How to Use a Pump As a Powerhead

A pump can easily be used as an aquarium powerhead. Adding a submersible water pump into an aquarium can improve oxygenation and water quality. The increased water flow provided by the pump helps eliminate low current areas and increase the amount of waste and debris that can be filtered out of the tank before it has a chance to settle on the bottom of the aquarium.

• 1

  Choose a pump with adequate water flow for the tank you intend to use it in. A pump with a flow rate of 120 gallons per hour is optimal for most 20-gallon aquariums. Increase the size of the pump for larger aquariums.

• 2

  Select a location in your aquarium to place the submersible water pump. An ideal location would be in a back corner and near the top, where it will not obstruct your view into the fish tank.

• 3

  Use the algae pad to clean the aquarium glass in the location you plan to place the water pump.

• 4

  Attach the suction cup bracket to the water pump. Most submersible water pumps will come with a suction cup bracket included.

• 5

  Attach the water diffuser to the pump's output nozzle (usually included with the pump). This will allow you to angle and direct the flow of the water through the aquarium.

• 6

  Place the submersible water pump into the fish tank and firmly press the suction cup bracket end of the pump against the aquarium glass in your desired location. Make sure to position the pump in such a way as to not spray water out of the aquarium.

• 7

  Plug the submersible water pump's electrical chord into an electrical outlet. Most pumps will turn on automatically when plugged in; however, some will have a separate on/off switch. If so, turn the pump on. Make sure water is flowing sufficiently from it, and angle the diffuser to direct the flow of water in the direction you desire.