Air Pump (Eheim Air200)

Setup

Placement

Proper placement of the Eheim Air200 air pump is essential for optimal aeration and noise reduction:

• Location: Place the air pump on a stable, flat surface above the water level to prevent backflow. Use a check valve in the airline to prevent water from siphoning back into the pump.
• Noise Reduction: Position the air pump on a soft surface, such as a foam pad or rubber mat, to minimize vibrations and noise.

Installation Instructions

1. Unboxing and Inspection:

   • Carefully unbox the Eheim Air200 and inspect all parts for damage. Ensure all components, including the air pump, air stones, and tubing, are included.

2. Connecting the Airline Tubing:

   • Cut the airline tubing to the desired length, ensuring it is long enough to reach from the air pump to the air stones in the aquarium.
   • Attach one end of the tubing to the air pump outlet and secure it with a check valve to prevent water backflow.

3. Attaching Air Stones:

   • Connect the other end of the tubing to the air stones. Place the air stones in the desired locations within the aquarium to ensure even distribution of air bubbles.

4. Power Connection:

   • Plug in the air pump and turn it on. Adjust the airflow using the control knob on the pump to achieve the desired bubble rate.

Settings

Adjustable Output

The Eheim Air200 air pump features adjustable airflow to suit different aquarium sizes and aeration needs:

• Low Setting: Suitable for small tanks or low aeration needs.
• Medium Setting: Ideal for most standard-sized aquariums, providing adequate oxygenation.
• High Setting: Best for large tanks or heavily stocked aquariums requiring significant aeration.

Timer Settings

To maintain a balanced aquarium environment, the Eheim Air200 air pump can be set on a timer:

• Nighttime Operation: Schedule the air pump to run during the night when the CO2 system is off, ensuring adequate oxygen levels for fish and other aquatic life.

Maintenance

Regular Cleaning

To maintain optimal performance, regular cleaning of the Eheim Air200 and its components is essential:

• Air Stones: Remove and clean the air stones monthly to prevent clogging. Soak them in a mild bleach solution, rinse thoroughly, and let them air dry before reinstallation.
• Airline Tubing: Inspect and clean the airline tubing periodically to remove any algae buildup or blockages.

Inspection

• Visual Inspection:
  • Regularly inspect the air pump, airline tubing, and air stones for signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn or damaged components promptly.
• Filter Check:
  • Some air pumps have internal filters. Check and clean or replace these filters as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure efficient operation.

Usage Schedule

Timer Settings

• Nighttime Aeration:
  • Program the air pump to run during the night, typically for 8-10 hours, to provide continuous oxygenation when the CO2 system is off. This helps maintain a healthy balance in the aquarium and supports the respiration needs of fish and beneficial bacteria.

Additional Tips

Noise Reduction

• Positioning: Ensure the air pump is placed on a stable, vibration-absorbing surface to reduce noise. Using a rubber mat or foam pad can significantly minimize operational noise.
• Airline Routing: Avoid sharp bends or kinks in the airline tubing to maintain smooth airflow and reduce strain on the pump.

Emergency Preparedness

• Backup Air Pump:
  • Consider having a backup air pump available to ensure continuous aeration in case the primary pump fails. This is especially important in heavily stocked or sensitive aquariums.

Enhancing Efficiency

• Check Valve:
  • Always use a check valve in the airline tubing to prevent water from back-siphoning into the air pump, which can damage the pump and create potential safety hazards.

By adhering to these detailed guidelines, you can ensure your Eheim Air200 air pump operates efficiently, providing consistent and effective aeration for a healthy aquarium environment.