TL;DR
Air pumps oxygenate nutrient solutions to support healthier roots, faster growth, and cleaner reservoirs — especially in DWC, RDWC, and recirculating hydroponic systems.
New to indoor growing? Read Hydroponics Explained to understand how oxygenation, feeding, temperature, and airflow work together in hydro setups.
What Are Air Pumps Used For?
Air pumps push air through airline and air stones/diffusers to increase dissolved oxygen (DO) in water. Better oxygen levels help reduce stagnation, support stronger root systems, and improve overall plant performance in hydroponics.
Choosing the Right Air Pump
Flow rate (LPH): match the pump to your reservoir size and number of outlets
Number of outlets: single vs multi-outlet for multiple buckets/sites
Noise level: “low-noise” pumps suit home grows and tents
Diffuser type: ceramic stones and high-efficiency diffusers change bubble size and oxygen transfer
Doctor Blooms stocks trusted air pumps from Hailea and Charles Austen in multiple flow rates and configurations — if you’re unsure what size you need, call 01279 501857 for advice.