Otterbine Barebo, Inc. – FAQs

FAQs

 

What is the difference between an aerator and fountain?
Aerators provide water quality management by adding oxygen and inducing circulation in your pond virtually eliminating algae growth, foul odors, insect breeding, and fish kills. Surface aerators do this by pulling water from the lower levels of the pond and throwing the water into the air. As the droplets travel through the air they trap atmospheric oxygen, releasing this oxygen into the water as they strike the surface. In essence, the more water that is pumped into the air, the more oxygen will be transferred into the water. Aerators pump high volumes of water at low pressure.

A fountain’s main function is to create an aesthetically pleasing decorative pattern with minimal aeration qualities. Fountains pump low volumes of water at higher pressure. By capping off the high pumping rate and channeling pressurized water through various nozzles you are able to achieve more decorative and elaborate patterns.

Why a floating aerator or fountain?
In addition to the aesthetics of an aerator and fountain, a floating aerator and fountain has these benefits:

What are the benefits of aeration during winter?

What do you recommend for unit removal during winter?
If you live in a region of the country that experiences long periods of cold weather it may be necessary to take the aerator out of the water. Know that damage caused to the unit due to freezing in will NOT be covered under warranty. For recommendations, refer to the list below: (click here for tips on storage & maintenance)

Remove These Units from Water in Winter

Units that Can Remain in Water During Winter*
The following units can stay in the water, however, they should run a minimum of 12 hours a day, preferably 24 hours a day to avoid freezing in and damaging the motor/pump. (NOTE: If you experience severe weather for prolonged periods we suggest that you remove and store unit.) *If power is shut down and the unit is frozen in, you must wait until the ice clears to turn it back on or severe motor damage may occur.

 

What size system for your pond or lake?
In ponds less than 6 ft (2m) we recommend 2 HP per surface acre or 4,000 square meters. In effluent lakes and ponds with a history of algae, fish kills, and odor problems use 2.5 – 3 HP per surface acre or 4,000 square meters.
 
Where to place in pond?
Placement of an aerator can vary depending on the pond condition and shape. A single aerator should be placed in the area that will give you the greatest amount of circulation. If the pond has severe algae conditions or is irregularly shaped, more than one aerator may be best to generate the maximum circulation. Click here to see diagrams of placement.
 
What are the minimum depths required?
Aerating Fountains 30 in (75 cm)* + additional 10 in (26 cm) when adding lights
Large Aerating Fountains 40 in (100 cm)*
Industrial Aerators - High Volume 40 in (100 cm)
Industrial Aerators - Mixers and Aspirators 3 ft (92 cm)
Diffused Aeration 6 ft (2 m)
Giant Fountains 6 ft (2 m)
Fractional Series 16 in (41 cm)*
Instant Fountain 18 in (46 cm)*
* It is possible to excavate a small area under the aerator to allow it to float.
 
Will debris clog the aerator or fountain?
Most units come with a debris screen to eliminate clogging with the exception of the High Volume, Gemini, Saturn, Sunburst because they are designed with a “chopper” type impeller which cuts and passes weeds and debris through the unit. 
 
Do I need an electrician to install the product?
Installation is fairly simple, but will require the services of a certified electrician for the electrical install.
 
What type of power supply do I need?
When determining which unit will best fit your needs, you should also consider what power supply is available. Power supplies come in either single phase (otherwise known as ‘residential voltage’) or three phase, (which is associated with commercial and professional sites.). Our units generally operate on 115V or 230V Single Phase or Three Phase depending on horsepower.
 
Why does my pond get algae?
First, let us find out what algae is. Algae are simple types of plant life ranging from microscopic specks to seaweed that conduct photosynthesis but without stems, roots, and leaves. Algae are components to your pond’s ecosystem, however an excessive amount of algae destroys your water quality. Some factors which point to excessive algae growth is sunlight and temperature, nutrients, and oxygen. To read more about these factors and water quality, please read the article “Causes of Water Quality Problems”.
 
What is the Warranty on Otterbine systems?
Aerating Fountains 5 years
Large Aerating Fountains 2 years
Industrial Aerators 3 years
Diffused Aeration 2 years
Giant Fountains 2 years
Fractional Series 2 years
Instant Fountain 2 years
Fountain Glo™ Lights 1 year

Where to Locate Otterbine Serial Numbers?
Otterbine Serial Numbers can be found in a variety of places depending on the product line. Click here to See Images.
All product serial numbers can be found on:

What is the evaporation rate?
The evaporation rate is 1/10th of 1% of the primary pumping rate.  Click here to read more on Spray Evaporation.

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