All fountains regardless of the length of the draw tube throw water into the air. Water weighs 8.3 lbs /gallon which is quite heavy and requires lots of energy based on how much and how high the water is pushed. This high work load puts undue stress on the fountain motors-pumps which often have comparatively short life spans and more maintenance compared to electric air compressors considering how much water is moved per kilowatt of electricity. The diagram does not take into account efficiency and electrical usage. Plus the diagram of the unit with long draw tube does not spread the circulation out to large areas of the pond as noted by the water flow - movement pattern - limited lateral circulation; mostly the force is up and down not outward. The main water circulation force is up (fountain) and down gravity of the spray pattern. IMO the diagram is biased to sell a concept. You want efficient water mixing, use air lift technology; you want aesthetics use a fountain. You want high oxygen transfer use a special paddlewheel aerator or similar unit.
Last edited by Bill Cody; 06/16/13 05:25 PM.
