Windmill Aeration 101
Everything you Need to Know About Windmill Aeration!
Do I Need Aeration?If your pond is old or new, large or small, clear or cloudy, weed filled and algae covered or yes, even weed free, aeration can improve and work to maintain the health of your pond and its inhabitants. Oxygen is the most important requirement for clean water.
What Will Aeration Do?Aeration works to rid your pond of excess nutrients which cause unnaturally heavy weed growth. In keeping the water circulating, aeration will eliminate stratification (the temperature layering that often causes fish kill) and help control mosquito larvae. Aeration will oxygenate the lower levels of your pond and replace the dead water layer on the bottom with fresh oxygenated water. This helps keep anaerobic bacteria from forming which in turn helps rid the pond of undesirable algae. Fish health is also improved with the upgraded water quality that aeration provides.
How Do Superior Windmill Aerators Work?It all starts at the fan blades. As the blades turn, a diaphragm moves up and down in the compressor taking in filtered outside air. The compressor in turn builds up pressure, which is then released through valves and into the air line leading to the pond. The diffuser, located in the deeper areas of your pond, then breaks the air into fine bubbles. These bubbles (the smaller the better) carry with them gases, pollutants and excess nutrients releasing them into the air as the bubbles reach the top of the water.
It is important that the Superior Windmill compressor develops a steady stream of air, not the part time pulsing air stream of other manufacturers. Equally important is the Superior Windmill's capability of developing more than 30lbs of pressure, enabling deep placement of the diffuser for maximum cleansing action.
What Size Tower Is Best?More is better. The 20' tower catches up to 20% more wind than the 12' tower. The 20' tower is always recommended where possible.
What Is The Difference Between A Superior Jet Stream And A Superior Turbo Jet Stream?The Jet Stream is a single diaphragm compressor designed for use in smaller bodies of water. It produces 1.5 cfm at 9 mph wind speed. The Turbo Jet Stream is a dual diaphragm compressor and produces 3 cfm at 9 mph wind speed.
Which Model Is Right For Your Pond?Because of the diversity of pond sizes, depths, shapes and locations, selecting the correct Superior Windmill depends on a variety of factors. Please call 1-866-493-6953 and we can determine together which Superior Windmill is right for your application.
Pumping WaterYes, Superior Windmills can also pump water. Two pump models are available. The VT-6 is a vertical pump designed for use in a 6” or larger well casing. The SW-16 is a horizontal pump that works well in the more shallow water of ponds and streams. Both models are built using PVC casings and brass fittings for longevity.
Why Use A Freeze Tank?When air is compressed, moisture is formed. In colder climates moisture may accumulate in the air line causing the line to freeze. This can damage the compressor. Also, aerating a pond in the winter can be very beneficial for a number of reasons. Winter aeration eliminates winter fish kill, keeps an area of open water for wildlife and perhaps most important, helps the pond recover from the damage caused by Summer's high heat and low water levels.
How Much Maintenance Does A Superior Windmill Need?Very little. The pivot tube and swivel bearing need to be greased once a year for proper operation. This is easily done in 15 minutes or less.
What About Assembly?On average it takes two people 8 to 10 hours to complete the assembly process.
More Questions?Please call 1-866-493-6953.