The 10 Best Aerator Pumps
This wiki has been updated 19 times since it was first published in February of 2019. An aerator pump can be used to supply oxygen to various systems around your home. They can, among other things, help beneficial bacteria thrive in your septic tank, so waste is properly broken down; add air to your pond’s water for healthy fish and plants; and even keep a bucket of minnows alive until you need them for bait. We've ranked them here for quality, ease of use, and price. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. HiBlow HP 80
2. Marine Metal 110
3. Attwood Tsunami T1200
Editor's Notes
February 25, 2021:
As all of our choices from our last round of updates were still great selections for this category, it was a relatively simple round of updates that resulted in no major changes to our list, in terms of new additions or omissions. Determining that the last editor for this list did a good job of including a variety of pumps that’re suitable for a host of applications, we ascertained that the best thing to do was simply leave the list intact, and wait until our next round of updates to see if any new exciting options have come to market by that time.
It’s important to note that, while all our selections are unified by their basic purpose, designs in this category vary drastically, so you’ll want to make sure that you select one that’s suitable for your specific application. So, while the Blue Diamond ET 80 might get the job done in your septic tank, the battery-powered Marine Metal Bubble Box – which is intended for use in small live wells – will make a much better implement in your tackle box. The solar-powered Sunsbell Kit is the way you want to go to outfit that off-grid koi pond you’ve always dreamed about.
If you’re investigating this purchase in the interest of oxygenating your hydroponic reservoir, the Airmax PondAir 2 is a durable option worth considering for small setups, and for larger applications, a pricier model like the HiBlow HP 80 might be something you want to think about. The HP 80 might be oversized if you’re just going to aerate your plant food, but if you hook up an adapter to it so you can feed multiple drip lines, it can allow for some pretty cool options — like running a stone to each bucket in a drip system so your plant’s roots have a steady supply of fresh air.
April 18, 2019:
An aerator pump is a vital tool in keeping the inhabitants of various systems healthy and thriving, and they do so by sending a supply of oxygen. When it comes to your outdoor pond, it’s hard to go wrong with several of the choices on our list, including the Airmax PondAir 2, which gets the job done efficiently and can last for years. Or, for a solar solution, look to the Sunsbell Kit, which comes with its own mini solar panel that can be adjusted to the optimal angle. If you’re just looking to keep some bait alive until your next fishing trip, the Marine Metal Bubble Box is a convenient, portable selection. No matter which you select, be sure it provides the appropriate amount of power for your size of pond or aquarium.
For a device that will keep your septic tank oxygenated and functioning well, check out either the Hi-Blow HP 80 or the Blue Diamond ET 80, both of which can handle a standard, 500-gallon system and are safety certified.
If you have any doubts regarding how to properly set up your septic system's components, you should hire a licensed plumber or other qualified professional. When using an aerator pump outdoors, it’s recommended that you use proper housing to protect it from the elements.
4. Airmax PondAir 2
5. Johnson Pumps 38502
6. Hygger 10W
7. Blue Diamond ET 80
8. Aquascape 75000
9. Sunsbell Kit
10. Marine Metal Bubble Box
After deciding that the pen was mightier than the pliers, Canadian electrical contractor William Rhoda abandoned his career and headed back to college, where he majored in marketing and advertising and won a scholarship along the way to earning a diploma in creative communications. His past career landed him a depth of knowledge in tools and hardware, while his current career schooled him in audio, video and camera equipment. During his leisure time, he’s learned lots about outdoor gear, and years of tiresome backyard maintenance have taught him all about pools and hot tubs. His recreational pursuits include rest, relaxation and revolutionary action, and his roommate’s a hairless cat.