Pond Boss Forums AERATION Systems questions Winterization & Algae

If you are not trying to push heated moisture laden air through your cold or subfreezing air lines then you should have no problems. Those who aerate near me have all kinds of piping set-ups and if you dont use them in winter there seems to be no problem if they freeze solid in ice or remain below water or frost line. I have even left quality garden hose used as an airline exposed to winter for several years with little apparent damage. If you still have specific questions about this, form a question and I will address it.

After rereading your Aug 19 post. I think the rigid PVC could be subjected to possibly more damage from ice or UV rays and become brittle quicker or easier than a black polyethylene type tubing. This stuff comes in potable and nonpotable water versions; nonpotable being cheapest.

Do you have a reason why you chose PVC over the black poly pipe which is designed for underground installation? A simple hose barb (plastic or nylon) with clamps could then be used as a coupling between the two air lines. Blk poly pipe is very durable UV resistant and readily withstands freezing.

Snow removal for a pond such as yours would only need about 20% to 30% of the snow removed at least for the first 4 - 5 winters or until you have or develop excessive organics buildup on the bottom going into winter. If you aerate in summer organic build-up should always be minimal.

At a minimum, I recommend you remove snow in 3 strips (1. down the middle, 2. mid way on right side and 3. and mid way on left side). Strips shold be about 4 to 6 feet wide and parallel to the mid-day angle of the sun.

If your water is fairly clear after freeze up (most ponds are) then a 2' to 3' strip around the perimeter over 3 - 4 ft of water also allows light to hit the bottom along the margins and the littoral attached algae growth will make ample oxygen in the shallows.