A: There are so many benefits to aerating a pond that it’s hard to overdo it. In fact, pond and lake aeration is so beneficial it is often one of our top recommendations. Aeration infuses the water with oxygen and increases circulation, which both help your pond in a multitude of ways.
When Can You Over Aerate a Pond?
For most ponds and lakes, it is nearly impossible to aerate a pond too much. There are a few circumstances, however, when you can over aerate a pond.
- New Aeration System: If you have a newly installed aeration system, you’ll want to start it up gradually to prevent shocking your pond. Follow your aeration system’s initial seven-day startup process. On Day 1, run the system for 30 minutes, then turn it off for the rest of the day. Then, double the time each day thereafter. On day 2, run for one hour; Day 3, two hours; Day 4, four hours, until you get to Day 7, when you will run it for 24 hours, seven days a week.
- First Start-Up After Winter Dormancy: If you shut your aeration system down for the winter, you’ll want to do a gradual start-up after it has been dormant all winter. Again, follow our detailed instructions on a gradual aeration system start-up.
- Game Fish and Aeration: While aeration is beneficial for fish, too much aeration can lead to an increase in the water temperature, which, in summer months, can possibly get too warm for some species, like trout. If you have recently stocked your pond, particularly if it is during the summer, start your aeration system gradually following our detailed instructions so as not to stress and kill your fish.
How to Aerate a Pond
Pond and lake aeration systems should be matched to a waterbody’s size and shape, and ideally, run all year round. Follow our tips to test your pond to see if it is properly aerated.
If you are just getting started and are not sure which pond or lake aeration system is right for you, we can help!
Our free Pond Profile and aeration mapping service will provide you with the appropriate recommendations for your pond to teach you how to best manage and maintain it so that you and your family can get the most enjoyment out of it.
You’ll get a customized aeration system layout, and pond management suggestions tailored just for your pond.
Whether you have a large multi-acre pond or a small water garden or koi pond, we have pond and lake aeration systems for ponds of all shapes and sizes.
Questions?
Still have questions about aeration or pond care and maintenance? Contact our Experts and let us help answer all your pond care questions.