The problem is that warm water rises in the same way that warm air does, and stays on the top of the pond, while the colder water stays below. Eventually the lower levels of water are depleted of oxygen, which makes it impossible for beneficial bacteria to decompose the dead leaves, rotting vegetation, and fish wastes that collect at the bottom.

Fountains are driven by pumps and may be enhanced by lights and even music. You can choose a fountain for its pattern, or get one with as many as five different settings. Called surface aerators, fountains come in many sizes, and a useful one for a pond will have a motor of one horsepower or less. Most fountains need more power than can be supplied by a single solar panel, which produces enough turbulence to stir the water but will not have much lifting power.

Stirring water is important, because warn water rises to the top in the same way that warm air rises. A pond will become stagnant when cold water stays at the bottom and gradually is depleted of oxygen. The lack of air at the bottom is bad for the fish, kills the beneficial bacteria that help decompose wastes, and encourages the growth of algae and pest plants like duckweed. Pond water will become cloudy, insects can breed more freely, and foul odors may develop.

Deeper ponds are aerated by diffusers, which are designed to work from the bottom of the pond. Pressurized air is sent from am on-shore air compressor to the diffuser, which may be a disc, a porous rock, or a series of tubes. As the air rises in bubbles, the water is stirred and oxygen is also released as the air rises. Smaller bubbles work more efficiently.

While the pump of a fountain may be submerged out of sight, an air compressor must be on shore, protected from the elements. The diffuser comes with an optional protective cabinet if needed, to sit on the bank or be mounted on a post. The units may be run by electricity, gas, or solar or wind power.

For several hundred dollars, you can keep your pond clean and healthy for fish and other recreational uses, avoid unnecessary sediment build-up, and keep water clear and free of excessive algae. The environment will be good for fish and the plants you want, while not promoting algae blooms, bad odors, and the breeding of mosquitoes.

pond aerators

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-Also, I’ve been told that plants native to my area are easier so just for your information: I’m in Southeast Tennessee.