Hello, I read a bunch of your posts about solar powered aeration systems and was wondering if you could give some advice on my situation. Want to have an ice-free pond for duck hunting. Looking for a do it yourself solar powered set up. You seemed to know what you were talking about with all the specs for different scenerios. Can't find anyone in my state who can help me with this. If your willing to give some advice it would be appreciated. Thanks Damon

Damon, I read the posts re: your duck pond. Get the experts to size a system for you, asking them to spec the most efficient compressor. Since you want to run it 24/7 a 12vdc unit would probably be more efficient. The reason I say this, is if you want it to cycle on and off I would suggest an AC unit. I havent found an appropriate DC timer, but havent looked very hard. You can dig a small part of the pond deeper just to get more water moving, but if too deep that will require a larger compressor. Let the aeration experts advise. Get the specs on the compressor and I can tell you what you need to run it.

B, Thanks for the reply. I am new to this stuff so I am still figuring out all the components. Wondering what I need for components. If i understand it right, I need a solar panel to charge up some deep cycle marine batteries which would run a compressor or pump which would push air through a tube to a diffuser. Is this the basic system or did I leave something out? What do you think of the self weighing tubing with the holes throughout them for opening up a ice -free hole? Also, would need a diffuser or would a what I would call a bubble machine to blow bigger bubbles do a better job. Thanks Damon

B, What are some good companies to work with to find a compressor and a little expertise? What components do I need to ask about, just a compressor or should I ask about diffusers etc. If I find the right size compressor would you feel confident in helping me rig up a solar system to run it? Also, What is a ideal depth for maximum ice-free surface area. Right now it is approx. 75 yards long, 15 yards wide, 2 ft deep I will be redigging it this spring a little wider and definitely deeper, I was thinking 25 yards wide and 4-5 ft deep. Any thoughts? Thanks Damon

Let the experts that already posted and/or advertise in PB mag.advise. I can advise on the power part. One thing against you that works with the typical summer evening solar aeration is that there is about 1/2 the sun hrs. Maybe you wont have to run it 24/7 and let the batteries charge up some during the day. First, listen to the people that have worked these scenarios thru, then, I can help.

B, Thanks, I'll ask around and get back to you. Damon