By improving oxygenation, these fountains support fish, plants, and beneficial microorganisms. They also help prevent algae growth and eliminate stagnant areas where mosquitoes breed. This makes the pond environment healthier and easier to maintain over time.

Visually, a floating fountain transforms an ordinary pond into a centerpiece. The water movement, sound, and lighting options create an inviting, serene space that adds value to any landscape, whether residential or commercial.

Here is an infographic showing 8 benefits of installing a floating fountain for your pond.

Whether it’s a small residential pond or a large commercial water feature, Kasco fountains stand out for their engineering and efficiency. They’re known for solving real pond problems while also enhancing the visual appeal of your property. And they don’t require complex installations or heavy upkeep.

Choosing the right fountain isn’t just about price, it’s about long-term value. Here’s an infographic showing 7 standout features that make Kasco pond fountains a smart investment for any pond owner.

Water stagnation kills. Without movement and oxygen exchange, your pond transforms into a toxic wasteland that destroys everything you’ve invested in. The beautiful water feature that once enhanced your property value becomes an environmental hazard that threatens the health of fish, plants, and even your family’s enjoyment of outdoor spaces.

Pond aeration serves as the lifeline your water ecosystem desperately needs. This process introduces oxygen into water through mechanical means, creating circulation patterns that prevent the deadly stratification responsible for most water quality disasters. When water moves and mixes properly, beneficial bacteria thrive while harmful organisms struggle to establish dominance.

The science behind pond aeration involves breaking surface tension and eliminating thermal layers that trap toxic gases at the bottom. Oxygen-rich water at the surface needs to reach the depths where decomposition occurs. Without this mixing, your pond develops separate zones – healthy water on top, a death zone below.

The Cascade of Problems Without Proper Oxygenation

Oxygen depletion triggers a domino effect that accelerates with frightening speed. Fish require dissolved oxygen levels above 5 parts per million to survive comfortably. When concentrations drop to 3 ppm, stress responses begin. At 2 ppm, fish start dying within hours.

Temperature changes make the situation worse. Summer heat reduces water’s ability to hold dissolved oxygen while simultaneously increasing the metabolic demands of fish and bacteria. This creates a deadly squeeze where demand rises as supply falls.

Anaerobic bacteria take over when oxygen disappears. These organisms produce hydrogen sulfide, methane, and ammonia, toxic compounds that create the characteristic rotten egg smell of dying ponds. The gases don’t just smell terrible; they poison fish gills and burn aquatic plant roots.

Algae blooms explode in oxygen-poor conditions. Blue-green algae particularly thrives in stagnant water, releasing toxins that kill fish and make water unsafe for pets or wildlife. Once established, these blooms become nearly impossible to eliminate without addressing the underlying oxygen deficit.

Sediment accumulation accelerates without proper water circulation. Organic matter settles and decomposes anaerobically, creating thick layers of toxic sludge that consume any available oxygen. This creates a feedback loop where conditions worsen exponentially over time.

Understanding Aeration Technology

Two primary aeration methods dominate the market: surface aerators and bottom diffusion systems. Each approach has distinct advantages depending on pond characteristics and specific water quality challenges.

Surface aerators function by pulling water upward and dispersing it back down in fountain-like patterns. The spray action exposes water droplets to atmospheric oxygen while creating surface turbulence that promotes gas exchange. These units work effectively in shallow ponds but struggle to address deep-water problems.

Fountain-style surface aerators provide dual benefits of oxygenation and aesthetic appeal. The visual impact often justifies the investment, even when other aeration methods might be more efficient. However, their effectiveness diminishes significantly in ponds deeper than 6 feet.

Bottom diffusion systems pump compressed air through tubing networks to weighted diffusers placed on the pond floor. Rising air bubbles create powerful circulation currents that lift oxygen-depleted water to the surface while pushing oxygenated water downward. This complete water column mixing addresses problems at their source.

Bubble patterns vary based on diffuser design. Coarse bubble diffusers move more water but transfer less oxygen per bubble. Fine bubble systems maximize oxygen transfer efficiency but require more maintenance to prevent clogging.

Compressor-driven systems provide consistent performance regardless of weather conditions. Unlike electric paddlewheels or fountains, bottom diffusers continue operating effectively during power fluctuations or mechanical problems with surface equipment.

Immediate and Long-Term Water Quality Improvements

Proper aeration delivers noticeable results within 48-72 hours of installation. Water clarity begins improving as suspended particles settle and harmful bacteria populations crash. The characteristic musty odor of stagnant water dissipates as toxic gases are expelled.

Fish behavior changes dramatically with adequate oxygen levels. Instead of gasping at the surface, fish resume normal feeding patterns and utilize the entire pond depth. Stress-related diseases decline as immune systems strengthen in properly oxygenated environments.

Beneficial bacteria populations explode when oxygen becomes available. These organisms consume organic waste, process fish excrement, and compete with harmful microbes for nutrients. The biological balance shifts toward species that maintain water quality rather than degrade it.

Plant health improves as root systems access oxygen in previously anaerobic sediments. Aquatic vegetation grows more vigorously while maintaining better color and structural integrity. Submerged plants particularly benefit from increased oxygen availability in deeper water zones.

Temperature stratification breaks down with proper circulation. Instead of distinct hot and cold layers, water temperature becomes more uniform throughout the depth profile. This prevents the formation of oxygen-depleted zones that develop in thermally stratified water bodies.

Calculating Aeration Requirements

Pond volume represents the starting point for aeration calculations, but surface area often matters more than total gallons. Oxygen exchange occurs primarily at the water surface, making wide shallow ponds easier to aerate than narrow deep ones.

Fish density dramatically affects oxygen requirements. Koi and goldfish consume significant amounts of dissolved oxygen, particularly during feeding and warm weather. Heavily stocked ponds may require double the aeration capacity of similar-sized water features with minimal fish populations.

Organic loading from leaves, fish waste, and decomposing plant material creates additional oxygen demand. Ponds surrounded by deciduous trees or those with extensive aquatic plant growth need extra aeration capacity to handle the increased biological oxygen demand.

Climate considerations influence sizing decisions. Hot climates require more aeration due to reduced oxygen solubility in warm water. Cold climates need systems capable of maintaining open water areas during ice formation.

The standard recommendation suggests 1-2 CFM of airflow per acre of surface area for average conditions. However, challenging situations may require 3-4 CFM per acre to maintain adequate oxygen levels throughout the water column.

But this is very technical information. Really, for surface information, pay attention to how much water (gallons per hour) is being circulated. Decorative fountains use nozzles to create beautiful and intricate displays, but these nozzles by their very nature reduce flow. It is important to find out how much water is flowing through the nozzle.

Aerating fountains don’t use nozzles but propellers and create a V-pattern only. These do not go up as high as decorative fountains and the display is limited to V-pattern only, but quite a bit more water flows through the system.

Installation Strategies and Maintenance Requirements

Bottom diffuser placement requires strategic positioning to maximize circulation patterns. Multiple smaller diffusers typically outperform single large units by creating broader coverage areas and reducing dead zones where water stagnation can occur. But it depends on the size of your pond. For surface aeration, the pond owner only needs to calculate square footage of the pond (length times width). But for bottom diffusion, one must calculate acre feet or total gallons. Our pond size calculator will tell you the square feet of your pond as well as acre feet and total gallons of water.

Airline routing from the compressor to the diffusers demands careful attention to prevent restrictions or damage. Weighted tubing stays submerged while maintaining smooth curves that don’t impede airflow. Sharp bends or kinks can reduce system efficiency by 30-50%.

Electrical requirements vary significantly between system types. Surface aerators need direct power connections at the pond site, while bottom diffusers allow remote compressor placement up to 500 feet away. GFCI protection remains mandatory for all pond electrical installations.

Winter operation considerations become critical in freezing climates. Continuous aeration prevents complete ice coverage that could trap toxic gases and suffocate fish. However, diffuser depth must exceed the maximum ice thickness to prevent freeze damage.

Maintenance schedules depend on system type and environmental conditions. Surface aerators require monthly cleaning of intake screens and impellers. Bottom diffusers need quarterly inspection of airline connections and annual replacement of diffuser membranes.

Compressor maintenance involves regular air filter replacement and annual lubrication of moving parts. Diaphragm compressors typically require membrane replacement every 2-3 years depending on operating hours and environmental conditions.

Cost Analysis and Return on Investment

A good garden fountain pump is the real deal. The alternative costs of pond problems far exceed aeration expenses. Fish replacement after oxygen-related kills can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. Algae treatments, bacterial additives, and water quality chemicals create ongoing expenses that proper aeration eliminates.

Property value impacts become significant with severe water quality problems. Potential buyers avoid properties with obvious pond issues, while well-maintained water features enhance outdoor living spaces and overall property appeal.

Insurance considerations may apply when pond problems create liability risks. Toxic algae blooms or fish kills that affect neighboring properties can result in expensive cleanup costs and legal complications that proper maintenance prevents.

Water quality disasters don’t announce themselves with a warning. The transition from a healthy pond to an environmental catastrophe can occur within days during adverse conditions. Aeration systems provide insurance against these rapid changes by maintaining stable oxygen levels regardless of weather patterns or seasonal fluctuations.

Your pond represents a significant investment in outdoor living space and property enhancement. Protecting that investment requires understanding the critical role oxygen plays in aquatic ecosystem health. The choice between proactive aeration and reactive problem-solving ultimately determines whether your water feature remains an asset or becomes a liability that haunts your property for years to come. Ready to enhance your fountain setup? Explore our website to see how we can help!

Frequently Asked Questions

Featured Image Source: https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1495874544969-f7bb3b4f52f3

When a pump begins to fail, symptoms may appear in subtle ways: slower water flow, strange sounds, or even murky water. These issues not only impact the beauty of your pond but can also affect fish and plant health. Fortunately, many of these problems have simple fixes if caught early.

Here is an infographic highlighting 7 warning signs that your pond pump might be underperforming.

Finding the right fountain tech company feels overwhelming when your water feature isn’t working properly. The fear of choosing the wrong contractor—one who might damage your expensive equipment or charge you thousands for unnecessary work—keeps many homeowners awake at night.

Perhaps you’ve already called a few companies. Some never returned your calls. Others quoted prices that made your wallet hurt. And that one guy who showed up seemed more interested in selling you a complete system replacement than actually fixing your problem.

You’re not alone in this frustration.

A word of caution: Working on concrete fountains is quite specialized and often it is difficult to find someone local who will work on them. It is best to find a reliable landscape company if this is the case. Pond work is also specialized and requires someone with experience, but sometimes it is difficult to find someone locally. Again, try a reputable landscape company.

Start Your Search With Local Recommendations

Your neighbors and friends who have water features are your best starting point. They’ve already walked this path and can tell you which companies showed up on time, which ones charged fair prices, and which ones actually solved their problems.

Ask specific questions when you talk to them:

• Did the technician explain what was wrong in terms you could understand?
• Were there any surprise charges after the work was done?
• How long did the repair actually take?
• Would they use the same company again?

Local landscaping supply stores often know which companies their customers recommend. The staff at these stores hear both the good and bad stories from homeowners who come in looking for parts or advice.

Check Their Credentials and Experience

Not all water feature repair companies are created equal. Some focus mainly on swimming pools and treat fountain pumps as a side business. Others specialize in decorative water features but lack experience with the specific brand of equipment you own.

Look for companies that mention fountain pumps, pond aerators, and water feature maintenance prominently on their websites. If they only talk about pool cleaning or general plumbing, they might not have the specialized knowledge your system needs.

Years in business matters, but it’s not everything. A newer company with experienced technicians who previously worked for established firms might provide better service than a company that’s been around for decades but stopped staying current with new pump technologies.

Red Flags That Should Make You Walk Away

Some warning signs appear before you even hire someone. Trust your instincts when something feels off during your initial conversations.

Companies that refuse to provide written estimates are trouble. So are the ones who demand full payment upfront or show up at your door offering to fix problems you didn’t know existed.

High-pressure sales tactics are another major red flag. A legitimate repair company won’t try to convince you that your entire system needs replacement when you called about a simple pump issue.

Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true. That rock-bottom price often comes with hidden costs that appear once the work begins. You might end up paying more than you would have with a company that provided an honest estimate from the start.

Ask the Right Questions During Your Consultation

The questions you ask potential contractors reveal a lot about their expertise and honesty. Don’t be afraid to dig deeper when their answers seem vague or evasive.

What choices of fountain pumps do they work with most often? A company that only mentions one or two brands might not have experience with your particular equipment.

How do they diagnose pump problems? Good technicians will explain their troubleshooting process and why certain steps are necessary. If they can’t explain their methods in simple terms, they might not fully understand them either.

Ask about their warranty policy for both parts and labor. Companies confident in their work typically offer reasonable warranties. Those that don’t might be planning to disappear after collecting your payment.

Understanding Fair Pricing

Fountain pump repair pricing varies widely depending on your location and the complexity of your system. But you can spot unreasonable quotes by getting estimates from multiple companies.

Be suspicious of companies that quote repair costs without seeing your system first. Every water feature setup is different, and accurate pricing requires an in-person evaluation.

The Importance of Local Knowledge

Companies familiar with your area understand local water conditions and climate challenges that affect fountain pumps. They know which brands hold up best in your region’s temperature swings and water chemistry.

Local companies also have reputations to protect in their community. They can’t afford to provide poor service because word spreads quickly in smaller markets.

Distance matters too. A company that has to drive two hours to reach your property will likely charge more and might not be available for emergency calls.

What to Expect During the Evaluation Process

A professional evaluation should be thorough but not invasive. The technician should examine your pump, electrical connections, and filtration system without dismantling everything unnecessarily.

Good technicians explain what they’re looking for and why. They point out potential problems and discuss your options before starting any work.

They also ask about your water feature’s history. When was it last serviced? Have you noticed any changes in water flow or pump noise? This information helps them diagnose problems more accurately.

Conclusion

The right fountain tech company becomes a valuable partner in maintaining your water feature. They learn your system’s quirks and can spot developing problems before they become expensive repairs.

Some companies offer maintenance contracts that include regular inspections and cleaning. These agreements often save money compared to emergency repair calls.

A good working relationship also means faster response times when you do need help. Companies prioritize customers they know and trust.

Your water feature should bring you joy, not stress. The right fountain tech company makes that possible by keeping your system running smoothly and your mind at ease.

Ready to enhance your fountain setup? Explore our website to see how we can help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Featured Image Source: https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1601784626964-4ef08a664ae4

Without adequate aeration, ponds can develop foul odors, excessive algae growth, and poor water clarity. A well-designed pond aeration system enhances oxygen exchange, promotes beneficial bacteria, and improves overall water health. Investing in proper aeration ensures long-term sustainability and prevents costly pond maintenance issues.

Understanding the benefits of pond aeration can help pond owners make informed decisions for better water management. Here is an infographic outlining 6 key benefits of pond aeration.

But cables that are too thinly gauged do not run efficiently and also create a safety hazard as the wire and insulation heat up, deteriorate over time, or fail completely. 220-240 volt pumps require thinner-gauged cords to run long lengths than lower voltage pumps do.

Scott Fountains has created this handy table that helps customers who buy their fountains determine how thick of gauge is needed for their 1/3HP to 3 HP pumps. Note: distance is not from pond outlet to the motor. Rather, the customer needs to know the distance from the main breaker to the motor! That is the total run of the wire! For a 1/2 HP motor using 12-gauge wire on 115 volts, the maximum distance from the motor to the main panel is 160′! If you are using a 230- volt pump, that distance increases to 650′! Moving to the 3HP option, only available in 230V, if using 12-gauge wire the maximum run from pump to main breaker is 190′. But if using 10-gauge cable, that length increases to 300′. If 6-gauge is used, the distance increases to 750′!

Though the table created by Scott is of great help with their fountains obviously, it is also useful to look at even if you are purchasing a unit by another manufacturer. However, you will need to know the motor amperage. When buying a pond fountain, consult the manufacturer’s specifications. Again, the total run from the main power source to the motor is what is important. For example, if you have 14-gauge wire running from your main power source to the outlet at the pond’s edge, then that run will need to be short. Electricity will need to travel all the way from the main power source to the motor in the pond.

It is crucial the homeowner or commercial developer calculate the distance from the main breaker to the motor. Once that distance is known, and the gauge of wire running from main breaker to the outlet for the pond’s motor, we can help you determine what gauge wire your pump needs to have for optimal performance. It is essential we know the amperage or wattage and the voltage of the motor you will be using. We are not trying to make things complicated, only to help you get the best possible fountain for your property.

Note: You might also find useful our pond size calculator and electrical use calculator.

Maximum Cable Length in Feet from Motor to Main Power for Scott Motors (Motor Amps Varies by Manufacturer)

Now a certain amount of aeration occurs naturally, for example, as a result of wind. But often pond owners need to add oxygen to the pond by installing a floating fountain, either a decorative fountain or an aerating fountain.

Many, or perhaps most, pond owners believe they can determine aeration of a pond by horsepower of the motor. This is often an inaccurate way to determine how much aeration will occur. What matters is the flow rate. You see, pond fountains aerate by pushing up water outside of the pond, where the water bubbles mix with oxygen and then fall back into the pond. So what matters is how much water flow is pushed outside of the pond into the atmosphere and then returns to the pond.

Some 1 HP pumps only have a flow rate of 7,000 gallons per hour, whereas some 1/2HP pumps have a flow rate of over 10,000 gallons per hour. In addition the pump’s flow rate is not the same as the net flow rate. With decorative fountains, for instance, which use impellers and nozzles, the nozzles by design restrict flow rate, as the water released must flow through the nozzle’s holes. Nozzles decrease overall flow rate by design. Aerating fountains, by contrast, do not have nozzles but use a propeller, so their flow rates are different. The featured image of this post is a closeup of a Kasco aerating fountain. You can see by the image that flow rate will be high.

Let’s say you have a 1/2 HP pump with a pump flow rate of 10,000 gallons per hour. If a nozzle is used, the flow rate will be restricted by it. The pump flow rate of 10,000 gallons per hour might be reduced by the nozzle to 4,000 or 5,000 gallons per hour. An aerating fountain will not have as much restriction; still, if the pump flows are 10,000 gallons per hour even an aerating fountain will reduce flow rate by a certain degree.

Likewise, claims about horsepower are also quite suspicious. Very high horsepower ratings claims are often made about very small pumps that use very low wattage. That’s not possible since the pump’s horsepower and wattage are related. We suspect some companies are citing input horsepower but really what’s more accurate of what a pump is accomplishing is output horsepower.

We are not trying to over-complicate things for the customer, but we would like to remind that aeration depends on net flow rate, not horsepower.

1. Appeal For Your Eyes

Outdoor pond fountains are the most classic beauty symbols that can make even the simplest gardens round off to a beautiful getaway. Whether your preference is toward contemporary clean cut or sophisticated classical, a pump fountain designed to match it is available. The various features, from tiered waterfalls to skinny gushers, serve to make fountains visually appealing.

The moving imagery of water has a calming effect which would be great for relaxing after an exhausting day. In addition, the blend of light and water gives life to the garden, allowing it to move while adding energy. In addition, garden fountains are adaptable in style, enabling them to integrate remotely into any garden and serving as a striking feature that acts as a centerpiece to the whole scenery.

2. Supporting a Positive Environment

An outdoor pond fountain does not serve only as an ornament but rather is a crucial appendage to your pond’s biological life environment. Having water circulated offers optimal aeration, which allows the oxygen levels in the pond to remain under control. This aeration is essential to the well-being of the fish and the growth of the vegetation as well as the elimination of algae. Moreover, fountains reduce the adverse effects of water that is not moving. Make sure the water remains in motion so that debris doesn’t accumulate on the surface, water stagnate, and detrimental bacteria growth. Proper aeration will help the growth of “good” bacteria instead.

Consequently, the pond becomes a better habitat for various organisms/environments. Another appealing benefit is the reduced amount of unpleasant smells usually caused by still water, making your garden even more pleasant to spend time in.

3. Curbing Algae Spread

A beautiful pond can quickly get ruined by algae. The fountains that are used outdoors in ponds come to the rescue by ensuring that the water remains in motion. The constant movement disrupts the stillness and overexposure of the sun that algae require to grow.

Such movement helps to reduce not only the growth of algae but also enables a clean and clear water structure. In this regard, Chemclear treatment can be minimized, hence increasing the ease of maintenance of the pond. In the long run, a pond fountain will enhance natural aeration, thus controlling algae growth and saving time and money, enabling you to utilize the pond without any additional costs for maintenance.

4. White Noise and Stress Relief

People find water soothing, whether they want to concentrate or relax. The tranquil environment created by the outdoor pond fountains facilitates relaxation, transforming your garden into a peaceful retreat. The splashing water provides audio white noise that drowns out distractions such as traffic or shouting neighbors.

Be it meditation, reading, or sipping delicious tea, a pond fountain enhances the experience significantly. It is quite understandable as to why and how water features accomplish stress relief alongside augmenting mental health. It can transform your garden into your one-stop nature therapy center.

5. Enhancing Real Estate Value

Considerably, a garden alongside a pond and water fountain is a great benefit of any property that boosts its value. Most buyers would prefer purchasing a property with peculiar features that make it more impressive and a pond fountain does exactly that.

Water features provide an essence of elegance as well as consideration of the effort followed by attention towards the outdoor areas of the house. Investing in a pond water fountain would not only raise your enjoyment level of the garden but also boost the appeal of your property on the market in the longer run.

6. Assisting in the Conservation of Wildlife

Outdoor pond fountains are a good source of wildlife since they can attract birds, butterflies, and other animals into your garden. Water is an important resource for animals and the sound, and movement serve as a good encouragement for bathing and drinking. Such animal interactions increase the variety of living organisms in your garden which further leads to a balanced ecosystem as Darwin would put it.

Having wildlife in your yard makes it more pleasing to the eye and also interesting. Witnessing birds taking a bath at the fountain or butterflies flying near the water can also be amusing while giving you pleasure. A pond fountain does not only beautify the garden; it also becomes a home for nature by transforming it into a nature fountain. Selecting the right pond pump is crucial for maintaining water clarity, circulation, and the overall health of your pond ecosystem.

7. Garden Feature Usability for All Seasons

An outdoor pond fountain is not seasonal;  thus it can be enjoyed all year round and requires low maintenance. During the summer months, they can be refreshing and they serve as a good visual during the heat. During winter, the still or slow flow of the water can be appealing by transforming the garden during the wintertime. A word of caution: During icy winters, most fountain manufacturers, with the exception of Scott, recommend removing the fountain to prevent damage.

Fountains today have low retention and context sensitivity which enables them to work optimally and retain their aesthetic throughout the year. However, if the fountain is taken care of, one can always enjoy it no matter the season as his or her garden will always be at the center of attention.

8. Customization Options

The most notable perk for outdoor pond fountains is the ability to customize them with ease. From differing designs, sizes, and water patterns, these fountains are unique and cater to any type of garden. Be it a small pond in your backyard or a large landscape, these fountains are tailor-made to match your needs.

Additional features can also be included, for example, LED lighting which creates a beautiful atmosphere during night time. This type of flexibility gives you the option to make any changes you would like to in order to match the existing structures of your garden, making sure that the fountain fits perfectly and looks beautiful.

9. Encouraging Outdoor Gatherings

An outdoor pond fountain is not just an addition to the features in a garden, but rather it serves as a talk piece. If you’re having a family barbecue or a garden party, the presence of a fountain will only beautify the occasion even further.

Fountains create an environment that is quiet and peaceful, and that would encourage people to enjoy the atmosphere even more. It creates an amazing backdrop for eating, celebrating, or even just talking with friends and family. With a pond fountain, you can turn your garden into a welcoming place for all types of events.

10. Installation and Maintenance of the Fountains Have Never Been So Easy

Depending on the make and model, outdoor fountain installation can be quite a trouble. However, we are thankful for the modern outdoor pond fountain models which come equipped with modern plug-and-play features meaning that installation will require the least amount of time and effort.

Outdoor fountain maintenance is extremely easy due to the plethora of guides and instructions available that focus on caring for and maintaining the outdoor fountain. If you regularly care for the fountain, clean the pump and remove any remaining debris, it will last you a long while. Avoid making common installation mistakes, like incorrect leveling, incorrect placement of pumps etc. and the contemporary outdoor pond fountains can last a lifetime.

Conclusion

Outdoor fountains can transform your garden design by adding functionality and elegance. If you enjoy aesthetics, healthy environments, noise control or fountains in general, you are in for a treat. Transforming your garden will never be easier, with an outdoor pond fountain you can achieve an environment of serenity and elegance which is practical at the same time.

So why wait? Investment in each of the many outdoor pond fountains available will blow your mind with how effective they are. Add the excitement of constantly flowing water and enhance the charms of your garden.

Ready to enhance your fountain setup? Explore our website to see how we can help!

Frequently Asked Questions

However, pond fountains offer surface aeration only. Because the motor only pulls up water from shallow depths, much of the pond is unaerated if the pond is deep. This lack or aeration will contribute to the build up of muck at the bottom of the pond and might even result in a fish kill, in which hundreds or thousands of fish can die in a matter of hours. For deep ponds, the pond’s health requires subsurface, or bottom, aeration, using a compressor, weighted tubing, and diffuser plates.

As a general rule of thumb, if your pond is greater than seven feet deep, on average, proper aeration requires the use of subsurface (diffuser) aeration.

The Costs and Benefits of Pond Fountains

*Pond Fountains aerate less efficiently than diffuser systems. They use more electricity than a compressor to accomplish aeration.

*Pond fountains cannot aerate deep layers of the pond, resulting in stratification and lack of oxygen.

*Most pond fountains need to be removed during icy winters.

*Fountains need to be placed at relatively short distances from the nearest electrical outlet.

*Very large ponds or lakes require a large number of fountains to aerate, meaning a high purchase price as well as high electrical costs.

*But pond fountains are beautiful to look at. That is a real plus.

The Costs and Benefits of a Diffuser System (bottom aeration)

*There is no display to beautify the pond since the action is happening below the surface.

*Bottom aeration does not work in shallow ponds.

*The good news is that bottom aeration is quite efficient. Even small compressors can oxygenate large bodies of water at low costs of electricity.

*Aeration can take place long distances from the nearest electrical outlet. Kasco diffuser systems allow tubing to run up to a mile from the power source.

*Kasco diffuser systems do not need to be hauled in during icy winters. In fact, it is best to use them during freezing weather to keep the pond oxygenated.

*Diffuser systems can aerate very large ponds and lakes of ten acres and more. Kasco, in fact, offers systems up to 12 diffusers combined with four 1/2 HP compressors in a large cabinet. Tubing can be purchased in 500 ft. rolls for large systems.

Combining the Two Types of Aeration

          If you wish to display a fountain but your pond is too deep to aerate with surface (fountain) aeration, you can always use both a fountain and a bottom aeration (diffuser) system.

Why We Choose Kasco for Bottom Aeration

          Kasco diffuser systems have been repeatedly independently tested to be superior to all other diffuser systems on the market for aeration efficiency and effectiveness. For advice on what diffuser system is best for your particular need, we look up your address on Google Earth to get the layout of the pond. We also ask for maximum and average depth of water in your pond or lake. We then calculate pond size to determine acre feet and total gallons of water in your pond. As a rule of thumb, the goal in a five acre pond or smaller is to turnover the water once every 24 hours.