Pond Boss Forums AERATION Systems questions Windmill aeration questions?

Would love to use the free energy of the wind for aeration, but can I? Central Arkansas is not known for a lot of wind. But it does blow sometimes. For summer aeration is 5mph enough? Will it work about 18ft deep? Will it be enough for my 2.5 acre pond? I'm thinking probably not but I could be wrong that's why I'm asking. Is there a device/monitor that can be placed on my property that could give me answers as to how much wind I potentially have to tap into?

Hi cmfulmer ~
I don't think a windmill would give you adequate dependable aeration - they are good for small ponds under an acre, and even then only if there is enough wind. When you need aeration the most is during those hot still summer days. They do look cool and surely have their place, but if there is any way you can go with electric I would definately recomend a properly sized electric system. Do you have power with in a few hundred yards?

Yes, we will put electric right next to pond. I was just thinking it would be real nice not to have to pay $30 a month to just run an aerator if the wind could produce this for free!

Understandable! I'm sure some others will chime in with their experience regarding wind mills.

cmf - to adequately circulate 2.5 acres I calculate you will need 1 windmill per every 0.75 ac or 3-4 windmills. Even then as Sue says you likely will not get much water movement during the dog days of July-Aug. I suggest an electric compressor system. It moves more water more dependably than a windmill. They do make ornamental windmill models or both windmill plus electric system as supplimental. If you get both I am positive you will see that the electric system provides much more water movement even during a good wind.

Thanks Sue and Bill. My assumptions were correct. Just wishful thinking!