The Problem of Insufficient Oxygen at the Bottom of a Water Body
Oxygen is essential for the survival of aquatic life at the bottom of a pond or lake as well as the surface. In a nutrient-rich water body, a common problem is when oxygen is absorbed at the surface but cannot reach the bottom because of thermal stratification or poor circulation. The lack of oxygen limits the water body’s ability to purify on its own. In fact, the reverse can occur due to excess nutrients being recycled into the water column, which can pose significant harm to the water body.
The problem of a lack of oxygen is especially pervasive during the warmer months when oxygen consumption occurs much more rapidly than replenishment. Other contributing factors include seepage from septic tanks, animal waste and fertilizers.
What Creates Oxygen Depletion?
Agricultural runoff, shown in the photo on the left, is a primary cause of oxygen depletion. In many cases, a self-sustaining cycle that includes plant growth, nutrient enrichment and debris accumulation exacerbates the situation. Without corrective measures, the rate of oxygen consumption will ultimately outpace the rate of absorption, and fish won’t have the oxygen they need to survive. The presence of a large number of dead fish is often a telltale sign that a diffused aeration system is required.
Common Problems Resulting From Oxygen Depletion
Oxygen is an essential component of life underwater. Without the use of a lake aeration system, oxygen depletion can lead to declines in fish populations, which causes excessive growth of nuisance plants and algae. This begins a cycle in which growing plant populations consume higher amounts of the oxygen that is available, making it difficult for fish to recover.
Algae blooms are one side effect of excess nutrients and poor circulation. In addition to being aesthetically unappealing and limiting recreational activities such as fishing and swimming, algae blooms may also contain cyanotoxins — which can cause illness in humans and can be poisonous to pets and livestock. One of the best ways to avoid this and other complications is with the installation of a pond aeration system.
Diffused Aeration Can Provide the Answer
A diffused lake or pond aeration system has higher oxygen transfer rates than other commonly used methods, such as fountains and pumps. A comprehensive diffused aeration system provides up to 8,000 gpm/hr of circulation.
About the Diffused Aeration System
By adding a diffused aeration system, you’ll have an effective intervention that can restore the balance of oxygen in your lake or pond. Lake aeration systems are installed at the bottom of your pond, where they draw in air from the outside and cycle it back into the water. Over time, oxygen levels return to normal and excessive vegetation growth is controlled.
AEC offers a number of pond air diffuser systems that can be customized to the needs of your property.
Diffused pond or lake aeration systems, also known as destratification systems, have been used effectively in water bodies around the world. These systems are the most cost-effective way to induce circulation that removes stratification and provides vital oxygen to the bottom. Installing a pond or lake aeration system is the best way to ensure fish and other living organisms receive the oxygen they need throughout the year.
Models are available in 115v or 230v single-phase or three-phase units. All systems include:
- Oil-free rotary vane compressor
- Control valves
- Inlet check valve
- Pressure gauge
- Pressure relief valve
- Air stone pads
- Airline tubing
- Cooling fan
- One-year warranty
- Sound, vandal and weatherproof lockable cabinet
- Cabinet finished with avocado green paint for easy integration around the shoreline
AEC: The Leading Source for Dependable Diffused Aeration Systems
Since 1987, commercial and residential property owners have turned to Aquatic Environment Consultants, Inc. for reliable diffused aeration solutions to resolve oxygen depletion issues in their water body. The AEC staff offers more than 100 years of combined experience in helping water body owners meet and exceed their aquatic management expectations. Our team of professionals will help you select and implement the appropriate lake or pond aeration systems for your property, as well as help you identify factors that may be contributing to your oxygen issues.
Offering Affordable Diffused Aeration Solutions
Regardless of the size of your lake or pond, AEC offers affordable pond and lake aeration systems that will improve oxygen flow and help your fish thrive throughout the year. Contact us to learn more about how diffused aeration systems can make a major difference in the health of your water body!