6 Steps for Pond and Lake Aeration System Maintenance
How important is aeration system maintenance? A question everyone asks when making a large purchase is “How long will it last?” A Vertex lake, pond, marina, canal, or reservoir aeration system is no different. And, like all equipment, it will do its job well for years to come so long as regular maintenance is performed, and with proper conditions met.
Depending on the environment, usage, and maintenance, a pond or lake aeration system should last over 10 years. Of course, sometimes there are outside forces that may shorten its life, like power surges and lightning strikes or flooding. But the average lifespan has been seen to be 9-13 years. There are even a few Vertex aeration systems that we still maintain that have been in service for 18 years!
Follow these aeration system maintenance steps:
1- FOLLOW SAFETY GUIDELINES
- Always disconnect your unit from the electrical supply circuit before opening.
- Use only Vertex parts. Use of non Vertex, ETL approved parts may result in poor performance and could create a hazardous situation.
- Never use oil, acid or corrosive cleaners on the compressors, they are designed to be oil free.
- Contact a qualified electrician or a Vertex Technical Advisor if the power cord is damaged or frayed, including the compressor, cooling fan, or outlets and for any other electrical needs.
- Shut off the system and contact an electrician or a Vertex Technical Advisor if the cabinet is producing unusual noises or odors.
2- CLEAR ALL DEBRIS
Remember to keep cabinet air inlets and outlets free of debris and weed growth to allow normal ventilation.
- Using a portable vacuum, air compressor or rags to remove debris, grass clippings and dirt from inside the cabinet.
- Remove any objects, or plants blocking the cabinet intake and fan exhaust vents.
- Keep all debris from around the system to allow maximum airflow to cool your system.
3- LUBRICATE THE CABINET – NOT THE COMPRESSORS!
Keep the cabinet locking mechanism and hinges rust free and operating smoothly to ensure you can always get in it.
4- TEST THE VALVES
It is a good idea to do this when you do the other maintenance to catch potential problems early.
- Open and close all valves to make sure they are fully operational. Lubricate them if necessary.
- Open the valves that were previously closed.
- Close the lid and turn on the system for two minutes.
- Return all valves to their original, balanced positions.
5- AIR FILTER CLEANING/REPLACEMENT
Do this 2-4 times per year, unless your environment is very dusty. For very dusty areas we recommend changing them every 3-4 weeks or as needed. Removing the compressor air intake filter and wash with soap and water or replace it. Never re-install a wet or damp filter.
6- PISTON CUP REPLACEMENT
Under normal year-round, continuous use, the compressor piston cups typically last 12-36 months depending upon the environmental conditions. As the piston cups wear out, you will notice a drop in air flow (despite air filter replacement) resulting in smaller surface boils.
As you can see, aeration system maintenance is not difficult. There may be other parts that need attention over time. Cooling fans may need replacing every 2-3 years during compressor maintenance. Even if they are working, maintaining a new cooling fan will keep your compressor cool and keep it from failing prematurely if the fan quits prematurely. You can rebuild compressors to increase the time between buying a full system replacement as well.
Take care of your aeration system to keep your water healthy for a very long time.
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Vertex Aquatic Solutions, founded in 1977, is the professionals’ choice for research based scientific consulting services, aeration systems, floating fountains, bubble curtains and biological products to enhance water quality in lakes, ponds, canals, marinas and reservoirs. As respected leaders in the lake management industry the Vertex team of aquatic biologists, limnologists, fisheries scientists and engineers work together to deliver science-based, environmentally sound solutions to complex waterbody issues. Our products and services are delivered through an international network of qualified, experienced waterbody professionals who provide local support, service and pond management expertise to customers.
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