Best methods for additional oxygen

[JJKOI]

Hi was wondering if anyone could give thir input into what would be the best methods for adding additional oxygen into a pond in abundance to increase the levels drastically.

thanks

[dcny]

My guess would be a large shower filter.

-Dan

[aquitori]

Size of pond?

Fish load?
Bio load?

What do you have on your pond now to aerate the pond?

[Steve E]

Some time back there was a comparson of several methods of adding air/oxygen to ponds. It was on one of the boards. I can not find it in my files, so the following is off of memory.

The least expensive and most efficient was by air pump.

A properly constructed waterfall/stream bed was okay. Has to do with the height and number of the water fall areas. A lot of short height falls are better than one large one.

A venturi was not considered to be a good method. The reason for this is the high volume of water needed to produce a good flow of air at depth. They work most efficiently at very shallow depths. I have one for emergencies and it requires 3,000 gph at 24"

I have a large paper file somewhere and the original chart may be there. If I can find it, I will post the information later.

Steve

[dubtaco]

I agree with Steve, an air pump would be the easiest way. I just picked up one of these guys:

PondMaster Air Pump 100 - available at many online retailers

I'm running 6 air stones, 9" bottom drain diffuser, and my fluid bed with it and could probably add more. For the money I have not found anything better, granted it may not last as long as a Hakko, Hiblow, or Alita.

[Russell Peters]

Quote: Originally Posted by dubtaco I agree with Steve, an air pump would be the easiest way. I just picked up one of these guys: PondMaster Air Pump 100 - available at many online retailers I'm running 6 air stones, 9" bottom drain diffuser, and my fluid bed with it and could probably add more. For the money I have not found anything better, granted it may not last as long as a Hakko, Hiblow, or Alita.

You get what you pay for. I know the hakko and Alita's are more expensive, but they will last longer and replacing the diaphrams are a snap. It is worth thinking about spending a little more.

[MCA]

ways to increase DO levels:

• airdomes on BDs
• air stones in traditional filters (ie in matting chambers)
• air-driven fluid bed filters
• TTs
• shower filters
• waterfalls/weirs
• O3 (that ought to bring a lighting strick)

As I remember, Peter Waddington recommended in K2K to pump 40L for each 1000gallons (1200 US gallons). I run a 120L on each of 2 Nexus and a 80L on each of two BDs. That definitely keeps the DO above 80%. Last time I measured it it was more around 90% saturation. Remember saturation levels vary by temp. Warmer water carries less DO.

[Brutuscz]

For an emergency situation, you can add hydrogen peroxide. The dosage is listed on koivet (I think it's one bottle for 1,000gal...but check it out). Works good for about 4 hours.

[bekko]

In studies comparing various methods of aerating aquaculture ponds, paddlewheels were found to be the most electrically efficient. Air diffusers were one of the least efficient.

High volume, low pressure regenerative air blowers are much more efficient than diaphragm air pumps.

TT's with high static heads are less efficient than stream beds with low static head.

In a display pond, many never consider electrical efficiency when oil is only $70/barrel. We tend to concentrate on aesthetics, low initial equipment cost, and ease of operation. These factors lead us toward air diffusers.

-stevehopki

[JJKOI]

Thanks for all the info.

My pond is approx 3000 gallons.(Thats UK gallons) I m running 2 filters with capacity of 4000 gallons down a water fall.

I have just bought an air pump which i will run 4 air stones from . Can anyone say what would be a suitable amount to produce adequate amount of oxygen for my pond.....