Micro Bubbles!

[Anonymous]

My power went out, and my check valve failed...remove my sump, clean up carpet, let it dry, etc. When i hooked it back up, i started getting crazy micro bubbles. I've done some testing and found out that they are being produced in the pump. Is there anything I can do about this?

 

[danmhippo]

It may be coming from piping connections. You need to isolate which connection is having air leakage.

 

[Len]

You should also check the pump's motor assembly. Any air trapped in there will result in microbubbles for days. Also, any cavitation with any loose debris may cause bubbles.

 

[Anonymous]

Could the incoming water be splashing on the return pump. If so you can put a filter sponge over the intake and reduce bubbles.
Andy

 

[Anonymous]

I do have a sponge up before my pump intake. I'll try looking into the motor and see if i can find anything.

Thanks

 

[Anonymous]

I did find a snail in the return. Don't know how it managed to get past my little screen, but it found a way. Have any of you ever had the micro bubbles collect on your fishes bodies? I think my fish may be covered in them. They have a shinny sheen to them now, but have no apparent behavior changes. Very...almost pretty looking. But very hard to see, have to get just the right angle.

 

[danmhippo]

If you have corals, they do not tolerate air collecting on their underside well.

 

[Len]

Fish will shake off the bubbles in due time (assuming you've got the problem under control) and most likely won't show any negative effects. Some corals don't take well to bubbles though.

In my experience, sponges tend to trade air that gets sucked into the pump. I'd remove the sponge if you don't really need it.