Pond Fountains and Pond Aerators
If you have a pond, one of the benefits of a fountain or aerator is to improve the water quality. Fountains work by driving the water up into the air, while sub-surface aerators use a land-based pump to force air through diffusers at the bottom of the pond. They also improve circulation, which helps reduce the number of fish kills.
Improves water quality
Pond aerators and fountains improve water quality by adding oxygen to the water column. They work by pumping compressed air through air diffusers at the bottom of the water column. Adding fountains to your pond will not only improve water quality but add aesthetic appeal to your property as well. Aside from adding visual appeal, pond fountains also introduce water circulation, which helps keep your fish healthy and happy.
In addition to adding oxygen to the water, pond aeration systems reduce muck, or suspended matter, that collects in the pond. This muck can lead to murky water. Water aeration can help reduce this muck and can also help reduce the growth of weeds and algae.
Reduces muck
Muck can be a problem in your pond if it’s accumulated too quickly. The best solution is to regularly aerate your pond. Using a pond aerator is a great way to do this. These devices are designed to turn over the water in your pond twice a day, allowing aerobic bacteria to start eating organic matter. Eventually, this waste will break down into water and carbon dioxide, reducing muck in the process.
The muck in a pond is made up of dead algae, weeds, fish waste, and other organic matter that degrades over time. This buildup can result in an unpleasant smell and depletes the oxygen level of the water. There are several ways to deal with this issue before it becomes a major issue.
Increases circulation
Fountains and pond aerators work to increase the circulation of water in a pond. Water that is oxygenated has less of a chance of stratification, which is a major problem in ponds. These devices can help prevent stratification by bringing the deepest water to the surface. They can also help with the slow release of nutrients in the bottom sediments.
Fountains and aerators are usually installed on the surface of a pond, where they can create a more pleasing aesthetic effect. Fountains and aerators are a common decorative addition in urban ponds and can look stunning at night. However, for deeper ponds, bottom aeration is the better option. In addition to being more energy-efficient, bottom aerators are also more effective.
Reduces fish kills
A fish kill is a sudden death of fish or aquatic animals. It usually occurs during the summer months, when the water is warmer and there is less dissolved oxygen. This is particularly harmful for fish because they can’t breathe properly without oxygen. Therefore, it is very important to investigate any fish kills right away.
There are several causes of fish death, including predation, old age, handling, spawning stress, and minor disease outbreaks. While the occasional fish death is normal, large numbers of dead fish are cause for concern. Understanding the causes of fish deaths can help you prevent the event in the future.
Easier to maintain
Pond aerators and fountains are similar in many ways, but they do differ in the type of maintenance needed. Fountains need a much higher maintenance level, while aerators require very little care. Aerators sit at the bottom of the pond and are operated by a pump located on land. Unlike fountains, they do not require changing the cable or replacing the pump, which makes them more affordable than fountains.
Fountains are typically shallower than aerators. Fountains operate by driving oxygenated water up through the water. A sub-surface aerator, on the other hand, works by driving air into diffusers at the bottom of the pond.
Pleasant to watch
Adding fountains to your pond will add a very appealing aspect to the water garden. The sound of falling water is soothing and the spray patterns vary, making them both visually attractive and relaxing to watch. Many fountains can also be equipped with lights, which will enhance their display at night. Today, LED technology is available for efficient lighting and some even offer color-changing features.
Fountains and pond aerators are also effective oxygenators, providing your pond with the necessary oxygen. They break up the water’s surface tension to release oxygen into the water. This allows it to aerate the water and extend its life.