I wonder if you all have any suggestions for an economical bottom diffuser aeration system for a pond that is approximately:

- 1/4 acre (100' in diameter, 325,000 gallons, and 1.0 acre foot); and
-6-7 feet deep at current maximum depth (about 75% of the pond is 6 feet deep).

The system I like is about $1300. Maybe that's reasonable but it seems awfully expensive to me.

What's your defination of economical? Do you want something that doesnt' cost much up front? Do you want something that might not do as well of a job (I say "might" because parts of the system have not been tested to see how many GPH it moves)? How much sweat equity are you willing to put in to making a system yourself? If something breaks, can you fix it yourself?

Like what has been said before. There's MUCH more that goes into an aeration system than putting something in the pond that blows bubbles.

If you are willing to do a lot of the work yourself in regards to putting a system together yourself, sourcing all the pieces/parts, etc. then look at the DIY RC51 system that he built and chronicled here.

Hi Greyhound:

I am in the process of building a pond that is about the same as your dimensions, albeit double the depth. I just ordered this system:

http://www.cleanponds.com/product_info.php?products_id=212

I dealt with Ted Lea. He is a regular on our forum. Very knowledgable and he was a pleasure to deal with. I suggest you contact him and start a discussion about the specifics of your situation.

Good luck with your quest.

Backstroke

P.S.

Where in New England are you? I'm in central NH.

Giving Ted a call is a very good suggestion.

Thanks Backstroke! I will look into that. I am in RI.

I will look for the thread by RC51. I am not sure how I define economical! Cheap enough that my husband won't divorce me! Less than $500 would be far more comfortable than $1300. We would be willing to do it ourselves depending on how involved the project is- the last thing we need is another project. We are fairly handy.

Can anyone tell me what Ted Lea's screen name is? Thanks.

Sure! Click on the blue "User List" that is above. Then click on the members with names that begin with "T". Search for Ted Lea FOREVERGREEN and I'll bet you'll find him.

Note sent, sorry I did not see this until today.

Too much. Ridiculous price for a 1/4 acre pond. Ted or others should be able to get you a better price for a pond that small. Remember you can easily build a ventilated box yourself out of plywood and 2X4's for legs.

All you need is the compressor, an airline, and diffuser, and like I said just build your box to keep the compressor dry.

One thing that makes no sense to me is the retailers with the outrageous mark ups are discouraging people from aerating their ponds. Seems to me they are only hurting themselves.

I have contacted Ted and he has been super helpful! I highly recommend!