air pump question

[v2k]

I built a 4 inch diameter 48 inch tall protein skimmer and need to know what size air pump to create sufficient bubbles using 4 3 inch airstones. I wondered if any among you have any advice.

I asked "Snailman" from who posted the design on ReefCentral what size air pump I need and ....here is a copy of Snailman's reply

You need an air pump that will be able to pump under 48" of water. Most air pumps won't do that. TetraTec made some deep water air pumps that should work but read the specifications very carefully. I used a Medo pump but I was runnins three skimmers and several other items. They are great pumps but are a bit expensive unless you find a cheap one on ebay, They will run 20/7 for 5 years and then they need a new piston which is around $35. They are linear piston air pumps.
Happy Reefing,
Jon

[tgray]

Try www.surpluscenter.com sometimes they have linear air pumps (and many other things) for sale at reasonable prices.