Floating fountains, surface aerators, and submersed aerators are vital tools for improving water quality in lakes and stormwater ponds. They help maintain healthy water conditions by preventing stagnation and circulating dissolved oxygen (DO) throughout the ecosystem. Fish, beneficial bacteria, and other aquatic organisms are more likely to thrive in DO-rich waterbodies and keep the growth of nuisance aquatic weeds, algae, and toxin-producing cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) in check.
Types of Pond Fountains and Aerators
Before we dive into the signs that it’s time to replace your fountain or aerator, let’s cover the basics of each system. Floating fountains provide two-fold benefits; they create turbulence on the water that facilitates the transfer of DO below the surface while serving as beautiful focal points. They are most effective in waterbodies between 4-6 feet deep.
Also designed for waterbodies between 4-6 feet deep, surface aerators create a strong, boil-like movement that mixes surface water into the water column below. Though they are not designed for aesthetic purposes, surface aerators provide 10x the oxygenation benefits of traditional fountains.
Submersed aerators are used in waterbodies over 6 feet deep. They pump surface air to the bottom of the waterbody and release it through diffusers. The air bubbles circulate and oxygenate the water column as they rise.
While each of these systems are highly efficient and reliable when they receive proper maintenance—typically lasting 5-10 years—there comes a time when replacement will be necessary. Here are some signs to look out for:
Your system keeps failing
The most obvious sign is frequent breakdowns or outages. Even if your system is still operational, it may be functioning at a significantly lower capacity than when it was new. Failure to provide the circulation and oxygenation that your waterbody needs could signal that the equipment has started to wear. Submersed aeration air compressors lose air pressure over time, so it is important to service these at least every couple of years.
You’re frequently requesting costly “band-aid” repairs
It can be tempting to continue repairing an aging system rather than replacing it. After all, replacing a large piece of equipment can seem like a significant expense. However, multiple small repairs can add up quickly, often becoming more expensive than the cost of a new system. Replacing one failed part on an aging system runs the risk of other parts failing soon after. Furthermore, if equipment is not working optimally, water quality imbalances could reemerge, leading to additional management costs.
The model is outdated
The age of your equipment is an additional consideration. If your system is nearing the end of the predicted lifespan, it may be wise to get ahead by investing in a new model, rather than saving money for future repairs.
New fountains and aerators come with numerous advantages that can justify the investment. For example, the latest systems are often more energy efficient, which translates to lower operating costs. They may also have upgraded components, which can help improve overall performance and prolong the overall lifespan.
Additionally, many new systems come with better warranties, offering more extensive coverage than older models. Typically, new complete systems come with anywhere between 2-5 year full warranties, whereas repair or replacement parts only come with limited year or less warranties. Newer systems can provide peace of mind that the manufacturer stands behind the equipment and can help take care of the customer if problems do arise.
Ensure Your Pond Fountain or Aerator Is Running Smoothly
While aging fountains and aeration systems can continue to function for many years with regular inspections, obstruction removal, and timely oils and seals changes, there comes a time when maintenance can no longer keep them running at peak efficiency. By recognizing the signs that it may be time to replace your system, you can help avoid recurring repair costs and maintain a healthy, beautiful waterbody all year long.
The Benefits of Aeration
SOLitude Lake Management is a nationwide environmental firm committed to providing sustainable solutions that improve water quality, enhance beauty and preserve natural resources.
SOLitude’s team of aquatic scientists specializes in the development and execution of customized lake, stormwater pond, wetland and fisheries management programs. Services include water quality testing and restoration, algae and aquatic weed control, installation and maintenance of fountains and aeration systems, shoreline erosion control, muck and sediment removal and invasive species management. SOLitude partners with homeowners associations, golf courses, private landowners, businesses and municipalities. SOLitude Lake Management is part of Rentokil, a leading business services company, operating across the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.
For more information, visit SOLitude Lake Management at solitudelakemanagement.com, and connect on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
