Shake to start Gravel cleaner

[Aqua sobriquet]

How do these shake to start gravel cleaners work? I’ve got some materials so would like to make one for my Nano’s.

 

[BarryH]

In the ones I've bought and had little success with, I think it's as simple as a weighted flap acting as a one way valve.

 

[Emil.]

I have one from Dennerle that has two plastic flaps doing exactly what BarryH said. It takes a bit of practice to learn how to start the flow. It's not that bad but if you manage to suck up sand, you'll need to clean the flaps before a re-start. Any stuck particles will prevent the flaps to fully close and the air/water can return freely.

 

[Andrew Butler]

How do these shake to start gravel cleaners work? I’ve got some materials so would like to make one for my Nano’s.

I don't rate them, I always seemed to make a mess of the sand/soil with them when starting.
Just my experience of them.

I far prefer either a simple siphon one or a piece of hose already filled with water so the siphon action can start straight away (I hop this makes sense?)
I also play around a lot with hozelock type hoses and fittings to add in connections and control on/off actions.