Originally posted by Theo Gallus:
I'm as certain as this non-aeration, non-pond management pro can be that you don't want to run 24/7 at start up. IMHO you need to integrate the water next to that old bottom sediment into the upper levels very slowly, as it could be full of Hydrogen Sulfide from anaerobic decomposition. H2S is nasty stuff for fish if introduced to the upper water in a big dose.
I would also start with the diffuser shallower than (7.5') for the same reason. If you can tie a rope with a float onto the diffuser/bucket assembly, it should be simple to move it around from a boat to change depths. The assembly will probably be pretty stable if you have some stones in the bucket for weight. I move my airstone back and forth from shallow to deep water like this seasonally, and it's a snap to do solo in a canoe (you don't have to lift the bucket all the way out of the water).
Theo,
Is it really necessary to worry about hydrogen sulfide this early in the season? Shouldn't there still be ample D.O. in the deeper water?
Barry,
I would mount your diffuser to a plastic garbage can lid or something. Seems to me the bucket could tip over with out you even knowing it. Trust me it's hard enough with the garbage can lid!
As far as putting the compressor in a bucket it will overheat! You need air circulation around it. I built a box consisting of two by fours for legs that is surrounded by plywood. I added a vent ot each side that I found in a building supply store. Here is a pic. I didn't really worry about treated wood or cedar. They are three years old and still fine.
Here's the box and the inside.
Here's the outside of the box. Notice the vent and legs. :
