How Does a Salt Water Aquarium Pump Work?

Functionality

The main pump is located next to the heater. Both are situated in a sump under the aquarium. A sump is a small container which houses the vital components of a salt water aquarium. The arrangement of the salt water aquarium pump and other components housed under the aquarium ensures better water flow throughout the aquarium. The water level is maintained, and oxygen is distributed into the water evenly. A cosmetic advantage is achieved by placing the pump out of sight for a spacious and overall natural look.

Live rock is used to achieve a close replication of the natural environment of salt water fish. Live rock is a natural filter in a salt water environment. In order to maintain a natural filtration system, a submersible pump is introduced into the aquarium. This ensure that water flow and current are active throughout the entire aquarium, which in turn allows the natural process of filtering bacteria inside of the aquarium. The submersible pump works as an additional pump, and is not intended to replace the main pump. Live coral in the salt water aquarium require food, and the submersible pump provides the necessary water current to carry the food to the coral. In addition to bringing food to live coral, the submersible pump carries away all waste from the coral. Although it is not intended to act as a replacement pump, the submersible pump's power heads can act as a backup pump if the main pump fails. By having this submersible pump move water from the inside of the aquarium, your fish and coral stand a better chance of surviving a main pump failure.

Salt water aquarium pumps circulate oxygen, food and waste for fish, live coral and other salt water marine life. The typical salt water pump produces high pressure in the water. This high pressure is good for protein skimmers, oxygen reactors and airstones (such as lime wood). Salt water pumps can be positioned under gravel and in corner filters. An additional pump is recommended for optimal performance in deep salt water aquariums. Pumps that are located in the aquarium should be sealed with epoxy inside (ask a store clerk or read the package details before you buy your salt water pump). The epoxy sealant prevents the leakage of harmful chemicals into the salt water aquarium.