Having a pond is an intriguing venture. It requires a lot of input for it always to look presentable. Although it is not part of your home that you see each day, you will need a maintenance schedule. Ponds suffer from a lot of risks of neglect when they lack a pond de-icer. The water has to be at the right temperature. A pond is like a habitat. The environment has to be conducive for the living things in it to flourish. If your pond has fish, neglecting the pond will result in an untimely death for all of them. As the year progresses, seasons will change. Summer comes in with lots of heat, while winter can cause the formation of ice. It would be best if you exercised measures to shield the fish from such adverse conditions.
Fish camouflage during winter. They work with less food and can survive in the ice water for some time. Unfortunately, there is a more critical effect that comes with such situations. The water is a conducive place for the buildup of carbon dioxide. The only way to prevent this from happening is by working with a pond de-icer. Well, when choosing a de-icer, it is vital to take into consideration some essential factors. The gadget comes in varying designs and sizes suitable for different types of ponds.
Placement.
The location which you choose to keep your pond de-icer plays a massive role in determining its efficiency. Experts recommend placing it in a shallow area near the edge of the pond. The place is ideal since the heat reflects mostly from the edges. The mechanism allows it to reflect and enable the device to do its work as expected. It is also convenient since you wouldn’t have to walk on thin ice and risk getting in the water when you want to check the gadget. At this location, you also shield the device from excessive wind. The wind is good as it brings about fresher air. However, in the case of a de-icer, it blows the heat away, making it inefficient. Depending on the location where you are residing, ensure you avoid this aspect. The best way to prevent this from happening is by employing plywood. Cover one side of the pond, the side where the wind blows from with a piece. Put the device under it. If the ice has already formed, you have to look for a way to create space for the gadget. Do not break the ice; the shock might scare the fish leading to death. Melt the ice in the ideal location, using a pan of hot water. It might take some time, but it is the safest method to use.
Design.
Three are different variations of pond de-icers. Each has outstanding qualifications. The first thing is to ensure the device will work for the amount of water in your pond. Otherwise, you will not see any difference upon installation. Additionally, check on energy consumption. It should be economical and serve the intended purpose. The other aspect is the material. While in the pond, the fish will move freely. Choose a suitable material that will not hurt the fish. Plastic seems ideal, but when too hot, it can burn the fish or your hands. The pond liners also suffer risk. Lastly, ensure it comes with a cord to allow for movement. Also, it can either float or submerge when necessary.
Although de-icers work magic, using additional gadgets like pond air can improve aeration. It will boost the flow of oxygen, making the water a safe home for your fish. As seen above, ponds require keen attention to detail. Without regular checkups, you can lose your fish within the shortest time possible. The approaches are simple, and you can either DIY or seek help from a professional pond attendant.