Tips for Picking the Best Pond Aeration System
If you are looking to buy an aerator for ponds and lakes for the first time, choosing a pond aeration system can be a challenging task. There are many options available on the market and many factors that go into choosing the one that best suits your unique situation. Here are some tips that will help point you in the right direction regarding which aeration system may be best for you:
The surface area and depth of the pond
Your pond’s surface area and depth are very important. You need a pond aeration system that is effective in aerating your pond, but you probably don’t want one that is overly effective because it can raise your monthly electricity costs unnecessarily. The pond surface area that the aeration system can aerate is listed in most product descriptions. Keep in mind that this can vary slightly based on depth, and in some cases eliminate certain aeration options. For example, you should avoid installing a shallow aeration system in a deep pond as it cannot effectively aerate depths greater than six feet.
The shape of the pond
It is important to consider the pond shape for choosing a pond aerator, especially if it is uneven or includes coves. You may utilise nearly any aeration system for your pond if it has a depth of 6 feet or less and a simple circular or oval shape. Irregular shapes, however, may require you to purchase additional aeration in order to assure that all parts of your pond can adequately receive oxygen.
Choosing a deep water aeration system
If your pond is deeper than six feet, a diffused aeration system is a great option. Diffused aeration systems aerate the pond from the bottom up, ensuring that not just the surface but the entire pond depth is adequately aerated. Another option is to use an aqua blower (commonly called an aqua thruster) and either direct it’s flow towards the bottom or purchase a mount that allows it to operate near the bottom of deep water.
Choosing a surface aeration system
If your pond is less than six feet deep, a surface aerator is your best option. There are several different kinds of surface aerators, including pond fountains, aqua blowers, bubblers and pond de-icers. Pond fountains are a classic, popular option due to their inherent aesthetic value and excellent aeration ability. Bubblers are similar to aqua blowers and de-icers (and in some cases, names are used interchangeably due to their close likeness) and make great aerators, often even more so than fountains. Pond de-icers are both good aerators and great for all-season use. Aqua blowers are very flexible products that have recently surpassed fountains in popularity as they can aerate as well as agitate and circulate water more effectively than other aerators.
In the end, keep in mind that each pond is distinct and needs an aeration system that is designed for it if it is to remain attractive and healthy. Before purchasing a pond aeration system, always seek guidance and advice from your water aeration system provider for the best results.
