Enough air for Ziss Bio Filter?

[MTAquatics]

Would a USB air pump be able to handle a ziss bio filter? Anybody try this combo?

Edited February 10, 2021 by MTAquatics

[Lizzie Block]

I don't think the USB nano is strong enough sorry to say. I'd go with something more powerful like an Aquatop pump.

[Ryan S.]

Agreed with Lizzie.  I've played around with different air pumps I had on hand.  Whisper 40 works as another option though I would use an aquatop instead if I had one.  It just works much better if you put more air through it.  

[MTAquatics]

Thank you @Lizzie Block and @Ryan S.. I got a more powerful pump. Any tips for making the bubbles less loud? I usually run finer bubbles through my sponge filters for the sound but I can't do that with the ziss filter. Do you all have any tips? Would it help if I install it closer to the water line?

Edited February 10, 2021 by MTAquatics

[Ryan S.]

Man, that is the million dollar question - biggest drawback of the ziss in my opinion, drove me nuts when it was in my display tank.  I don't have a real answer for you, but yes, closer to the waterline is a little quieter.  I tried the lid method similar to what you can see on old LRB videos where he uses lids to deflect bubbles for splashing purposes, but I didn't have a ton of luck with that making it quieter.  If you figure out something, let me know.  Maybe someone smarter than me has figured it out and will respond.  Good luck!

[MTAquatics]

53 minutes ago, Ryan S. said:

Man, that is the million dollar question - biggest drawback of the ziss in my opinion, drove me nuts when it was in my display tank.  I don't have a real answer for you, but yes, closer to the waterline is a little quieter.  I tried the lid method similar to what you can see on old LRB videos where he uses lids to deflect bubbles for splashing purposes, but I didn't have a ton of luck with that making it quieter.  If you figure out something, let me know.  Maybe someone smarter than me has figured it out and will respond.  Good luck!

I thought about the lid method but unlike sponge filters, the airline isn't actually near where the air actually comes out of. I'll keep you posted if I come with a solution that works. Thank you for your help!