The low oxygen content in stagnant water bodies impairs the quality of the water, making it unsuitable for the life of fish and other organisms. To prevent stagnation of water, flowering and deterioration of its characteristics, use special devices - aerators. We find out what they are, and whether they can be made independently.
What is an aerator and what is it for?
Aerator - a hydromechanical device that saturates water with oxygen. Fishes and other living organisms living in water bodies need a certain concentration of oxygen for life. Lack of air negatively affects the health of all living things. Thanks to the aerator, ponds filled with life are created from stagnant, foul-smelling reservoirs - with fish, shellfish, water lilies and other attributes of a safe reservoir.
How does he work?
In nature, the saturation of water with oxygen occurs due to the natural movement of water. In artificial reservoirs, especially in winter, stagnation of water masses is observed.
What the aerator does:
- Mixes layers of water by creating artificial flows.
- Cleans water from impurities and impurities, makes it transparent.
- Eliminates unpleasant odor.
- Cleans ponds from algae.
- Reduces the number of midges and mosquitoes.
- In winter, forms a wormwood, through which harmful gases leave.
What does the aerator consist of?
Typically, a pond aeration system consists of:
- compressor;
- air nozzles with 4 mm connecting nipple;
- a multiplier with 4 mm fittings at the outlet - connects the nozzles to the compressor;
- silicone hoses with an inner diameter of 8/4 mm - connects the inlet of the breeder with the compressor / breeder with sprayers.
The compressor models are equipped with multipliers with the number of output channels corresponding to the maximum capacity of the device.
- spring-type check valves - they are installed in front of the sprayers, their task is to prevent freezing of aeration hoses in the winter.
The nuances of the design of the aerator depend on its type and principle of operation. For stocked ponds usually use vortex compressors. The table shows the types of compressors that differ in the principle of operation, and the features of their application.
Features of the use of compressors of various types
Types of compressor | For reservoirs, cubic m | When apply | Noisiness | Application |
Membrane | up to 15 | all year round | low noise | decorative ponds |
Piston | from 10 to 300 | all year round | medium noise | decorative ponds |
Whirlwind | from 150 | all year round | noisy | fish ponds |
Machine selection criteria
The aerator is not cheap, but the cost of buying it is not comparable with the problems that arise in a body of water with standing water. Regardless of the purpose of the reservoir - decorative or domestic, water aeration is necessary. The industry produces aerators of various types - they differ not only in names, but also in the principle of operation.
When choosing a compressor, the dimensions of the reservoir are taken into account - each device is designed for a specific volume of water. What else you need to know about oxygen saturation of water:
- The amount of oxygen in the water must meet the needs of the fish - its excess is as harmful as lack.
- Oxygen demand varies with the time of year.
- The type of aerator, its design and principle of operation is selected in accordance with the purpose of the pond.
Choosing an aerator, it is evaluated by such indicators:
- compressor power;
- noisiness
- boundary temperatures for use of the device.
The cost of aerators for small decorative ponds is 4-10 thousand rubles. A device for a large stocked pond is ten times more expensive - about 100 thousand rubles.
The optimal ratio of compressor capacity to water volume is 1 l / h per 1 liter of water.
There is no exact formula for choosing a compressor. For each specific pond, the device is selected taking into account many factors:
- stocking density;
- the presence of water plants;
- water temperature;
- biochemical composition of the soil;
- depth of the pond;
- the presence of shallow water;
- bottom configuration;
- the presence of shade above the water surface.
If the aerator is purchased for the first time, and it is not known what power will be optimal, start with a 40-60 Watt device. By installing an aerator, monitor the concentration of oxygen in the spray zone through special tests. With insufficient oxygen concentration, additional compressors are acquired - their quantity and power are determined empirically.
For aeration to be of high quality, it is necessary that the daily water flow of the system is four times the largest volume of the pond.
Under certain circumstances, it is necessary to increase the capacity of the aeration system by increasing the number of aerators in the pond if:
- the reservoir is oversaturated with algae;
- organic matter along with storm water enters the reservoir;
- the reservoir has an irregular shape - this makes it difficult to mix the water.
On average, for every 10,000 square meters. m of water surface requires at least one aerator.
By sight
All aerators by type of installation are divided into two large groups:
- Stationary Capital devices installed in a specific reservoir. Work - permanent or in a certain mode.
- Mobile These are devices for temporary, seasonal use. They can be moved from place to place, installed in different reservoirs. Such devices are usually used in ponds of a small area, as well as in reservoirs that do not need constant oxygenation.
By location
According to the principle of operation and location, aerators are divided into the following groups:
- Superficial. These are compressors that create streams of water in the form of fountains or waterfalls. Such a spectacular option is more interesting for a decorative pond. Inhabitants of water bodies can cause constant noise discomfort - this must be taken into account when choosing the type of aerator. The surface installation works simply - the pump draws in a portion of water, and then, giving it acceleration, throws it back. When water enters the air, it captures oxygen and, falling into the pond, replenishes its oxygen balance.
- Ejectors. These devices work almost the same as surface ones. But ejectors do not absorb water, but simply set it in motion. The blades, driven by the engine, hit the water with force - as a result of this, water is mixed and air bubbles are created. Ejectors, like surface aerators, are quite noisy.
- Combined. The compression unit is located on the shore, the spray is in the pond. From the head of the atomizer, which is usually located on the surface of the water surface, a water stream flows, which, when falling, saturates the water with oxygen.
- Wind. This is a standalone device. To work, he does not need electricity - he is powered by wind energy. There are two design options - stationary or floating units. The design consists of blades - they are located on the surface of the water, and a screw - it is under water. The blades rotated by the wind transmit torque to the screws, thanks to which the water mixes and boils.
- Bottom line. This is a relatively new type of aerator. The most effective device to date. The compressor remains to work and make noise on the shore, and only the tube and diffusers are immersed in water. Water exiting through holes of small diameter passes through layers of water. The pond receives oxygen, and the layers of water are constantly mixed. This type of aerator is ideal for fish ponds. The disadvantage is the high cost.
Surface aerator
Ejectors
Combined Aerator
Wind aerators
Bottom aerator
Model Overview
Today, aerators are widely represented on the market - you can choose a model for a reservoir of any size. Consider several modern models.
AquaAir 250
This is a powerful floating type aerator designed for ponds with an area of up to 250 square meters. m. Air from it penetrates to a depth of 4 m. The device is able to transform a pond with stagnant water into a body of water with running water. The device supports the biological balance of the ponds and protects them from flowering.
Features of the model:
- equipped with an adjustable injection nozzle - ensures the accuracy of oxygen supply;
- It has a high flow rate;
- suspension and pump casing - stainless steel;
- low noise level;
- thanks to a sealed pump, the device has a long service life.
Specifications AquaAir 250:
Specifications | Parameters |
Dimensions (LxWxH), mm | 725 x 555 x 310 |
The volume of the pumped-over air, l / h | 30000 |
Minimum reservoir depth, m | 0,5 |
Power consumption | 650 |
The maximum volume of the pond, l | 250 000 |
Weight, kg | 28 |
Cable length m | 30 |
Average price, rub | 186 000 |
ROBUST AIR RAE-1
A bottom type aerator designed for a pond with an area of up to 4,000 square meters. The kit consists of:
- compressor;
- bottom sprayer;
- metal stand for the compressor.
Specifications ROBUST AIR RAE-1:
Specifications | Parameters |
Productivity, l / h | 5400 |
Compressor size, cm | |
The size of the bottom sprayer, cm | |
Maximum immersion depth, m | 6,8 |
Average price, rub. | 145 000 |
Advantages and features of the model:
- ideal for ponds up to 15 m deep;
- economical - by means of compressed air continuously mixes water, spending a minimum of energy;
- possible year-round use.
Airmax PS 10
A bottom type aerator for small reservoirs up to 6.5 m deep and up to 4000 sq. M. Single diffuser model. Noisiness - 51.1 dB at a distance of 1.5 m.
Specifications Airmax PS 10:
Specifications | Parameters |
Productivity, l / hour | 3908 |
The maximum depth of the reservoir, m | 6,5 |
Minimum reservoir depth, m | 1,8 |
Dimensions (LxWxH), cm | 58 x 43 x 38 |
Power, W | 184 |
Weight, kg | 37 |
price, rub. | 171 000 |
Advantages and features of the model:
- The case reliably protects internal parts from water and mechanical damage.
- The case has a camouflage aesthetics - it is almost invisible in landscape design.
AirFlow 25 F
Aerator floating type. Able to create a powerful stream of oxygenated water.
Technical characteristics of AirFlow 25 F:
Specifications | Parameters |
The volume of pumped water, cubic m / hour | 75 |
The volume of pumped air, cubic m / hour | 10 |
Minimum reservoir depth, m | 0,65 |
Dimensions (LxWxH), cm | 980 x 750 x 680 |
Power, W | 250 |
Weight, kg | 37 |
price, rub. | 131 000 |
Features of AirFlow 25 F:
- air injection is provided by the Venturi effect;
- the device is economical - consumes a minimum of energy;
- you can change the direction of flow;
- allowed to use in sea water.
Each aerator model is accompanied by individual instructions for use. Most of the instructions are in the language of the producing countries, so they should be translated first.
Can I assemble the aerator with my own hands?
Pond aerators, especially designed for large areas, cost more than 100,000 rubles. If the owner of the pond has the skills to work with equipment and tools, you can save money by assembling the aerator with your own hands. Consider the processes of assembling devices of various types.
How to assemble an ejector aerator?
What you need to stock up on:
- drainage pump;
- sewer pipe d 32 mm - 2 m and nozzle - 30-50 cm;
- angled tee at an angle of 45 degrees;
- corner at 45 degrees;
- double braided wire.
The pump is selected average power and cost, taking into account the area of aeration. The cable is taken with a cross section so that it can withstand the power of the consumed current, even during continuous operation.
Build process:
- The pump is usually completed with an angular branch and the union under a hose. Seals are inserted into the sewer tee and connected to the fitting. You can use silicone sealant to seal the joint.
- A pipe is attached to the second side of the tee.
- An angle of 45 ° is placed in the upper branch, and a 2-meter pipe is attached to it.
- It remains to connect the resulting design with an angular adapter of the pump.
- Lead the cable. Cut the plug. The wires are twisted, wrapping with electrical tape. Then they are hidden in the coupling, pouring polymer. If you do not cut the plug, you will have to use an extension cord. In this case, the socket with the plug is packed in polyethylene, and tightly wrapped with electrical tape.
- The pump is placed at a depth of 70-100 cm. The intake pipe should be on the surface of the water. To do this, make a mast - from a steel pipe. They drive it into the ground.
- It is advisable to place the pump in a mesh container. The aerator is attached to the mast with wire. Now you can supply electricity.
A 90 degree tee must not be used. If the angle is 45 degrees, then the air, being drawn in, moves and mixes with water. If the angle is 90 degrees, there is a risk of return air movement.
How to assemble a bottom aerator?
The assembly of such an aerator will cost inexpensively. For this design, you need a car compressor with a receiver. Also stocked:
- hose for high pressure;
- clamp;
- tees;
- spray guns.
Sprayers can be made from half-liter polyethylene bottles. It is enough to make holes in them with an awl. To reduce the diameter of the emerging bubbles, the bottles are wrapped with foam.
Assembly line of a homemade bottom aerator:
- The compressor is installed near the pond or in some nearby extension.
- The compressor is connected to a central hose, which is pulled to a pond.
- By means of tees, bends are made. The number of taps corresponds to the number of nozzles. Fixation reinforced brackets.
- Diffusers attached to tees are placed at the bottom of the pond. To avoid lifting to the surface, they are crushed with stones or fixed with pins bent at the ends.
Bottom aerators cannot work without a break. The devices also make noise, causing discomfort to others. Such devices are usually used for periodic saturation of water with oxygen.
How to make an aerator with your own hands is shown in the video below:
How to assemble a wind aerator?
Wind turbines are especially good for winter time. The assembly process is simple and does not require expensive parts. You will need:
- metal sheet - a square with a side of 30 cm;
- steel rod, d 20 mm;
- bearings of the appropriate section;
- strips made of metal (thickness - 2 mm);
- capacity made of plastic;
- fan;
- fasteners.
Build Order:
- 8 squares are cut from a metal sheet. Cubes are made of them. Cross members are placed inside the cubes, a hole is made in it and a bearing is placed. Bearing centers must be on one straight line.
- The rod is inserted into the bearings.
- The capacity of plastic is cut in half - these will be the blades for rotating the shaft.
- Using metal loops, the blades are mounted on the top of the rod.
- Support legs are welded to the structure.
- At the end of the shaft, a radiator propeller is fixed.
- Now the structure can be lowered into the water.
Thanks to the wind, the blades spin, transmitting rotation to the propeller located at the bottom of the shaft. The propeller, rotating, creates a vortex that prevents freezing of water in winter.
Aerators are an indispensable thing when growing fish in bodies of water with stagnant water. This device can be bought or made independently - the main thing is that the pump power is enough for aeration of a given area.
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