Part 2 – Lake Depth more than 10 ft.
In our May Aquabytes, we discussed how aquatic fountains and aerators, whether surface or sub-surface, can do much to improve the water quality of a shallow lake or pond. A well designed and placed aeration system increases the dissolved oxygen within the water column which is necessary for maintaining good water quality.
Improving the overall oxygen levels in a body of water helps the entire ecosystem by enhancing the available oxygen for the micro-fauna and micro-flora. The process of increasing the oxygen level in your waterbody also serves to reduce the levels of nutrients that promote undesirable algae growth.
There are three basic types of pond and lake aerators: surface spray aerators, air diffused systems, and horizontal mixers. Additionally, fountains are often a desired solution but with slightly different benefits. Each type has unique differences and efficiencies which can be utilized in several ways to achieve maximum benefit. For the remainder of this article, we fill focus on the best aeration solutions for lakes with a depth more than 10ft.
Air Diffused Systems
Also referred to as “bubblers”, air diffused systems are most effective and efficient in waters that are deeper than 10 ft. These depths lend to more efficient lift and mixing from the micro bubbles emitted at the pond or lake bottom. As the bubbles rise through the water column at about one foot per second, they can entrain or lift the bottom waters to the surface creating a convection current.
Diffused aeration systems are best used for this “bottom up” lifting ability bringing the cooler dense bottom waters to the surface and exposing it to the atmosphere for oxygen transfer. Their efficiency is greatly reduced in shallower water and need to be properly sized to get the maximum benefits.
Fountains
While fountains are typically more effective providing surface aeration on ponds that are 10 feet or less, they are occasionally used to provide visual appeal first and secondarily, aeration. A fountain is the contrary—by capping off the high pumping rate and channeling the pressurized water through various chambers or nozzles you get decorative patterns. Any time you break the surface tension of the water, such as the splashing of a rain drop or the wave-like action created by wind you will achieve oxygen transfer, so a fountain will have some aeration qualities. However, a fountain’s Achilles’ heel is its low pumping rate rendering it inefficient when it comes to beneficial aeration for lakes and ponds.
When looking for both visual appeal and lake health in ponds and lakes deeper than 10 ft, a combination system may be most beneficial. Utilizing the strengths of an air diffused system with a decorative fountain to provide top side aeration can keep your lake healthy. At Aquascape Environmental, our expert team can assess your lakes current health and provide custom solutions for your needs. We can design and install your system from one of our top quality vendors.
If you would like to learn more, please reach out to us at anytime at (678) 445-0077
