12 best powerheads for aquariums
Powerheads are essential components in aquariums that play a critical role in maintaining a healthy aquatic environment. They are a type of water pump used to create water movement and circulation within the aquarium. Powerheads help in achieving several important functions within an aquarium, including filtration, aeration, and water circulation.
Here are some key points about powerheads for aquariums:
Water Circulation and Aeration: Powerheads are primarily used to provide adequate water movement and aeration in the aquarium. They create currents that mimic natural flow, preventing stagnant water and promoting oxygenation, which is vital for the well-being of fish and other aquatic organisms.
Filtration: Powerheads can be integrated with filtration systems in aquariums. They help in pushing water through filters, enhancing the efficiency of filtration by removing debris, waste, and harmful substances. This contributes to maintaining water quality and a healthy environment for the fish.
Directional Flow: Many powerheads are designed to provide directional flow, allowing aquarium hobbyists to direct water movement as needed. This is particularly useful for creating specific flow patterns, targeting dead spots, or providing stronger flow in certain areas of the tank.
Size and Capacity: Powerheads come in various sizes and capacities to accommodate different aquarium sizes and water volume requirements.It's important to choose a powerhead that is appropriate for the size of your aquarium to ensure efficient water circulation without overwhelming the fish.
Adjustable Flow Rates: Modern powerheads often come with adjustable flow rates, enabling users to regulate the water movement based on the needs of the aquarium inhabitants. Adjusting the flow rate is crucial for maintaining a comfortable environment for different species of fish and corals.
Mounting and Placement: Powerheads can be mounted using suction cups or other mechanisms to secure them in place within the aquarium. Proper placement is essential to achieve optimal water circulation and maintain a balanced ecosystem.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance of powerheads is important to ensure they function effectively. This includes cleaning and checking for any blockages that may impede water flow.
In summary, powerheads are critical components in aquariums, providing water circulation, aeration, and facilitating filtration. Choosing the right powerhead and maintaining it properly contributes to a healthy and thriving aquatic environment for fish and other aquatic pets.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best powerheads for aquariums on the marketProduct description
From industry firsts to industry standards, Marineland products are designed with both performance and style in mind. We push precision and power beyond the expected and listen to our loyal customers to make our products even better. We do this because at the heart of our innovative spirit is a desire to help hobbyists everywhere do more, create more and, most of all, enjoy more. So whatever your customers are passionate about — freshwater or saltwater, big or small, beauty or science — help them make their aquarium their own. Make it Marineland. Maxi-jet multi-use water pumps are three pumps in one: powerhead, utility pump and now featuring circulation pump option. Still the best powerhead for powering undergravel filters and running with wave maker timers, as well as running small fountains, calcium reactors and skimmers. New to the maxi-jet, the conversion kit in the box to turn the powerhead into a prop style circulation pump for ultimate water movement inside the aquarium for the least amount of energy. The most fully adaptable pump available.
- Three Pumps in One
- Turns powerhead in to a prop style circulation pump
- The most fully adaptable pump available
- Model Number: ML90510
- Age Range Description: All Ages
- Included Components: Marineland Maxi-Jet 600 Pro Pump For Aquariums 3 In 1, 160/750 Max Gph
User questions & answers
Question: | I connected everything correctly for the utility mode and the air line, problem is, i cannot get any air in, the line has no obstruction incl valve |
Answer: | Mine didn’t but mine didn’t even work when I got it. It really was a piece of junk |
Question: | Can I use this to mix water with salt in a bucket for water changes |
Answer: | I don’t use the bags as I had the same issue. I use the hose with the open end inside a bucket. Works well for me. Good luck |
Question: | can you use it in salt water |
Answer: | I’d like to tell you yes but I just can’t. When mine arrived it didn’t work and had no instructions to it to get it working. I couldn’t even call the manufacturer as I could find no number to them. I think it’s not worth the money and keep looking. Hope that helps. |
Question: | How would this do for a ten gallon |
Answer: | The black tube is used to drain water out from your tank specially when you do a water change, but if you just want to clear your tanks water and remove some waste, debris, and algae then the filter bag would do the trick. Just make sure to remove the filter bag and clean it several times during your tank mentenance. |
Product features
Marineland Maxi-Jet Pro Pump for Aquariums
Maxi-Jet Multi-Use Water Pumps are three pumps in one: power head, utility pump, and now featuring a circulation pump option.
The Maxi-Jet also contains an in-box conversion kit, which can turn the power head into a prop style circulation pump for proper water movement inside the aquarium.
Product description
Marineland brand is the world’s leading brand of innovative equipment and environments for consumers wishing to create the ultimate aquatic showcase. Committed to fishkeeping success for over 40 years, the brand is the professional’s choice for commercial display systems and scientific research. Whatever you’re passionate about – freshwater or saltwater, big or small, beauty or science – make your aquarium your own. Marineland Penguin Submersible Power Head delivers constant flow in freshwater and marine aquariums. Fully adjustable aeration maximizes oxygenation in freshwater aquariums. It’s the perfect upgrade to your undergravel system, replacing the need for independent air pumps and stones. In marine aquariums, flexible mounting options and fully adjustable outlet make this power head the ideal choice to add necessary water flow to your reef aquarium. This reliable device delivers powerful, constant water flow to maximize oxygenation. It includes an adjustable aeration valve, along with a flow diffuser for directed water flow. Select the proper size pump for your tank. Available in three sizes: Model 550 (145 GPH); 660 (170 GPH); and 1140 (300 GPH). Marineland aquarium pumps provide powerful, dependable water circulation and aeration. Versatile and easy-to-use, Marineland pumps are available in a range of sizes to handle the water flow and oxygenation needs of aquariums at rates of 100 to 1300 GPH.
- SUBMERSIBLE POWER HEAD: Marineland Penguin Submersible Power Head is silent, safe and reliable – for use in both freshwater and marine aquariums.
- MAXIMUM OXYGENATION: The constant, powerful water flow maximizes oxygenation.
- FLOW DIFFUSER: Direct water flow easily with the included flow diffuser.
- THREE SIZES: Model 550 (145 GPH); 660 (170 GPH); and 1140 (300 GPH).
User questions & answers
Question: | I have an about 10-15 year old version of this and I’m wondering if part 3 in the diagram given above goes completely under water or not, plz help |
Answer: | You would only get air if you are using this pump in the powerhead version with the impeller and the venturi attached to it. In utility mode, you do not use the venturi and will not pull air in since the entire pump is fully submerged. |
Question: | I'd like to use this with a sponge pre-filter to get some extra cleaning in my 90 gallon fresh. Should I get the bigger 340GPH version |
Answer: | Yes, that's what I use it for. Although it builds up calcium deposits pretty quickly so you should run it in vinegar occasionally. |
Question: | How depth |
Answer: | absolutely can be used in salt water. |
Question: | Can I put a round sponge filter on the water outlet part? And what size |
Answer: | For a 10 gal tank a 110/500 to gph is more than sufficient, even up to a 20 gal. For tanks up to 30 the 160.750 gph, for 40gal the 230/1000 gph will do the job. If you have under a 40 gallon tank a single pump is all you need to run one under gravel filter, two pumps might be too much. Anything over a 40 gal tank I recommend a dual pump under gravel filter set up. For a 50 gal tank I recommend no less than two 295/1300 gph Maxi Jets. I have two mounted into a 48x12 tank with a DIY under gravel filter set up with a modified carbon filter basket mounted on one of the pipes to draw water into it. These units are great, and pump air and circulate the water very well, my gold fish no longer behave like their stuck in a stagnant pond, you can definitely see a change for the better in their behavior, their actually happy now. If you love your fish, get them one of these. |
Product features
Marineland Penguin Submersible Power Head Pump for Aquariums
Description:
Quiet freshwater and saltwater powerheads ideal for creating less noise in your tank. Penguin Power Heads deliver constant flow with fully adjustable aeration and increased surface agitation...and they remain silent at all times. The custom air valve regulates air flow, the air filter eliminates noise and dust, and the intake strainer keeps debris from fouling the impeller... that's efficiency!
Product description
Description:
Super quiet wave pump equipped with sucker, easy to install on the bottom or wall of fish tank.
Fit for the depth of aquarium less than 0.6m,length between 0.8m~1m.
Specs:
Color: Black
Material: environmental Plastic
Voltage: 110V-120V
Frequency:60Hz
Power :3W
Package size: 4.33”D X 6.69”W X 2.95”H(110*170*75mm)
Maximum flow: 2000L/H each wave maker
Length of cord: 4.35ft/1.35m
Package included:
2 X wave maker
Notice:2pcs are fit for aquarium with length 2.62ft~3.28( 0.8m~1.0 m)
Maxium flow:4000L/h(2 wakers)
- 🐋Large wave-making effect, low working noise.
- 🐋uninterrupted cycle work, long service life,
- 🐋No switch, plug in to work,
- 🐋Package with 2 wake makers
- 🐋With manufacturer warranty
User questions & answers
Question: | Will this work on a 30 gal tank |
Answer: | Thank you for your interest in this product Eron! It can be fully submerged anywhere in the tank. If you wish to use the venturi and have air bubbles as well, however, you can only submerge it up to two inches. |
Question: | will this work on a 15 gal tank |
Answer: | I don't think putting a filter on the outlet part is advisable. It would quickly clog up and either stop the water flow or it would blow the clogged sponge filter off the power head. You can put one on the INLET side unless you are attaching the inlet to an undergravel filter. I tried putting a conical sponge filter on the inlet side of the power filter but it clogged pretty quickly with plant material and other debris. |
Product description
YCTECH Aquarium Submersible Water Pump Quiet Pump for Pond, Fish Tank Fountain Water Hydroponics
Specifications
Max Flow Rate: 1056 GPH (4000L/H)
Power: 6W
Voltage: 110 - 120 V @ 60Hz
Length of Power Cord: 4.9ft(1.5m)
Dimension: 5.5in x 4.4in x3.2in
YCTECH Co., Ltd. is a professional manufacturer and sell company of ,aquarium water pump, Aquarium products such as fish tanks and Heaters ,eletricc water pump, handicraft water pump, aquarium equipment aquarium equipment etc. It has a complete and scientific quality management system. We are a company based on “ quality and innovation”
Caution:
1.Before using the pump, please make sure the rated voltage marked on the nameplate and the voltage actual use is consistent.
2.When installing, removing and cleaning the pump, you must unplug the power plug to ensure safety.
3.If the pump has been a serious collision, please check the pump, is broken, please stop using immediately.
4.Not intended to be moved when plugged in or in operation.
5.The supply cord can be replaced if the cord is damaged the appliance has to be scrapped.
Maintenance:
1.If the pump will be not use for a long-term, please take the pump out the water, and let the pump work in the clean water for a moment, and clean the parts of the pump and wipe clean.
2.If the temperature is below 0 Fahrenheit degree, please take the water pump from the water immediately and discharge accumulation of the water in the pump in case pump is broken because of freezing.
- Strong Power :The water pump rotates 360 degrees to generate water wave motion, let the water in your fish tank move, and make your fish, corals and other aquatic life full of vitality and full of the sense of the ocean.
- Adjustable direction: This pump not only has a different shape than other pumps, it also adjusts the direction.
- 24 hours customer service online, any questions please contact us at any time.If you are not satisfy with this fish tank power head for any reason in 30 days, we will refund the cost. you can return the new one for free if there is problem within a year.
- Magnet Base: simple installation and can be moved at will, only need to move the suction cup outside the tank , the position of the pump will be move (the maximum adsorption fish tank thickness is 15MM)
- 360 ° free rotation: novel design makes the wave direction adjustable. Compared to traditional pumps, our pumps are more flexible.
User questions & answers
Question: | The Power Cord seems a bit short can you plug it in to an extension cord |
Answer: | I made mistake buying this before doing research. It’s too powerful for my 20 g tank. You need to look it up the right tank size for this via its power. I am not sure but maybe it’s for 50 gal tank. |
Question: | What direction do you move the flow control valve to be less power? Towards the outlet or away fro the outlet |
Answer: | Yes It will. |
Question: | Will magnet work threw plastic side ? Is it strong enough to hold it on plastic |
Answer: | I use the whole thing under water except the wire to plug in. I have a half of a water bottle full of floss on the end with the point. I have it laying down on the bottom and polishing the water while swiping the debris to the end of the tank with the outlet for water. |
Question: | Can I control the strength of the flow |
Answer: | This is the perfect size for your tank |
Product description
Description:
FFXTW 8W aquarium power head with detachable sucker,runs efficiently and quietly while providing Superior water movement in aquariums. The optional venture air intake feature with air regulator allows for increased water aeration. Easily install and perfect for powering under gravel filtration systems. Especially used in both freshwater and saltwater aquariums.
Features:
With function of Oxygenation,surfing,pump water
158 gallons per hour flow rate (600 l)
Removable sucker install
8 watt pumping power
Fully submersible
Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater use.
Specs:
Color:black
Voltage: 110V-120V
Frequency:60Hz
Power :8W
Maximum flow: 158Gallons/H
Outfall dia:0.63”
Length of cord:4.43ft
Plug into the tube to get the oxygen.
Package:
1X Aquarium Power Head
- 🐳With function of Oxygenation,surfing,pump water
- 🐳Removable sucker install
- 🐳Fully submersible
- 🐳Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater use.
- 🐳With manufacturer warranty
- Water flow could switch on outlet, it can adjustable flow base on different demand;
- Forceful Magnet,this wave maker is by magnet, also the pump inside the tank could be moved by an external magnet.
- 360°Free Rotation power head;
- Wave Maker must be 100% submerged into the water, Do not use the pump without water. Otherwise, the pump shaft may be damaged.
- With lifetime factory guarantee
Product features
6W/8W/12W Aquarium Power Head Wave Maker Circulation Pump
6.38 x 4.49 x 4.25 inches; 1.34 Pounds
With Magnet
Forceful Magnet,this can be moved by an external magnet
360°Free Rotation
360°Free Rotation power head
Product description
FREESEA Aquarium Wavemaker Powerhead Circulation Pump with Magnet Suction Base for 20-60 Gallon Fish Tank
- 🐟Aquarium Water Circulation: This wave maker pump simulates a gentle flow helping the tanks feel more like the ocean. It is designed to stir up debris and make wave in the water. In addition, this pump can be used to increase the oxygen level of the water.
- 🐟Powerful & Quiet: 6W, 1050GPH submersible powerhead is higher flow rates and lower energy consumption. Single head makes strong waves to circulate the water quietly and efficiently. The stable magnetic base reduces noise when running and prevents the pump from falling off.
- 🐟Easy to Install: With a magnetic bracket which is easy to install and allows you to position the pump virtually anywhere in your aquarium. A adjustable ring with fine slots prevent baby fishes, corals and sea stars from getting involved.The head rotates a full 360 degrees, offering full control of the direction of flow, creating natural water motion.
- 🐟Application: FREESEA wave pump improve water circulation and oxygenation, which is good for fishes' healthy growth. Constructed of Anti-corrosion titanium impellers, it can be used safely in both fresh water and salt water, all kinds of fish tanks, Water grass aquarium,coral aquariums.
- 🐟Satisfaction Guaranteed: Gain the confidence to go hard with us! In the remote possibility that you’re not satisfied with our product, just contact us, and we will gladly give you a new Circulation Pump replacement. 12 Month Warranty and 24 Hour Professional After-sales Service.
User questions & answers
Question: | Will this magnet work on 3/8 inch glass |
Answer: | Yes |
Question: | Which Way on the switch is the flow stronger I can’t seem to feel a difference |
Answer: | They are smaller than expected.... one speed only.... I really like the jabao ones the best more money but controlable |
Question: | Does this pump run on dc or ac? if dc how many volts |
Answer: | I'm going to say yes. It's a pretty strong magnet. I do have mine on glass though |
Question: | On the 8 watt power head, can the two heads be rotated individually or do they both have to point in the same direction |
Answer: | Not sure |
Product description
Aquatop’s PH Series power heads run efficiently and quietly while providing superior water movement in aquariums, preventing stagnant water conditions. The optional venture air intake feature with air regulator allows for increased water aeration. The Ph Series is easily fitted to and ideal for powering under gravel filtration systems. Aquatop’s PH Series power heads are great for use in both Freshwater and Saltwater aquariums systems.
- Submersible Power Head
- 317 Gal/Hr flow rate
- 22 Watt Pumping Power
- Includes optional air intake and air regulator to aerate water.
- Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater
User questions & answers
Question: | How do I find the filter in the picture |
Answer: | Yes, it works well with my 125 gallon tank |
Question: | How many prongs does the plug have |
Answer: | Don’t think there is a strong and not so strong flow. If so, I didn’t know about it. Maybe contact the company and ask them. I love mine, and so do the fish! Good luck. |
Question: | Will this work on a 12"x 30" Under gravel filter or would i need a second unit |
Answer: | Run on AC |
Question: | Can this powerhead be used as a pump for a chiller |
Answer: | They are attached to each other so you cannot have them point in separate directions. |
Product features
Aquatop PH-22
Aquatop’s PH Series power heads run efficiently and quietly while providing superior water movement in aquariums, preventing stagnant water conditions. The optional venturi air intake feature with air regulator allows for increased water aeration. The PH Series is easily fitted to and ideal for powering under gravel filtration systems. Aquatop’s PH Series power heads are great for use in both Freshwater and Saltwater aquariums systems.
Product description
Super 102 circulating pump features an articulating ball joint that allows for a 360-degree range of motion allowing for water movement in those hard to reach areas. The suction cup is capable of adhering to any glass or acrylic surface. The 102 also has a high flow impeller system that uses A ceramic impeller shaft which is stronger than traditional plastic, and is capable of moving up to 1300 gallons of water per hour promoting a healthy stagnant free water environment.
- Minimum vibration with low noise
- Flow rate: 1300GPH
- Oil free, Grease free magnetic motor
- Voltage - 120V/60Hz
- Wattage - 12 watts
- Do not use with any timer or controller
User questions & answers
Question: | how do you clean it |
Answer: | What is pictured is a submersible UV lamp. It is not a filter. |
Question: | Gow will the 1300 do in my 100 gallon acrylic tank |
Answer: | 2 |
Question: | Is this sufficient for using in a mixing station? Only Mixing 20 gal at a time |
Answer: | One would probably work. We purchased two, but we have a 55 gallon, 12" x 48" tank. |
Question: | does it make noise |
Answer: | Probably not. The pump is probably too weak for that task. |
Product description
Description:
FFXTW super quiet wave pump equipped with sucker, easy to install on the bottom or wall of fish tank,length between 0.8m~1m,maximum water flow reach to 3000L/H, , 360 degrees over turn, maximum turn height 45 °. No switch, plug in to work, high strength wear-resistant shaft core, uninterrupted cycle work, long service life.
Specs:
Color: Black
Material: environmental material
Voltage: 110V-120V
Frequency:60Hz
Power :6W
Maximum flow: 3000L/H each wave maker
Length of cord:4.43ft
Package size: 6.3”D X 6.69”W X 2.95”H
Package include:
1 X 6W Power Wave Maker
- 🐋110V ,Super quiet, low working noise
- 🐋Wide-spread range which is ideal for freshwater or marine aquarium
- 🐋Totally submersible and oil-free motor to avoid pollution to the living circumstance
- 🐋360 degree rotation to allow full flow directions
- 🐋12 Months warranty
User questions & answers
Question: | Can it be used for a 10 gallon tank |
Answer: | It is actually really powerful and should do fine. The only issue I had with it is dead I had it connected to a wave maker and every time it turned back on it made a clicking noise |
Question: | Use in saltwater |
Answer: | May be a 10 gallon not a 20 |
Question: | Recommended for what size aquarium |
Answer: | No noise. Great pump. |
Product description
Are the dead spots in your aquarium annoying you so much? Do you feel the fish inanimate? The SUN jvp-110 is dynamic and fully submersible 528 gph aquarium wave maker have your aquarium cleared and revitalized. With articulating ball joint, this maker allows a full 360 degree rotation to generate waves of water movement. This item can be used to improve oxygenation as well as to let your fishes, corals and other aquatics enjoy a vital and energetic ocean-like circumstance. Really an inexpensive way to improve water movement especially for saltwater coral, reef or fish tanks no more debris settling on the bottom or in the corners of the tank. Nor any sands being blown away from the bottom leaving a bare spot. No annoying noise, no other side effects to the fishes, the corals and other aquatics .
- Wide-spread range which is ideal for freshwater or marine aquarium
- Totally submersible and oil-free motor to avoid pollution to the living circumstance
- 360 degree rotation to allow full flow directions
User questions & answers
Question: | is the flow adjustable |
Answer: | Yes, it's not as powerful as my last one but is still moves the water. Would not be too powerful for a 10 gallon tank |
Question: | Is this safe for a 30gal tall with gold fish and a sand bottom |
Answer: | Currently being used in Saltwater. |
Question: | Does it have a on and off switch or does it need to be unplugged Everytime it's time to feed |
Answer: | I have this in a 55gal tank and it a very nice current fot the fish. I tried it in a 30gak and it was too strong. |
Question: | What size would be appropriate for a 20 gallon long tank and 20gallon deep tank |
Answer: | I found the best way to clean it is with a toothbrush. If you put it in a bowl of water, turn it on, you can clean the pump and fan after that, out of the water and unplugged. |
Product description
This submersible pump is designed for reliability and ultra-quiet operation to provide years of service. It is anti-corrosive, acid-resisting and durable. Has adjustable flow and is easy to clean.
This submersible water pump is great for fresh/salt water aquarium, indoor and outdoor fountains, spout and hydroponic systems.
FEATURE:
Adjustable water flow rate
No need any tools to detach it, easy to seperate, easy to clean
Suction cup mounting feet for either vertical or horizontal mounting
Contains no seals or messy oils
Good for both fresh water and salt water
SPECIFICATION:
Max Flow Rate: 80 GPH (300L/H)
H-Max (Lift height): 2 feet
Voltage: 110 - 120 V @ 60 Hz
Length of power cord: 6 feet
Outlet: Fits 5/16, 1/2 inch ID (inside diameter) tubing
DIMENSION: 2x1.75x1.25 inch (L x W x H)
INCLUDES:
2 PCS pump
2 sets of outlet adapters
Note:
1. Prohibit no-load running. Put the pump into water first before connecting power supply and ensure the pump must be completely submersed under water. It would shorten its lifespan and lead to making loud noises when running in the air for long time.
2. Please clean it regularly in case of debris blockage, the pump would make noises if blocked by debris.
3. The maximum flow rate is 80 GPH, there might be a plus-minus tolerance. Every additional foot of pipe, valve and turn will reduce the flow rate a little bit. If the water sprays out the container, the flow rate would also less than 80 GPH
4. 2' lift height refers to the height the pump can lift water to at the minimum flow rate. At the stable and constant flow rate, the pump can lift water to about 1' height.
There are so many options, why Choose Us
All Our Products are Produced under Strict Quality Inspection. Life-time Technical Support Professional After-Sales Team to Make Things Right within 24hr
- Adjustable flow rate: With a control knob, the maximal flow rate can be up to 80GPH(300L/H); Recommend maximum lift height: 1 feet
- Optional 2 outlets: Fits 5/16"or 1/2"ID (inside diameter) tubing
- Dimension: 2" x1.75" x1.25"(L x W x H), mini size, easy to hide or disguise; Length of power cord: 6 feet
- Wide application: Perfect for cat water fountain, pet fountain, aquarium, indoor tabletop fountains, spout and hydroponic systems, etc. Circulate and aerate the water, making it more attractive to your fish or turtles
- Note: Must be completely submersed under water
User questions & answers
Question: | can this be reduced to 55 gallons per hour |
Answer: | I use them in 20g tall and long saltwater tanks. the flow is somewhat medium. Do goldfish need high flow? My clownfish likes swimming in the flow. |
Question: | Is it loud |
Answer: | No on-off switch I Don't Unplug to feed don't understand why you would have to |
Question: | When powered off will water flow back through this pump |
Answer: | I have one of the 530egg in a 55 gallon and that's about perfect. I have another in a 75 and it's slightly underpowered. For either 20 gallon, I'd probably go for at least one step down from this. |
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