Whirlwind 120 Septic Air Pump

Whirlwind STA Series Septic Air Pumps

Whirlwind Septic Air Pumps are linear air pumps that use diaphragms to pump air through the unit. These flexible, rubber membranes are attached on each side of a magnetic actuating rod, or “shuttle.” The pump’s motor utilizes an electromagnetic current to move the shuttle back and forth. This motion expands and contracts the diaphragms, compressing and forcing air through a hose into the liquid effluent of your tank. At the end of the hose is a diffuser, which creates many small bubbles to distribute oxygen throughout the wastewater. This dissolved oxygen (DO) is vital for the aerobic bacteria to break down organic matter in the septic tank.

Reliable Replacement

Whirlwind septic linear air pumps are exceptionally reliable, providing consistent airflow to your septic aeration tank. These septic pumps are compatible to replace OEM brand septic tank air pumps.

Easy to Maintain

Whirlwind septic aeration pump motors have no bearings or other moving parts that require lubrication. With this oil-less system, only minor maintenance is necessary. Regularly cleaning and/or replacing the filter is easily accomplished using the hand-adjustable knob located on the top of the pump.

Diaphragms will eventually weaken and need replacement. “Rebuilding” your pump by installing new diaphragms essentially restores your pump to “new” condition.

Quiet, Cost-Effective Aeration

Whirlwind STA Series septic air pumps offer a high rate of aeration while consuming much less energy than most aerators on the market. Amperage is a useful indicator of energy consumption and the STA120N draws only 2.5 Amps with an open flow of 8.1 CFM.

Another marker of highly efficient machines is noise level. Linear air pumps are known for their quiet, low-cost operation. Durable, anti-vibration rubber feet suppress noise and keep the Whirlwind STA120N septic aerator firmly in place.

Compact, Weather-Proof Design

Whirlwind septic linear air pumps are extremely compact pumps. With their minimal footprint, they easily fit on top of the septic tank lid. The Whirlwind STA120N Septic Air Pump is constructed with a lightweight, powder-coated aluminum housing for better temperature handling and corrosion-resistance. STA120N linear air pumps are safe to install exposed to the elements but can be covered with fake rocks or other properly vented enclosures.

24-Hour Operation

Whirlwind linear diaphragm air pumps are designed to run continuously or on a timer for intermittent use. If you choose a timed option, Septic Tank Parts recommends cycling the pump on a “two hours on/two hours off” schedule and not to keep the pump off for longer than two hours.

Hose Bib for Low-Pressure Alarm

Whirlwind STA Series Septic Air Pumps are constructed with a hose bib to connect the air pump to a low-pressure alarm. The Whirlwind STA Low Pressure Alarm Kit can be purchased separately or click here to purchase the AL model STA120AL, which comes with the low-pressure alarm built in.

Other Applications

The quiet operation, low energy consumption, and small footprint of the Whirlwind linear air compressors makes them desirable aerators for indoor growing systems such as hydroponics, aquaculture, aquascaping, aquaponics, or as air pumps for large aquariums. Whirlwind linear air compressors are also effective pond aeration pumps.

How often do I need to change/clean the air filter?

Most linear air pump manufacturers recommend cleaning air filters every few months and at least once every six months. To clean, remove from the unit, and wash using mild, soapy water and air dry. Do NOT re-install the filter unless it is absolutely dry.  Generally, it is recommended to replace the filter annually.

What size air pump do I need for my septic tank?

This is a common question that homeowners have when they find their septic aerator/pump has failed. The best initial step is to determine the make and model of your current pump and locate a compatible replacement. If you know your tank manufacturer, visit the Aerobic Systems page on our website for pumps that are direct replacements for your aerobic septic system.

Manufacturers of linear air pumps follow standard specifications with numbers like 60, 80, 100, 120, 150, 200 etc. indicating the size system it can treat. The Whirlwind STA60N can treat 60 LPM (liters per minute) and the STA80N treats 80 LPM, and so on. These numbers also correlate to tank size.

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Do I need to install my Whirlwind Septic Air Pump in an enclosure?

The Whirlwind linear air pumps are designed for high temperature tolerance and moisture/corrosion resistance.  For the longest pump life, we recommend installing linear diaphragm pumps in a vented enclosure above ground level to combat high ambient temperatures and reduce exposure to water and dirt.

What is the difference between a linear piston air pump and a linear diaphragm air pump?

Linear piston and diaphragm air pumps are both types of positive displacement pump. Positive displacement pumps move air physically between different chambers and mechanically compress the air to increase the output pressure. The main difference between the two is simply the mechanism used to move the air. Piston pumps use a plunger-like rod to push air, whereas diaphragm pumps use rubber membranes that flex back and forth to pull and push air. The design of these pumps allows for a constant flow making them exceptionally suited for septic, pond, and other aeration purposes.

How long do linear diaphragm air pumps last?

Several years, if properly maintained. Regular septic tank pumping is the most effective way to keep your aerobic septic system healthy and your septic tank pumps and aerators functioning as designed. Other maintenance items, such as regularly replacing the air filter and installing new diaphragms, will keep your septic tank pump aerator performing for years.

What size air hose is used to connect my Whirlwind septic air pump to an alarm?

We install our Whirlwind STA low pressure alarms using a clear, vinyl hose with a ¼” OD (outer diameter) and a 1/8” ID (inner diameter) that fit over the hose bib. The air hose will need to be secured with a hose clamp or a zip tie.

What size hose is recommended for installation of the Whirlwind septic air pumps?

Our Whirlwind STA Series Septic Air Pumps come with a 90-degree rubber elbow fitting that has an ID (inner diameter) of 5/8” to connect the pump to an air line.

My Whirlwind Septic Air Pump alarm has gone off, what does this mean?

If you have a Whirlwind AL model with an alarm or have an alarm installed remotely, it will likely alert you with an illuminated red light and/or a buzzer. This alarm is designed to let you know when the pressure drops below a certain PSI, i.e. low pressure. This is not necessarily an indication that your Whirlwind air pump is broken, but it does likely mean that you need to replace the diaphragms in your pump.  If the diaphragms are cracked, the pump can no longer maintain the seal necessary to compress/pressurize the air.  The outgoing pressure needs to be enough to overcome the friction inside of the pipes, tubing, and any fittings between the pump outlet and the septic tank.

What size pump do I need to aerate my pond?

Determine the surface area and depth of your pond to find the appropriate pump for your aeration needs. The chart below is a handy guide for selecting a Whirlwind air pump model for your pond: