. A handle enables you to remove the media stack easily for replacing the filtration media. It is almost silent while in operation and won’t cause any disturbance in the room.

6. Sunsun Tech’n’Toy HW-603B 106 GPH 3-Stage External Canister Filter

Sunsun Tech’n’Toy HW-603B canister filter is a popular choice of the buyers who search for the ten best small canister filters. It is equipped with a 6W pump that yields a flow rate of 106 gallons per hour. The filter is capable of cleaning fish tanks having a capacity of up to 20 gallons. Filter pads are pre-installed while there is space available for adding filtration media such as activated carbon, bio-balls, or ceramic rings. It can perform mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. A spray bar is provided for ensuring natural water movement and improving aeration.

7. EHEIM Classic 150 External Canister Filter

EHEIM Classic 150 is a small-sized option among the ten best small canister filters. It has a flow rate of 40 gallons per hour and will be ideal for up to 15-gallon fish tanks. The filter comes with filter sponges and filter media for cleaning the water in your aquarium and keeping fishes healthy. It is easy to clean and maintain, and its pump has a permo-elastic silicone sealing ring for closing the filter effortlessly. A spray bar assists in circulating water and improving oxygen levels. EHEIM Classic canister filter is also available in 66 and 92-gallon variants.

8. Penn Plax Cascade 500

Penn Plax Cascade 500 is one of the best-selling items on the list of the ten best small canister filters. It has a flow rate of 115 gallons per hour and will be adequate for up to 30-gallon aquariums. There are two media baskets for customizing the filter as per your fish tank setup. Its valves support 360° rotation and provide additional maneuvering room for easy installation. A push-button primer allows you to start the filter effortlessly after cleaning. It comes with a spray bar that ensures optimum water circulation.

9. OASE Indoor Aquatics Filtosmart 60

The OASE Indoor Aquatics Filtosmart 60 filter is an alternate choice from the company. It doesn’t come with a heater and will be ideal for aquariums that don’t need the same. The filter can be used with fish tanks having a capacity of up to 20 gallons. It makes use of a 2-stage process for mechanical and biological filtration. It gets rid of waste and debris and keeps your aquatic pets healthy. A diffuser and spray bar create surface water movement and aerate the water. OASE Indoor Aquatics Filtosmart 60 is suitable for freshwater and marine aquariums.

10. API Filstar XP S

API Filstar XP S canister filter is a compact yet powerful offering that may appeal to the buyers who are searching for the ten best small canister filters. Despite its small size, it is suitable for up to 45-gallon fish tanks. It uses a 3-stage process for mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration. Cleaning and maintaining the API Filstar XP S canister filter is effortless while its self-priming feature allows easy operation. It comes with quick-disconnect valves that are leak-free. You can use it with freshwater and saltwater aquariums.

What Are Small Canister Filters Good For?

Small canister filters are generally suitable for tanks up to 30 gallons, but a few of them can also be used with aquariums that hold 45 to 50 gallons of water. Their advantages are promoting hobbyists to switch to a small canister filter from a power filter.

What are the Benefits of Small Canister Filters?

Here are a few benefits of small canister filters as compared to their power counterparts. They make a case for these compact yet powerful devices.

High Flow Rate

Canister filters, even small ones, have a higher flow rate as compared to power filters, generally expressed as GPH or gallons per hour. They can maintain a relatively large or heavily populated tank better than the latter. Because of their higher flowrate, small canister filters can clean more gallons of water in a specific time compared to power filters.

Accommodate More Filtration Media

Small canister filters can accommodate more filtration media as compared to power filters. The former have multiple compartments for media, while most models of the latter may only have a single compartment. You can add activated charcoal and biological and chemical filtration media to a small canister filter, while a power filter may or may not allow the same. More filtration media ensures a healthier living environment for the aquatic life in the fish tank and increases their lifespan.

Take Less Space

Despite their performance, small canister filters have a compact build and take minimal space. You can easily hide them from view by placing them below the aquarium stand or in a cupboard. The smaller variants are a few inches tall and can be concealed from plain sight without any effort.

No Aesthetic Impact

Small canister filters don’t impact the aesthetic appearance of the aquarium. A power filter is generally hanged on one of the walls of a fish tank. It can be an eyesore while also taking up space that could otherwise be utilized for decorations or providing fish more living area. On the other hand, small canister filters are meant to be placed externally. They neither occupy any space inside the aquarium nor visually impact its looks.

Quiet Operation

Most small canister filters run as quiet, if not quieter, than power filters. You will not hear the humming of the pump, which tends to irritate some individuals. They can be beneficial if the aquarium will be installed in an office or work area. Individuals will not be distracted or disturbed by the humming of the pump and can work in quiet.

Easy Maintenance

Small canister filters may make it easier to maintain a fish tank. They may have the capability to drain the aquarium automatically. You won’t have to siphon the water for changing it. This will make aquarium maintenance slightly convenient.

What are the Disadvantages of a Canister Filter?

While there are many benefits of small canister filters, they have a few disadvantages as well. They are generally more expensive as compared to power filters. Also, as their flow rate is higher, the media in small canister filters will have to be replaced more frequently. However, their pros outweigh their cons, making a case for them in most scenarios.