How to build an Air Lift Pump

An air lift pump is very easy to build and an inexpensive option for a low budget system. There are so many uses for this versatile pump that the only limit is your ingenuity and imagination. The concept is simple and commonly used in aquarium under gravel filtration systems. The rising air bubbles in the confined tube lift liquid between each air bubble. The air lift pump is great for hydroponics because not only does it supply oxygen, it also provides nutrient circulation. The main drawback of this type of system is noise and very low pressure.

Failure of the air pump diaphragm is common. Air pumps usually lose power over time as well. The diaphragm can easily be replaced in most pumps and repair kits are commonly sold at most pet stores. It is not a bad idea to either have a complete replacement air pump or repair kit on hand just in case your air pump should fail. If your air pump does fail and your plant's roots dry out they can suffer severe damage in a matter of hours.