In talking to koi keepers and while researching pond health I continually came across the importance of aeration of the pond. Apparently the air movement through the water increases oxygen levels in the pond through contact with the water. Oxygen is key to fish health, beneficial bacteria growth, and supposedly will help fight algae. I thought that my wide waterfall would do the trick but upon inspection I was only aerating the top 8-10 inches. So I did some research to find the proper aeration unit for my pond, then in typical “me” fashion, doubled it. The cost difference was minimal and I figured the unit would decrease volume over time.
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I purchased the Pondmaster AP40. Its parts are easily found and replaced over time and it had good reviews compared to commercial models and was half the price of similar volume air pumps. I ordered it through ebay and it arrived promptly. I purchased 1/2″ hose from my local pond supply and an air stone. An Airstone looks like a piece of rectangular pummus stone with a threaded tube inside. It makes small bubbles as the air passes through it. While quite heavy the air flow can lift it easily.
Installation was easy – attach hose and airstone, plug it in, drop tube and airstone in pond.
Cost:
Airpump – $105 (free shipping, no taxes)
10′ hose – $15
Connector (hose barb-> threaded) – $3.5
airstone – $28
Total: $155 (inc taxes)
UPDATE 7/15: The aeration of the pond seems to have little ability to prevent/reduce algae. The fish do seem to like swimming in its bubbles.
