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Winter Wakes by Fountain – Aerator DeIcers

February 23rd, 2021 | Posted by LadyNerkle1 in Air-O-Lator Fountain-Aerator - (Comments Off on Winter Wakes by Fountain – Aerator DeIcers)

Using an Air-O-Lator Fountain-Aerator

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

A WINTER WAKE for SWANs

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

To Enlarge Images
Right Click Image then Open in a New Tab.

“A Winter Wake” is a Disturbance in the Surface
of Water that Inhibits Freezing.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Fountains – Aerators – as DeIcers
Our Winter Wakes by an Air-O-Lator Deicer

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

We “used” an Air-O-Lator Unit.. ..Installed in November 2008.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

NOTES FROM OUR EXPERIENCES.. 2008-2015

I want to Share our Experience with the DeIcing Equipment we have Used.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

I will Note the Time we Purchased and Installed the Equipment.
I will include the Functions we Liked and the Situations
which did NOT Work.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

On this Page I will Share our Experiences with the Air-O-Later..
Model: ( the Aquarian Residential Aerator.)

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

In the Early Fall of 2008, we were Planning for our First Winter
with Swans on a Large Pennsylvania Golf Course Irrigation Pond.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

We were Blessed to have this Beautiful Private Pond for our Swans.
Both the Swans had Health Challenges.. They Recovered over the Summer.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Hummm…
Guess we should Start to Plan for Winter.. the Leaves are Changing.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Winters vary in PA.. Some are Mild
and SOME are COLD.. with WIND, SNOW and ICE..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Being NEW to Swan Care..We had LOTs to Learn.
I did my Best to Research DeIcing Equipment.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

In 2008, doing an Internet Search for Equipment to DeIce an area
in the Pond was a Challenge.. There were VERY Few Choices..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

There were Three Designed for Boat Dock Areas.
The “Ice-Away” by Air-O-Lator had Potential.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

With the Float Option, the Air-O-Lator could be used in Ponds or Lakes
to keep “A Winter Wake” – Open Water Area for WaterFowl.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

I was Pleased to find the Air-O-Lator..
A Combination Fountain in the Summer…

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Below is the Basic Way this will Work..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

…and then it Converts to a DeIcing Unit in the Winter..
– by Lowering the Propeller Fan Unit.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Air-O-Lator Company was Great.. Sent a Very Complete Unit..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Sales Rep. was able to Recommend a Local Electrician
who was Willing to Assist with the Installation..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Electrician Commented, “It was Nice to have a Different Type of Project.”

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

There was Electric Service Available by this Large Irrigation Pond.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Something Needed to be Added to Electric Service Box
for the Equipment to be Used Safely.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Electrician and Golf Course Grounds Staff were Terrific.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

We had the Help we needed.. My Husband was there for
some of the Lifting to Move the Boat and Supplies Around.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

All Supplies are in the Row Boat.. Here he GOES !!

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

My Job was to Watch the Swans and Record-SNAP the Day.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Now it is Time to Set the Cinder Block Anchors in Place.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Our Swans stayed at the Far End of the Pond until the Boat was OUT !

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Swans Swim over to See what “That Guy” was Doing in their Pond !

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

I Wanted to Watch the Temperature here at the Pond. So, I Placed a
High-Low Thermometer in the Sheltered-Open Section of the Electric Box.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Since we purchased our Air-O-Lator in Late 2008
They have increased their Product Line.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Take a Look at the AirOLator Website..
Air-O-Lators >>>> https://www.airolator.com

With ALL Electrical Equipment..
There are SAFETY Issues when used in or near Water.
READ ALL SAFETY WARNINGs !

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Spray Fountains in Ponds and Lakes are Lovely to See.
They do Provide Circulation and have other Benefits.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Benefits of Aeration for a Pond or Lake.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yQ8LHSiYIU

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

For Year-Round Pond Health..
The Circulation of the Lower Pond Water will help prevent Deadly
Anaerobic Bacteria Growth in the Lower Areas of a Pond.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Organic Material does Break Down Completely in Stagnant
Deeper Areas of a Pond… This Muck can become a Toxic Zone.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Organic Break-Down.. will Release Methane Gas.. which you might see as
Bubbles in ICE ! ! ! IT LOOKs Cool.. Circulating the Water Levels will Aid
Clearing the Decaying Material from the Water.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

During the Summer Time Excess Organic Materials will Promote the Growth of Several Unwanted Pond Plants. Algae Blooms, DuckWeed..etc.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Unwanted Pond Plants like DuckWeed may over grow the Surface.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

This can Creates an Unhealthy Condition in a Pond.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Reducing the Oxygen Value in the Lower Zones of a Pond.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Air-O-Lator used Year-Round will improve the Pond’s General Health.
Just an Hour or so Each Day or Night.. will Improve the Water Quality.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Since the Air-O-Lator Unit can be Raised to use as a Spray Fountain…
this is a Nice Visual Addition for the Warmer Months.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Spray Fountains are Lovely Features in many Public Park Ponds and Lakes.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

BUT I have Learned Over Time and Doing some Reading..
that the SPRAY Fountains have been Responsible for Dispersing
Legionellae Organisms in the Fine Mist of these Fountains..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Breathing in the Fountain Mist can Expose People and Animals
to this Deadly Pneumonia when the Water Temperature is Over 70 Degrees.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

This Possibility is being Considered UnSafe for Ponds in
Senior Living Facilities..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

During the Winter the Water Mist will Coat the Swans Feathers
and they may have a Layer of Ice Stick to them …

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

There is a Constant Cool Mist in the Air near a Fountain Spray.

***********************************************************

The Air-O-Lator Lifts and Mixes Large Quantities of Water
UPward to the Surface.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

When used as a DeIcer it Circulates the Warmer Water
from the Lower Area of the Pond or Lake.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Motor Mount-Propeller also Spreads the Water Flow
OUTward Creating a Larger Area of Effective Coverage.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Air-O-Lator is Capable of Keeping a 7 – 8 Foot Diameter Area
of Open Water for every Foot of Depth the Propeller is Lowered.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Average Suspended Depth is approximately 5 – 6 Feet –
Effective Down to a Maximum of 8 Feet.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

If Lowered to 6 Feet..
Estimate Keeping an Area 40 to 50 Feet Open.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

As the Water Circulates from the Bottom of the Pond, where it is Warmer,
the Water Flows Outward and Under the Ice Shelf Edges.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

If the Flow is able to Reach the Shoreline,
you may get even Bigger Areas of Open Water.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Longer a Sustained Cold Spell, the LESS the Open Area might be.
Because the Deeper Water will Continue to Cool.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Air-O-Lator was Actively in Use on this Pond from
Late November 2008 through Early February 2009.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

When there was Ice Covering the Majority of this Pond, the Swans
Still had a Nice Area of OPEN Water Thanks to the Air-O-Lator.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Instead of Fearing Winter, we were able to Enjoy the Different Forms of Ice.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Below: Small Columns of UnderGround Spring Water
are Creating Circles in the Surface of Thin Ice. ( Mini-Wakes )

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Changing Water Level on Frigid Nights May Create Icicle Formations.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Even Some of the Little Frozen Mud Puddles were Pretty.

**********************************************************

If you need to use Extension Cords – Run them through PVC Conduit.
Be SURE your Cords are Safe for OutDoor Use.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

> > > DO NOT PLACE PLUG CONNECTIONS IN THE WATER ! ! < < < <

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

NO Rope Loops.. Swans LOVE to Pull at Cables and Ropes.
Our Swans would Pick and Chew at Ropes, Cords, Electric Cables, etc.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Often we did not See them..
But, when we did there was Little we could do to Stop them..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The BIGGEST Problem.. The Swans..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Our Little Female was Proud of herself when she Picked at
the Ropes that Held the Float to its Anchor Blocks and Set it FREE..!!
It Twisted Around, Tangling the Propeller with One of the Other Rope Supports.

On that Very Cold February Day, a Very Nice Person Got the
Boat out and was Able to Get the DeIcer Put Back Together..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

We had No Way to know if there was Damage to the Propeller..
Just Grateful It was Working..!!!

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

From Reading..
I had suggested Protecting the Electric Cord with PVC Vinyl Conduit..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The PVC Vinyl Conduit Averages $1.50+ for 10 Feet..
The Air-O-Lators Cable was 100 Feet Long
– PVC Conduit would be less then $20.00. (including Tax)
The Electric Cable Averages over $ 2.00/Foot to Replace ( 100 Feet = $200.00).

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Fish and Turtles seem to Enjoy the Taste of Electrical Cables.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

If you want to leave the Unit in Your Pond for the Year Round
Circulation Benefit and DeIcing… putting the Cable through
PVC Electrical Conduit will Save Costly Cable Replacement/Repairs.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Fish and Turtles are not Very Active during the Colder Months.
During Warmer Weather.. they will Chew on Electric Cords.

This School of Japanese koi: Koi, a member of the Carp Family,
like to Hide in the Tangle of Twigs under the Willow Tree.

*************************************************************

IF you Install these Units Yourself.. “DIY”
Be Sure to Sweep under the Floatation Location to Check
for Anything that might Foul the Fan Propeller..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

It should be Clear of Debris for a Distance Under the Unit.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

You will Need to Help the Swans.. They are Trying to Help.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

It is Easy to See, that a Location under a Tree is not a Good Place.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Positioned in the Deeper Area of the Pond keeps the Swans Safer from Predators.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Thin Edges of the Ice Shelves are not so Safe for Prowling Predators.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Our Swans were Safe as Long as the Air-O-Lator was Working.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Lower into the Water the Propeller Unit is Positioned
the Bigger the Open Water Area will be in the Ice.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

We Managed to Keep our Swans Safe and Comfortable this Winter.

***************************************************************

The ***PROPELLER GUARD (Extra Accessory) will Prevent
Fish and the Swans with their LONG Necks from getting Cut
by the Fan Propellers.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

https://airolator.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Ice_A_Way.pdf

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The PROPELLER GUARD also Helps Prevent Leaves, Twigs,
Paper and Plastic Bags from getting Twisted into the Fan.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

We did have One Event of a White Plastic Grocery Bag becoming Sucked
onto the Unit.. Which Prevented Water from Circulating.
The Propeller Guard kept the Bag from Tangling the Propeller..
but, Wrapped Around the Guard the Bag Prevented Water Movement.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Again, the Boat was Put into the Frigid Pond.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

We had been using Bright Yellow Nylon Rope that Floats
to Tie the Float to the Anchor Blocks.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

But, the Swans kept Chewing at the Rope and over time they Chewed Away
enough Rope Setting the Unit Loose, etc.
MORE then Once.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

If you Decide to use Ropes to Connect the Unit to the Floatation,
* Prevent the Swans from getting Tangled in any Rope Loops..
***ELIMINATE the Loops in your Ties to the Air-O-Lator Fan Motor.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

In Late November the Swans were Starting to Court.. Lovely to Watch.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

We were Ready for Winter. We Hoped !

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

************

A Sad Event:
One of the Ponds in Lancaster Co. using a Fountain for Circulation,
Lost a Young Female in Late Summer during a Period of Drought.

The Ropes that keep their Fountain in place became Slack
as the Pond Water Level went Down.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

They found their Female with a Support Rope around her Neck..
These Folks have had Swans for over 20 years..
Their Pond was the Lowest it had ever been.
Never thought the Anchor Ropes might be a Concern.

**************************************************************

A Long Sad Swan Saga.. in Late 2009 and Early 2010..
we Lost Both “Sweet Harmony” and “Handsome Fellow.”

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Our Little Pond Princess, “Hannah” was Rehomed to a Private Farm Pond.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

We were Helpless to Change their Fates.

***************************************************************

In the Summer and Fall of 2010 we had Three Young Rescues..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

We Found a Home for them on a Horse Pasture Pond..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

We went to Visit the Young Swans as Often a we Could. Such a JOY !

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

As the Summer Days WARMED the Pond – DuckWeed Grew Quickly.
Areas of the Horse Pastures were Draining Animal Waste into the Pond.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

DuckWeed is a Healthy Plant for the Swans to Eat..
But they could not Eat Enough to Control the Rapid Growth..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

I had the Air-O-Later from the Golf Course Pond Refurbished.
The 100 Feet of Cable had to be Replaced..
Turtles and Fish had CHEWED the Coating Off in 5 – 6 Places..
I had ASKED for the Cable to be in Conduit.. It was not Done..
I was Told it would not be Needed.. > > > IT WAS NEEDED !

We were all New to having Electrical Equipment in a Pond.
This was a Learning Experience.. A Costly One.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Horse Pasture Farm Worker Installed the Electric to the Pond Area
and Put the Air-O-Lator into the Horse Pasture Pond. Nice Job

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Electric Cable to the Unit was IN Conduit.. YEAH !
We were not there to Observe.. OH MY, ROPE LOOPs Every Where..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Summer soon became Fall and we were Preparing for the Colder Months.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Our Young Swans were Doing Well.. They Learned about the Ice.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The First Winter the Air-O-Lator Unit Worked Well…

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Air-O-Lator was Allowed to Run through the Spring and Summer.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Circulation Benefit was Impressive.. Most of the DuckWeed was Gone.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

This Meant the Organic Materials were Breaking Down and Flowing Out
of the Pond as Spring Rains Flushed the Pond.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Summer Visits were Fun. Watching them Grow and Bond into a Threesome.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

In October the Air-O-Later was Working Properly. Ready for Colder Times.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The First Half of their Second Winter Months Everything was Working Well.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Swans Chewed and Chewed..
Over and Over Detaching the Fan/Propeller Unit from the Float.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

This Winter we could not get to the Air-O-Lator when it Stopped Working.
It was Not Safe for Anyone to Service the Unit…

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

There was NO Safe Way to take the Unit out for Repair.
I was a Nervous Wreck until the Spring Thaw..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

There was a VERY Small Area where the Natural Springs Entered the Pond.
The Swans had this Small Shallow Area for Weeks..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Unit had Water that Leaked into the Motor..
It was Repaired.. and ReInstalled..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

It Took the Swans Several Months Picking and Pulling at the Ropes.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

It is Just a Matter of Time.. So, the Ropes were Replaced… Again & Again.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer
Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Swans would NOT Stop Chewing the Ropes..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

This Time the Motor Unit was Hung from Bent ReBar … see Photos.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Float was still Attached to the Cinder Block Anchors by Ropes.
Now the Ropes were Knotted, with VERY Tight Knots DOWN Through
the Corner Holes of the Float.. NO Extra Rope to Chew Away…

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Later Stainless Chain was used to Prevent the Swans from Picking the Support Ropes Apart… Silly Birds. >>>This did Resolve the Problem.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Having a Timer to Control the ON/OFF will Save Electricity.
It is a Fan/Motor – there is NO COSTLY Heat.

Turning it ON during the Colder Night Hours is usually Sufficient.

No Noisy Compressor. >>>> It uses an Electric Cable in the Water.

**************************************************************

We Used the Same Air-O-Later from November 2008 – July 2015..
FOUR Times during Winter Months it STOPPED Working.

Once a Plastic Bag became Tangled in the Fan… early 2009.
SEVERAL TIMEs the Swans Chewed the Ropes
until the Floatation Twisted around its Support Ropes.
Once the Motor Housing Leaked and Water Stopped Everything.

It is NO FUN Trying to Service this Unit during Bitter Cold Days
when we Needed it the MOST.. When It is not SAFE to go out on the Ice.

Our Unit was Repaired Twice.. Cable Replaced Once..
First Installed – November 2008.. to March 2009.
Repaired and Moved August 2010 – January 2013 FAILED..
Repaired March 2013 and Put Back in Pond to August 2015.

This Unit was Working when we Moved our Swans to a New Home..
The Horse Pasture Farm was Sold.. We were VERY Lucky to Find a Lovely New Pond with Caring Folks.. Now Good Swan Friends.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

OverAll.. It was Not the Air-O-Lator.. it was Our Swans that Caused
Most of the Failures.. The Twisting and Tangling the Motor/Propeller
with the Support Ropes could have Damaged the Housing Causing the Leak..

When our Air-O-Lator was Working it was Great.

We did not Purchase this Type of DeIcing Equipment Again.
We Needed to Consider Equipment that was Safe for our Swans,
And Safe FROM our Swans.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

“Hannah” Loved to Pull at Rob’s Boot Laces until they were Untied.
Silly Swan.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

The Fine Serrations Lining their Beak makes Picking & Pulling Rope Easy.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Look Closely at the “Country Water Lily Pond’s Float.. it has Chains
– No Ropes.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

*******************************************************

As we Traveled about Visiting Swan Ponds..
This Type of Circulating – DeIcing Equipment is Common..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

This Large Rural Pond below has Two Air-O-Lator Units.. (small dark – – s)
The Under Water Critters Damaged the Electric Cords.. SHORT-OUT !

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Now the Pond Surface is Covered with Tiny WaterMeal.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Many seemed to Work without the Problems we Experienced.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

One Pond Owner tried to Use this System in a Shallow Pond..
Maybe 18-24 Inches Deep.. it could not be Adapted.
It Never Worked.. was more Dangerous to Anyone Near it..
It Just Spit Muddy Water into the Air.

This Area of the Pond is Shallow – The Swans can Stand-up in the Water.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

It is VERY Important to Select the Circulating – DeIcing Equipment
Best Suited to Your Water Environment.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Fountains are Lovely to See.. Striking Water Features..
Swans Complete the Picture.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

We Loved Spending Time with Swans and the Places where they Live.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

Many Wonderful Memories.

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&

Compiled from our Experience with an Air-O-Lator.
From 2008 – 2015 (c) Linda M. Sweger March 2021

&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&

When Your Swans are Safe on their Water Environment during the Winter Months.. You will have more Time to Just Enjoy the Season with Them..

Swan Winter Wake Air-O-Lator DeIcer

CREATE A WINTER WAKE FOR YOUR SWANs.

February 5th, 2021 | Posted by LadyNerkle1 in Keeping a "Winter Wake" for Swans - (Comments Off on CREATE A WINTER WAKE FOR YOUR SWANs.)
Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

To Enlarge Images – Right Click Image then Open in a New Tab.

Winter Water Wake..
Keeping Water Moving and Mixing to Prevent Freezing.

For Folks New to Swan Care..
Where you Live will be a BIG Factor for this Topic.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Every Water Environment is Unique..
The Time to Plan is Late Summer – Early Fall..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

When Caring for Swans or other Domestic Waterfowl…
There are TWO HIGH Priority.. Tips/Rules.. For Winter Care,
>>>>>> Open Water and Plenty of Healthy Food.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Open Liquid Water Keeps the Waterfowl Warm.. and Safer..
Food is Energy to keep them Warm.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

IF you are in a Climate with Mild Winters..
and Water Environments that do not Freeze.. Great !

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

In any Area where Winters are Mild and the WaterWays
only Freeze Occasionally for a Few Nights/Days..
It is Good to be Aware and be Prepared..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

For those of us who Live in Northern States, we have Four Seasons..
From Cool Rainy Springs to HOT Dry Summers,
Time to Prepare Autumn-Fall into Freezing Winters.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Healthy Swans do Very Well as long as they can keep their Feet
in Liquid Water.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Healthy Swans Fare Well OutSide During the WINTER.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Swans will try to find the Warmest Water in their Pond..
even a Degree or Two Warmer.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Some Lucky Water Environments have Large Open Water
Areas ALL Winter due to Active UnderGround Springs.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

The UnderGround Springs may be 50 – 52 Degrees as
they Flow into the Pond or Lake Water.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

It is “Swanderful” to have a Water Environment that is Totally Ice Free !

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

The Surface of the Average Fresh Water Pond/Lake Freezes at 32 Degrees Fahrenheit.
The Depth of a Pond will Also Determine when the Surface Water
will Freeze.. For a While the Lower Warmer Water will Rise and Mix.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

The Deeper the Water.. the Slower the Freeze..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

We Mounted a Minimum – Maximum Thermometer on the Shady Side of
a Post Near the Pond. The Pond Average Temperature is Different from
the Local Official Weather Forecast Station..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Brackish Water.. DOES Freeze..
Ocean Water Freezes just like Freshwater, but at Lower Temperatures.
Sea Water Freezes at about 28.4 degrees Fahrenheit because of the Salt in it.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

When Sea Water Freezes the Ice contains very little Salt
because only the Water Part Freezes.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Salt Ice: It is generally Weaker http://lakeice.squarespace.com/
It Weakens more Quickly when Thawing. It Thaws at Lower Temperatures.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

If Swans or Cygnets are “Frozen Out” of their Water then they are subject
to the Air Temperature and if it is Cold enough, they may Freeze.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

I DO Know of Swans that Froze.. VERY Sad Stories.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Captive WaterFowl are Helpless when Ponds/Lakes are Completely Frozen.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

The Image Below is of a Minnesota Trumpeter Swan that Suffered Painful FrostBite. A Swan’s Feet are SOooo Important to their Survival in the Wild.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

The Photo Image below… is a Muscovy Duck whose Feet Suffered FrostBite.
Lots of Care did not Save this Duck.. Parts of its Feet kept Dying..
You can See the Left Leg is Black. Eventually the Duck Died.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

The Bitter Cold Spells during January-February have Often taken Tolls..
Sad Swan News is more Frequent. Predators have been the Main Reason.
When Ponds Freeze, it Forces Swans into Unsafe Areas.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Most Swans are Killed when NOT in their Water..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

It is a Good Idea to have Equipment Ready for DeIcing.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

A Stable Boat and EXTRA People to Help.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Installing Circulation-DeIcing Systems is a Summer – Fall Project..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

SomeOne will be OUT in the Water.. to Place the Units.
A STABLE Boat is Needed for Most Installations.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Working in a Water Environment that is ALL OPEN is Helpful..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Dealing with Ice is not Instinctual for Swans.
In True Wild Swan Populations, Tundra & Trumpeters, the Parents will
Teach their Cygnets about Ice or take them to Warmer Areas.. Migrate.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Mute Swans are NOT Migratory Swans..
They will Move about Seeking OPEN Water..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Each Time we have Moved our Swans to a New Pond,
they needed to Learn about the Icing on their New Home Pond.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

The First Year is the Trickiest for both the Swans and their CareTakers..
Swans will Learn..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Winter Care For Swans
https://swanlovers.net/category/winter-care-for-swans/
About Half Way Down this Topic Page.. there are some
Examples of Young Cygnets/Swans Learning to Deal with Ice..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Swans are Safest in an Area of the Pond or Lake at least 4 Feet Deep..
Shallow Water is Less Safe..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

The Depth is more important then the Diameter of the Opening in any Ice.
Most Predators can not get to the Swans if they are Floating Over 4 Feet of Water.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

A Diameter of 25 Feet or More is Ideal.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

** You DO NOT Want Predators to Reach your Swans.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Always Check at SunSet and SunRise that the Swans are IN Liquid Water.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

I DO UNDERSTAND about WINTER WORRY..
I know in my Logical Brain that Healthy Waterfowl
will be Fine in Open Water with Adequate Food Support.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

I DO Understand the Feeling of WANTING to Help and Protect
the Swans from the Elements.. Been There !

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

I can not tell you how Many Nights I have barely Slept..
I am Under a Warm Electric Blanket..Safe inside.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

While Outside the Wind and Snow is Whirling..
and our Swans are Outside in Frigid Winter Weather.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Many Times, I was UP before Dawn, before Coffee,
Dressed like I am going to the North Pole..
and OFF to the River or Pond to Check on our Swans..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

They were ALWAYs Fine..
Happy to Greet me for some Morning Treats..
Standing at First Morning Light in Ankle-High Snow Shivering….

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

..and Watched the Swans Playing-Bathing in the Icy Cold Water.
Relieved I would Trudge back Home for COFFEE..

After Loving Swans for 17 Years (2004-2021)..
I Still have to Tell MYSELF they will be OK.. They are Healthy and Well Fed.. They will be Fine. (Sigh..) and then Try to Sleep..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Working with and Visiting Swans, we have seen many,
many Swans on their Ponds with Ice and Snow all around.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

They are Swimming, Playing, Bathing in the Icy Water..
They are SO Well Insulated.. It is Amazing.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Our Adult Swans have been out Full Time – Year Round..
They will be 12 Years Old in the Spring-Summer of 2021..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

You Worry because you Care for them.. That is Good..Normal..
The Best Gauge I have Found is >>> How are the Ducks and Geese Doing ?

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

If Small Ducks and Medium Size Geese are Doing OK
on your Winter Lake or Pond.. then Healthy Swans should do OK..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Just Remember there are NO 100% Rules.. when Caring for Swans.

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To KEEP an Area of Water Open-Liquid. – A “Winter Wake.”

YOU DO NOT WANT Equipment that uses HEAT.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

It is NOT Practical to use Heating Element Equipment in a Pond or Lake.
These are for the Decorative Landscape Ponds or Animal Water Container.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

YOU WANT Circulation.. Moving and Mixing Water.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Most Pond/Lake Systems will need Electric Service..
There are Solar & Winds Mill Units..I have no Experience with these..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Be SURE you have SAFE Electrical Service.. GFCI
We had Licensed Electricians Install ours..
NOT a DIY Project for Me..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

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Where to Start your Research.. READ LOTs of INFO..

Every Water Environment is Different..
Do what you can to Learn about the Area of your Pond or Lake
that you want to Keep OPEN Water. – Especially the Depth..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Websites with LOTs of Information
AirMax – Pond and Lake Aeration Systems
https://www.airmaxeco.com/category/aeration


The Pond Guy.. has a Service to Assist with Planning
for DeIcing Equipment..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

https://www.thepondguy.com/category/pond-and-lake

KASCO Marine…Pond & Lake De-Icing – Kasco Marine
https://kascomarine.com/de-icers/pond-lake-de-icing

KASCO has a Service to Assist Customers Select the Proper Equipment.

https://kascomarine.com/ – Is a GREAT Resource
for Learning about the Different Systems.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

There are Many Companies with All Kind of New Products..
There is LOTs to Learn.. All Useful Info.

For Most DeIcing Systems..
Generally, the Lower your DeIcing Equipment
the Larger the Water Surface Opening will be.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Circulating Equipment will have the Added Benefit
of Improving the Year-Round Health of most Ponds..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Organic Pond Plants like DuckWeed and Algae may Over Grow the Surface,
Reducing the Oxygen Values in the Pond..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

The SAME Horse Pasture POND 12 Months Later.. CLEAR SURFACE…!!!

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Organic Material Breaks Down in Stagnant Deeper Areas of a Pond…
Over Time this can Smell Nasty.. Is Unhealthy for Fish..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

This Creates an Unhealthy Condition in a Pond.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Circulation of the Lower Pond Water will Help Prevent
Anaerobic Bacteria Growth in the Lower Levels of Ponds,
Improving the Dissolved Oxygen through the Water Layers.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Your Pond Fish will be Healthier.. You will Reduce Fish Kills.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake
Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

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There are Various Methods of Deicing Winter Ponds/Lakes.
None are Appropriate for All Water Environments..

We have used a Variety of Equipment in Different Ponds..
I have Organizing our Experiences .. These Topic Pages are Listed.

CREATING a “Winter Wake” for Swans

OOPs MOTHER NATURE SURPRISED US.

Air-O-Lator Fountain-Aerator

Winter Wake by SubSurface Diffusers

Submersible Pump for Open Water in Winter

Shallow Water Circulating Aerators

DeICING a Shallow Water Area with Bubble Hose

DeIcing with a SUMP PUMP

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There are 4 Basic Types.. Every Pond Situation is Different.
These ALL Require having Electric Service Available.

IF THERE is Electric Available by the Pond – Lake.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Threading Any Electric Cable through PVC Conduit for Added Safety.

 Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

An Example: I Spoke with a Lady who Rented a Ditch-Witch Trencher,
Buried the Electric Cable from the House to the Pond.. Installed the New
Aeration Equipment.. It Worked for about a Week.. THEN STOPPED !!
Some Critters had Dug Down to the Cable and had a Shocking Good Time.

Loose Electrical Cables and Extensions are TANGLE HAZARDs.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Electric Cables are Vulnerable to Rodents, Fish & Turtles Chewing on them.. 
>>Short-OUT !! – Possible Electric Leakage into the Water.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Having a Timer to Run the Units just at Night.. Helps with Electric Cost.
Or Turn these On-OFF as Needed.. Being Ready is what is Important..

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Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

# 1 Fountains – Aerators Some Convert to DeIcers.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

There will be a Support Structure on the Surface.
* Electric Cable in the Water -Aver. 100 Feet Cable.
These have a Motor with FAN-Propeller..
Should be DOWN at Least 5 Feet..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

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Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

# 2 Bubble Diffusers.. Compressor and Weighted Air Hose.
There is NO Support Structure on the Surface.
* NO Electric Cable in the Water.
for Deeper Waters 6-8 Plus Feet

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake
Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

We Installed a Bubble Diffuser System in One Pond..
It is a RELIEF not to have an Electric Cable in the Water.
AND there is NOTHING on the Surface of the Water.. Nice..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

I am NOT Crazy having the Compressors – They Hum..Vibrate.
But, I Decided this is Safer then having Electric Cords in the Water..

Try to keep any Compressor away from your Home.. Noisy – HUM..
The New Compressors are Quieter..
Having a Timer.. Allows for the Compressors to Run Only at Night.

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# 3 Submersible Pumps.. and/or Sump Pump.
* Electric Cable in Water – Limited Cable Length.
Works Best if Down at least 3-5 Feet.. IN LARGE BUCKET.
Works Well in Area of the Pond without a lot of Leaves
and Field Drainage Debris.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

This Submersible Pump Set-Up did Keep a Nice Area Ice Free.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Can be Useful Until you have a Chance to REALLY Evaluate
Where you would want a more Permanent System..
In Mild Climates – For a “Just in Case” it Might Freeze this Winter..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Maybe you just need to keep your Feeding Area Open…
Over All this is a Less Expensive Set-Up.
It is a Good Idea to have an Extra Back-up Pump Ready to Swap-Out
if the Pump in Use Fails… Especially when the Weather is Nasty.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

NOTE: Winter 2015-2016: The Pumps that Draw Water in
and Discharge have a VERY Common Problem.
They PULL Leaves, Pine Needles, Twigs, Junk, etc…
Toward the Unit.. Clogging them.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

If your Pond has a lot of Debris.. these are a Pain.. !
If your Pond is Fairly Clean.. then these are Workable.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

The Pond Below was Using a Sump Pump.. It Seemed to Work Well…

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

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#4 Bubble Hose Diffusers.. for Shallow Waters 2-4 Feet..
Compressor and Weighted Air Hose in the Water.
* NO Electric Cable in the Water

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Bubble Hose can be Useful if you Need to Keep a Feeding Station Area Open.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Bubble Hose or a Garden Hose is attached to a Compressor.
These NEED to be Open to the AIR.. and Protected from the Weather.
This One is in a Gazebo and Up Under a Table..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Protecting ANY Electric Cables in Conduit…is Helpful..
Conduit is Cheap. Replacing Damaged Electric Cable is Expensive.

Most Water Circulating Equipment DEPENDS on Electricity.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

If you have a Prolonged Power Failure..
Then your Swans and other Domestic Waterfowl are AT RISK..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake
Keeping a "Winter Wake" for Swans

It is a GOOD Idea to have a Back-up Plan.. Know what you will do..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

IF YOU NEED to GO OUT onto the Ice.. to Get your Birds..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake
Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Especially, if they are Stuck in Ice..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

LET Someone know if you are going out onto Ice.
Sliding in a Boat/Kayak might Work.
This Ladder Idea Distributes your Weight..
AND WEAR a Life Jacket !!! First Rule BE Safe..
We ALL Love our Swans and Cygnets..
BUT Keep People SAFE First ! ! !

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

This Shallow Pond is Very Close to Freezing..

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From EMail Messaging with a HomeOwner in OHIO…
They had a Mature Cob on their Lake.
Normally there is a Natural Area of Open Water. ???
The Shared Image Below – There might be some DeIcing on the Right.. ??
They were Expecting Temperatures to Drop to 30 Below Zero.. COLD !

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

The Liquid Water will be at least 33 Degrees..
But, the Wind Chill.. may be what is TOO Much..
If “Swanee” is Shivering.. then he is not Coping with the Cold.

Knowing the Weather Forecast, there was Reason to Worry.
I Suggested he Shelter his Swan for a Few Day..
It would be Better to be Safe then Sorry..
Adding: Inside an Unheated Build.. it can get VERY Cold..
Provide Something for the Swan to Snuggle into.

An Area around their Dock was Expected to Remain UnFrozen.
He Placed a Carpet over the Dock, Mounted a Heat Lamp Under
the Dock to Create a Warm Air Space..

The Swan Never went Near the Dock..
Floated out in the Open through the Coldest Nights.
The Swan’s Legs were in the 33 Degree Water..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

I was Worried that the man might Set his Dock on Fire
from the Intense Heat of the Heat Lamp Bulb. (All was OK..)

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For Folks with Docks.. there are Under Dock Mount Circulating DeIcers.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

Personally, I would NOT Use These with Swans…
There is a FAN Propeller.. NO Guard.
I would be Afraid that Nosey Swans would Put their Beaks
into the Fan and get a Nasty Cut..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

These 3 Month Old Cygnets are Curious and Nosey.. Exploring Everything.

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WE are BLESSED !
Our Swans Now are on Ponds with Natural Open Areas.

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

The Pond where our Swans are this Winter has an Incredible
UnderGround Spring that Flows into the Pond at 54 Degrees..
and keeps 1/2 of the Upper Pond Open. They have their own Hot Tub !

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

YES ! ! … We Finally DO NOT need to add a DeIcing System.. ! !
So Far, they are doing Well there.. (Sigh) We are Very Lucky..

Keeping Open Water Winter Wake

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You are Doing the Best Thing.. You are Preparing and Learning.. (-;
PA SwanLover Linda Compiled from our Experiences February 2021
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Keeping a "Winter Wake" for Swans

A Winter Wake is a Disturbance in the Surface
of Water that Inhibits Freezing.