If you're a typical discus nut, you probably have more than one tank full of discus, if not many. Power strips, airline, pumps everywhere. You've probably caused a fire hazard at your home. Well, I'm sure you've considered consolidating your set-up. One thing you can do is build a central air blower system. That is what this week's "Trick of the Trade" is about.

A typical blower is available in several different sizes usually measured in horsepower rating(1/10hp, 1/8hp, and so on). I would recommend consulting the manufacturers brochure or guide for the size to suit your needs. Keep in mind that blowers are generally very powerful and are designed to push many tanks.

Once you have chosen the blower for you, it is now time to set it up. I personally use 1 1/2" PVC as the backbone of the system. I also recommend brass pipe valves that are self tapping. They withstand more abuse than the plastic ones and DO NOT need teflon taping. The PVC is run over or behind the tanks in the hatchery. Make sure the PVC is at least above water level everywhere it is run (for obvious reasons). Cap the ends. Now find a convenient place to hook the blower up to the system. Usually a 1 1/2" flexible hose will fit onto the blower which can then be adapted to the PVC. You must configure a bleed-off valve in the system. This valve is at the proximal end of the system. It is essentially a "T" off the main line with a ball valve. As you close off this ball valve, more air flow is directed to the tanks instead of being "Bled off".

Now get a 3/8" drill-bit and drill a hole everywhere you want an air line. As mentioned above, the brass pipe valves are self tapping and can then be screwed right in the line. Finally, adjust the bleed-valve to get the right amount of general air pressure to the tanks. Good Luck!

Until next week,