Why do you need pond aeration is one of the first questions we may discuss when you contact me regarding the condition of your pond. Pond aeration is a term that gets kicked around by pond experts, friends and neighbors who have ponds. Each pond is different in characteristics and biological oxygen demand therefore one answer does not always satisfy the question. I have compiled a short check list for your consideration before committing to purchasing an aeration system.
Your pond may need aeration if:
- Fish are at the surface trying to obtain oxygen during warm weather
- Fish are dead after the ice layer dissolves
- You have a trout pond
- Your goal is to produce trophy sized fish
- Organic muck is present on the pond bottom and increasing yearly in depth (eutrophication)
Check List:
- Select from floating systems or diffuser systems
- Electrical demand for the system
- Oxygen transfer efficiency
- Maintenance
- Safety
After you complete a little research of the check list items you should be ready to have a further discussion with a reputable salesperson or venture online and sort through brilliant marketing materials. Are you going to hire someone to install the system or are you capable of doing it yourself?
Floating aeration systems like fountains and surface aerators are easy to install and remove before winter conditions prevail. Since the electrical motor is in the water it is advisable to turn off the system before swimming just in case there is electricity leaking into the pond water. Floating surface aerators have a higher oxygen transfer rate than most floating fountains, but fountains sure look great.
Diffuser aeration systems all work the same. Atmospheric air is compressed and transferred through a hose or pipe to a diffuser (air stone or flexible membrane) that rest on the bottom of the pond or is suspended in the water column. Air bubbles rise to the surface and upon bursting, oxygen in exchanged in the thin layer of pond water that meets the atmosphere. A windmill or an electrical compressor suited for continuous duty is the source of compression. Buy a good compressor, plenty of knock off units exist. Since no electrical motor is placed in the water these can operate when you go for a swim or during winter conditions.
Still wondering? Call me for a straight up discussion, no arm twisting involved.
Jim Kennedy 585 394-5890 National Pond Service
When you consider maintenance the diffuser system that uses an electric powered compressor is easier to work on. Just keep the filter clean and the compressor from overheating. Both of these factors will shorten the life of a compressor because they pull in air and they do get hot.