6 best pump motor for aquariums

A pump motor for aquariums is a crucial component in maintaining a healthy and functioning aquatic environment.These pumps are specifically designed for use in aquariums and are essential for several reasons:

  1. Water Circulation: Pump motors are used to circulate water within the aquarium. Proper water circulation helps in distributing heat, oxygen, and nutrients evenly throughout the tank. It also prevents the formation of dead spots where debris and waste can accumulate.

  2. Filtration: Many aquarium pumps are integrated with filtration systems. They help move water through mechanical, biological, and chemical filters, which remove impurities, toxins, and waste from the water, keeping it clean and safe for aquatic life.

  3. Aeration: Oxygenation of the water is crucial for the health of fish and other aquatic organisms. Some aquarium pump motors are designed to create bubbles or water movement, which increases oxygen exchange at the water's surface. This is especially important in tanks with a high fish population or in heavily planted aquariums.

  4. Flow Control: Pump motors often come with adjustable flow rates. This allows aquarium owners to control the strength and direction of water movement within the tank, which is important for creating a suitable environment for various aquatic species.

  5. Water Features: In outdoor water gardens and ponds, pump motors are used to power water features such as fountains, waterfalls, and spitters. These features not only add aesthetic appeal but also help with aeration and water circulation in larger aquatic setups.

  6. Size and Capacity: Pump motors for aquariums come in various sizes and capacities to suit different tank sizes and water requirements. It's important to choose a pump motor that matches the volume of your aquarium or water feature.

  7. Quiet Operation: Many modern aquarium pump motors are designed to operate quietly to avoid disturbing the aquatic life and the aquarium owner. Noise can be a concern, especially for indoor aquariums.

  8. Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient pump motors are available to help reduce electricity consumption while maintaining proper water circulation and filtration.

When selecting a pump motor for your aquarium or water garden, it's essential to consider factors such as the size of your setup, the specific needs of your aquatic inhabitants, and your filtration requirements. It's also advisable to follow manufacturer recommendations and regularly maintain your pump to ensure it operates effectively and extends its lifespan.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best pump motor for aquariums on the market
  

Water Pump, Mini DC 12V Brushless Submersible Water Pump 350L/H JT-180A-12 Brushless Motor for Fish Tank Water Cooling

Wal front

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Environmental shell material is of high temperature resistance. The use of high-strength wear-resistant rotor, strong, efficient and long service life. Enhance sealing degree, good waterproof performance. High quality damping suction cup can reduce the noise. Can be used for computer water cooling, fountains, handicrafts, coffee machine, drinking machine, tea maker, wine dispenser, shower, tooth washer, water heater pressurization, hot water cycle, and other products.



Specification:

Condition: 100% Brand New

Model: JT-180A-12

Motor: Brushless Motor

Voltage: 12V

Current: 0.36A

Flow: 350L/H

Start Voltage: 4.5V

Hydraulic Head: 2.5M

Noise: Less than 35DB

Temperature: -40℃ ~100℃

Suction Caliber: 10mm

Exhaust Caliber: 19mm

Weight: Approx. 92g / 3.2oz



Package List:

1 * Pump

  • High Efficiency Motor -- Environmental shell material is of high temperature resistance, strong power and high lift, high efficiency motor for energy saving.
  • Wear-Resistant Rotor -- The use of high-strength wear-resistant rotor, strong, efficient and long service life, long life span and corrosion resistance.
  • Waterproof Performance -- Enhance sealing degree, good waterproof performance, suction cup and power cord. Long enough cord for easy installation.
  • Damping Suction Cup -- High quality damping suction cup can reduce the noise, ideal for large-sized aquariums, ponds and water gardens etc. Circulate and aerate the water.
  • Wide Application -- Can be used for computer water cooling, fountains, handicrafts, coffee machine, drinking machine, tea maker, wine dispenser, shower, tooth washer, water heater pressurization, hot water cycle, and other products.

User questions & answers

Question: What is the flow rate at the max head height
Answer: If the manufacturer is not bragging, then assume the item is imported. Your "question" appears to be more of a rude comment than a question.

Iwaki MD70RLT Water Pump (Japanese Motor)

IWAKI

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Iwaki MD-70RLT Water Pump Japanese pressure rated water pump. 1 inch MPT inlet and outlet. 1/4 HP Motor output. 3400 RPM motor speed. 120 volt 2.80 amps. Max flow 25.6 GPM. 1440 GPH at 6 feet of head pressure Max head 31.8 ft. Max system pressure 21.33 psi.

  • Iwaki MD-70RLT Water Pump
  • Japanese pressure rated water pump.
  • 1 inch MPT inlet and outlet.
  • 120 volt 2.80 amps.
  • Max head 31.8 ft.

Eheim AEH1262310 Universal Aquarium Water Pump

TopDawg Pet Supply

Based on 33 reviews Check latest price

Product description

World-renowned aquarium pump boasts exceptional quality and reliable performance. Epoxy filled, hermetically sealed, low energy consumption motors result in silent, efficient operation while surpassing the highest safety standards. Features removable integrated pre-filter for convenient installation.; Run internally or externally in fresh or saltwater. Barb I/O fittings with built-in twist clamp.

  • World-renowned aquarium pump boasts exceptional quality and reliable performance
  • Epoxy filled, hermetically sealed, low energy consumption motors result in silent, efficient operation while surpassing the highest safety standards
  • Run internally or externally in fresh or saltwater; Barb I/O fittings with built-in twist clamp

User questions & answers

Question: Want to use for aquarium water changes. Will this pull water from 5 gallon jugs on floor and push the water into a 40 gallon tank on 3 foot stand
Answer: Its a 900gph pump.
Question: volts
Answer: The versions we are selling are the 60 Hz units for the USA market.
Question: This Eheim AEH1262310 Universal Aquarium Air Pump is it a 310 gal/hr or 900 gal/hr pump. I have a 1260 which is 600 gal/hr, need a little more flow
Answer: 0 gph
Question: is this 50hz or 60hz
Answer: Total length is 11.5 inches. Length from after the “Part that flexes” is 10.5 inches.

Eheim AEH1260310 Universal Aquarium Water Pump

TopDawg Pet Supply

Based on 25 reviews Check latest price

Product description

World-renowned aquarium pump boasts exceptional quality and reliable performance. Epoxy filled, hermetically sealed, low energy consumption motors result in silent, efficient operation while surpassing the highest safety standards. Features removable integrated pre-filter for convenient installation.; Run internally or externally in fresh or saltwater. Barb I/O fittings with built-in twist clamp.

  • World-renowned aquarium pump boasts exceptional quality and reliable performance
  • Epoxy filled, hermetically sealed, low energy consumption motors result in silent, efficient operation while surpassing the highest safety standards
  • Run internally or externally in fresh or saltwater; Barb I/O fittings with built-in twist clamp

User questions & answers

Question: What is the flow rate in GPH
Answer: These are 110v 60hz
Question: Is this adjustable
Answer: Hi, Sorry for the slow reply. I wanted to physically check these in the warehouse. The 1260 pumps we have are 3/4" thread. This is a new change from Eheim, majority of Eheim pumps are Metric. So i don't know when they switched, so some sellers might still have metric threaded versions.
Question: that is 110v 50Hz or 110v 60Hz
Answer: That would be like using a semi truck to drop your kid off at school. This is 900 gallons per hour with a 4 ft head. If you need speed this would definitely be your pump it will move 40 gallons in 3 minutes. I would look at a smaller Eheim. Go to their website and choose one with 300-400 gph would be my net.
Question: What size are the threads
Answer: The one I bought on Amazon is the US (120V/60Hz) model. Eheim does make a 230 Volt version, but it does not appear to be available from Amazon

Simple Deluxe 160 GPH UL Listed Submersible Water Pump for Fish Tank, Hydroponics, Aquaponics, Fountains, Ponds, Statuary, Aquariums & Inline

Simple Deluxe

Based on 194 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Simple DeluxeSubmersible Pumpsare quality products, designed using the very latest technological developments.The pumps are suitable for use in hydroponic systems, ponds, aquariums, fountains and filter systems. Safest Choice- The pumps have been developed on the basis of the so-called synchronous technology, whereby the electrical parts are fully encapsulated in epoxy resin Reliable - The pumps have an economical, powerful and reliable motor. The entire series are suitable for installation on dry land for in-line use or submersible into the water. Our submersible pumps are equipped with a ceramic shaft and therefore also suitable for use in salt water Simple Deluxe 160 GPH Submersible Water Pump - Pre-filter - Adjustable - 6 ft Waterproof Cord - Lift Height 4.3 ft - Product Dimension(Inch) 3.66 x 2.05 x 2.46 - Nozzles 0.31, 0.51 inch

  • #1 HAS PRE-FILTER INCLUDED - Pre-filter on the intake prevents debris from entering your pump and extend the life of your pump, Max flow rate: 160GPH, Max Lift Height 4.3ft
  • DURABLE QUALITY - Our Polished Aluminum Oxide Ceramic Impeller Shaft insures long pump life because it is non-corrodible and more than 3 times as hard as stainless steel. Epoxy Resin Encasement of key internal motor components prevents unwanted conductivity and corrosion of metal parts
  • SAFE & EASY - Safe for fish with no exposed copper. Easy to clean with no tools required to disassemble and clean filter/impeller. Our Electric Cord is waterproof, 18# gauge copper wire, molded plug with ground, heavy duty flexible vinyl jacket, resists oil/grease/moisture, abrasion resistant and very good flexibility at all temperatures
  • COMPACT & MINI SIZE - The mini size makes the pump easy to hide or disguise in the water. Suction cups is great for mounting onto the glass surface. 6ft CORD. Dimensions: 3.66"x2.05"x2.46"
  • VERSATILE - Circulate and aerate the water, making it more attractive to your fish or turtles. This submersible pump is perfect for aquarium, fountains, spout and hydroponic systems

User questions & answers

Question: How high is it
Answer: Same as the temperatures that fish can tolerate.
Question: Does it have to be in water
Answer: I don't know just threw it away and got a difference brand
Question: Whats the temp range the pump can handle
Answer: Go to the source. This link shows all Eheim Universal pumps with rate in liters per hour. You'll have to do the math: https://www.eheim.com/en_GB/products/technology/pumps/universal In my personal use I found these flow rates conservative. Unfortunately, they don't don't have a chart to show flow drop-off when pumping water vertically.
Question: how do I get my product exchanged, it stopped working after 6 weeks
Answer: They do not include any valves to adjust the flow, you could put a valve and slow it down though. The head pressure won't' hurt the pump, just slow down on the outflow side.

Product features

Fountain
Hydroponics
Aquarium
Simple Deluxe 160 GPH Pump LGPUMP160G includes removable front cover, impeller, rubber mounting feet, and 6 ft waterproof power cord

Voltage: 120V/60Hz

Amps: 0.195A

Watts: 23.4W

Flow Rate(G/H): 160GPH

Max Lift Height: 4.3 ft

Dimensions(Inch): 3.66 x 2.05 x 2.46

Cord Length: 6 ft

80W Electric Submersible Pump Spindle Motor Cooling Water Pump for CNC Engraving Machine -- CN Plug 220V

Walfront

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This is a submersible water pump applicable for 0.8/1.5/2.2kW water-cooling spindle motor. Internal circuit is well sealed to protect from water. ABS housing has good resistance to heat and impact, ensuring long lifespan of the pump. The water pump must fully immersed in water to use. Suitable for CNC machine, aquarium tank, water fountain, etc.



Specification:

Plug type: CN plug

Voltage: AC 220V

Material: ABS + metal

Drive method: Electric

Rated power: 80W

Pump lift: 3.5m / 11.5ft

Applicable range: cooling 0.8/1.5/2.2kW water-cooling spindle motor

Weight: Approx. 1063g / 37.5oz



Package list:

1 * Water Pump



Note: 

1. Please kindly make a note if you need any plug adapter.

2. Do not idle running the pump without water.

  • ✔ Submersible -- This is a submersible water pump applicable for 0.8/1.5/2.2kW water-cooling spindle motor, strong power and high lift, max lift height: 3.5m / 11.5ft, 80W high efficiency motor.
  • ✔ Well Sealed -- Internal circuit is well sealed to protect from water, durable structure and a compact design to ensure that the submersible pump can be used again and again without corrosion.
  • ✔ Long Lifespan -- ABS housing has good resistance to heat and impact, ensuring long lifespan of the pump, 4 strong suction cups at the bottom of the pump help keep it in place, help keep it in place.
  • ✔ Water Control -- The water pump must fully immersed in water to use, water flow control, an adjustable knob to control the water flow rate, so you can get just the amount of water pressure you want.
  • ✔ Wide Application -- Suitable for CNC machine, aquarium tank, water fountain, etc, circulate and aerate the water, making it more attractive to your fish or turtles, perfect for aquarium, fountains, and hydroponic systems, etc.

User questions & answers

Question: What is the amount of horsepower
Answer: Don't know, but I occasionally have trouble getting it started with it sitting completely under a couple of inches of water.
Question: Where I find a shaft for this kind of pump
Answer: Yes (mine came with one).
Question: Is it self priming so that it could sit a foot above he water line and draw water up to begin pumping
Answer: My fountain is about 3 feet high and it works fine.
Question: Does this come with the prefilter like the other models? The photo shows the direct plumbing connection
Answer: Yes, it has to be submerged to cycle the water through and back up the fountain.

Latest Reviews

View all