Keeton Industries, Inc. » FAQs

Q: What is pond sludge?

admin — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:07:24 +0000

A: Pond sludge is the result of the accumulation of organic material, such as leaves, dead algae and waterfowl waste, on the bottom.

The buildup of organics on the pond bottom increase the demand for oxygen, which commonly leads to anoxic conditions (no oxygen) which further increase the rate of accumulation.

Q: Why are my fish gapping at the surface?

admin — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 11:36:33 +0000

A: Gapping fish indicate low oxygen levels.

The fish gape at the surface where oxygen levels are the highest in the water. In many cases this will be seen during a fish kill event and supplemental aeration is needed to increase oxygen levels immediately.

Q: I have seen aeration systems used in a pond or lake in the winter, but there is a hole in the ice… isn’t that dangerous to humans?

admin — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 18:33:03 +0000

A: Most pond and lakes that are using an aeration system in the winter, are trying to help the aquatic environment (beneath the ice); increase water quality for the fish and the desirable aquatic plants, and/or decrease sludge. Never try and walk on the ice when you see this. It is potentially hazardous because the ice is weak and you may fall thru. A warning sign may be required by local regulations.

Q: Is there anything I can do in the cold seasons so my pond is in better shape, come spring?

admin — Fri, 14 Dec 2012 21:31:18 +0000

A: Besides aeration, you can use cold water beneficial microbes that will continue to work and maintain your pond’s clarity and quality.

Keeton Industries is proud to offer a cold water microbe, Aqua-Tron : Cold Water Formula, that is active in 52° and below water temperatures. By combining this specialty microbe treatment and aeration, you will maintain your pond’s health and quality and save yourself more work in the spring!

Q: What is a “deicer” and why would I need one?

admin — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 15:00:23 +0000

A: A deicer can keep your pond or lake from freezing over with ice.

There are many reasons you would want to deice your pond or lake. Benefits of a deiced pond or a deiced lake include: prevent winter fish kills, attract waterfowl, prevent damage to docks and/or boat launches, prevent damage to boats, and water quality improvement.

For more information, check out ponddeicing.com

Q:Why can’t my fish live through the winter?

admin — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 08:05:10 +0000

A: Winter fish kills are a result of low oxygen levels, typically caused by a natural phenomenon known as fall and spring turnover a process that takes place during the stratification cycle. Please visit www.fish-kill.com for more information on winter fish kills, summer fish kills and ways to prevent a fish kill.

Q: Is my waterfall enough aeration for my pond?

admin — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 08:45:14 +0000

A: In almost all situations, a waterfall will not provide enough aeration to improve water quality.

Although they can be helpful, they will not do enough to maintain proper and healthy water quality. The falls may be large and drop deep into your pond, however the force is typically not powerful enough to add oxygen to the water column at varying depths. Also, if your pump intake is located near your waterfall, it will not circulate the whole pond.

Question submitted by Amanda.

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admin — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 16:40:23 +0000

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Q: What is a pond bubbler?

admin — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 16:17:00 +0000

A: A pond bubbler is another word for aeration system.

A pond bubbler/aeration system uses air compressors to force air to the pond bottom which is released through diffusers creating millions of small bubbles that rise to the surface. As the air bubbles up to the surface it eliminates stratification and increases dissolved oxygen levels.

Question submitted by Dave.

Q: How long does aeration (solar aerator) take to clear a pond?

admin — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 16:00:31 +0000

A: Changes take place in your pond immediately after starting up an aeration system, no matter if it is electric or solar. However in typical situations, it takes about 6 weeks to actually SEE improvements.

Question submitted by Anne.