If you’ve ever walked up to your pond only to find it filled with murky algae coupled with an unbearable stench then you’re in desperate need of a pond aerator. Human beings need oxygen to survive and so does aquatic life. Waste eliminated by fish and tadpoles tend to contaminate the water. A pond aerator is designed to keep the water safe and clean.
From the above it’s clear that whether or not you need a pond aerator is really not up for discussion if you have a pond. Rather, deciding on which one to buy is the real issue. This is why we’ve decided to round up the top 9 pond aerators on the market. From our list of recommendations, the Airmax KoiAir 2 model is the best pond aerator. Not only is it a high quality device but it’s very easy to install and operates effectively. But feel free to compare all the products and their respective features (using the comparison table provided combined with pond aerator reviews) to pick the best one for you.
The pond aerators we picked were reviewed according to a number of important features with the focus being on the performance, length of airline, material, dimensions of the units. These tell you if it’s relevant to your needs. We also mention warranty periods so you can see the quality of the units you’re considering. A quick look at the detailed product reviews will reveal all you need to know about each item. Lastly, you can go through the buying guide as we give you pointers to help you purchase the right one. Chances are when you’re done with the article you’ll have a pretty good idea of which one to buy.
More features: Dual diaphragm, squeeze clamps (2), check valve (1)
We’ll begin the list with this Airmax KoiAir pond aerator which we’ve voted as our Editor’s choice. This device is the one to pick if you have a medium to large pond or water garden. It’s powerful enough to effectively distribute oxygen in ponds with between 1000 and 16 000 gallons of water. And it can be used in water that’s up to 4ft deep.
You’re likely to be impressed with the easy to install design. Setting it up will take you as little as 10 minutes.
But its energy efficiency is probably one of its most invaluable features. You don’t have to utilize as much power to use this aerator compared to many other models.
The 50ft airline is weighted so it’ll remain at the bottom of the pond even when filled with air. It won’t be interfering with your fish or the overall pond aesthetics. This heavy duty airline is very sturdy so it’ll last long. Plus, you’ll appreciate how the airline is resistant to kinks or snags for maximum performance.
The pump is also made of high quality materials and you’ll find it fairly easy to replace & maintain.
This model is reasonably priced and falls under the mid-range pond aerators.
Unfortunately, the aerator doesn’t come with a cover to protect it from the sun or rain. You’ll have to make a separate purchase.
Also, it’s not the quietest model on the market so be prepared for a little noise while it’s in use.
More features: quiet operation, 6 ft cord, 35 dB noise level
Next on our list is the HALF OFF PONDS Patriot Pond Subsurface Aeration System, the Customer’s Choice. It is known for its whisper-quiet operation, allowing you to enjoy the pool easily. The pond aerator is oil-free and energy-efficient and features a reliable and durable design. The aerator can be used indoors and outdoors too.
The HALF OFF PONDS Patriot Pond Subsurface Aeration System is ideal for medium-sized pools, up to 5,000 gallons. It is a step up from the HALF OFF PONDS Patriot Pond 1.4 Subsurface Aeration Air Pump, which can only be used on small ponds up to 2,500 gallons.
More features: 3 fountainheads included (Trumpet, Single-Tier, & 3-Tier), 3 automatic LED lights
If you’re looking for a pond aerator that’ll keep the water in your fountain free from murky algae, this product is for you. For this reason we’ve voted it the best fountain pond aerator on our list. It’s designed to be used in ¼ acre ponds which are considered moderate to large.
Make sure that your pond fountain is at least 2.5ft deep if you want this aerator to work effectively. The pump is very powerful and can push large amounts of air in a matter of seconds.
This device is made up of a combination of ceramic and plastic making it considerably durable. You’ll appreciate how the manufacturer added a few extra features such as decorative LED lights and a sensor. These lights will provide a visually appealing water display especially at night. The lights will switch off automatically during the day to conserve energy. However a few users have noticed that the lights failed after a short time.
This aerator is also energy efficient making it a cost effective product. You don’t have to worry about running up your electricity bill if you use it.
Upon unboxing your package you’ll find three fountain heads included.
The product is covered by a two year warranty but only if you register it with the manufacturer after purchase. Also, note that the warranty works via the manufacturer and not the dealer.
Some people feel the power cord is rather short. But it’s to be expected considering that it’s not really a heavy duty aerator.
Installation is generally simple. You’re only likely to be annoyed with the long cord because it constantly tangles.
More features: can be used outside, ideal for a pond that has a regular shape, such as round or oval
If you have a regular shaped pond which is either round or oval, this is the unit for you. But make sure that your pond is not bigger than 3/8 acres. The device is very powerful and will leave your water clear in a few days.
This aerator can infuse oxygen in water that’s up to 7ft deep.
By using this model, you won’t be running up your utility bill because this aerator is energy efficient. This is thanks to the oil-free aeration system incorporated in the unit.
In addition, you’ll appreciate how it runs quiet.
This is one of the few aerators that come complete with an aeration kit. Inside the package you’ll find 50ft tubing and a diffuser. Both the tubing and diffuser are covered by an impressive 5 year warranty. On the other hand, the compressor is covered by a 3 year warranty. This is shorter, but still impressive in this niche.
This product will last you a long time because it’s housed in a water resistant enclosure. It’s designed to withstand extreme weather conditions to prolong its operating life.
The aerator is considerably cheaper so you don’t have to break the bank to own one.
Unfortunately the air line isn’t weighted so you’ll have to purchase a weight separately.
But overall not only does it work well but it’ll last long. Many people have noted that it still functions perfectly a year later.
More features: Outdoor-rated, energy efficient 15-watt compressor, suitable for wintertime
There are aerators that work well throughout the year but this model will perform exceptionally well in winter. As a result, we’ve rated this product as the best winter pond aerator. It’s designed to keep your fish safe through those cold winter months by providing quality water conditions.
Consider this aerator if you have a small to medium sized pond. It can aerate up to 5000 gallons of water.
You’ll be happy to know that the product comes with an energy efficient compressor.
One of the product’s huge draw cards is that it has a clog resistant diffuser which allows for maximum performance.
The air line is 30” long although some people feel it’s too short compared to other models. But it’s also weighted so the tube will be kept at the bottom of the pond at all times.
This aerator is covered by a three year warranty on all manufacturing defects.
To own this product you can manage your budget easily because it’s relatively inexpensive.
You can expect a long lasting product because it’s made using high quality materials which are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
The unit is designed to minimize vibration and run quietly which you’ll appreciate if you want a tranquil space.
We’re only concerned with the quality of the seal at the bottom of the aerator. It tends to breach over time.
Overall the aerator works as expected. Your water will be left clean, clear and safe.
More features: High efficient and quiet 1/2 Hp Oil-less Rocking Piston Air Pump
We’ll quickly warn you that this aerator is probably one of the most expensive models on our list. But if you have a little extra cash to spend you can buy this model which has an impressive aeration system. No wonder we’ve voted this pond aerator as having the best aeration system on our list. Thanks to this system, your pond water is not only left clear but also safe for your fish.
Pick this powerful machine if you want to aerate large ponds that are up to 3 acres in size.
As if that’s not enough, it can effectively oxygenate water that runs up to 5ft deep.
This is thanks to the powerful motor.
Though it’s highly efficient and extremely powerful, this model surprisingly runs quiet. This is because it features rubber mounts which work by minimizing vibration.
Note that the tubing is covered by a two year warranty while the diffuser is covered by five.
Not only is the compressor efficient but extremely reliable. It won’t be failing on you anytime soon. This is thanks to the air filter which is designed to extend the operating life of the compressor.
You don’t have to worry about any back pressure from this heavy duty aerator because it features a pressure relief valve.
The overall construction of the unit is pretty solid as evidenced by the stainless steel base for added stability.
We’re only disappointed that the pump isn’t waterproof. As a result be sure to purchase a waterproof box to cover it.
More features: winter resistant air line, preassembled check valves and weighted air stones
If the HQUA PAS20 pond aerator is too expensive for you then pick this affordable Aquascape model. It’s so inexpensive that we’ve rated it our budget pick.
Will the low cost negatively affect its performance? Not really. This is a cost effective aerator that‘ll effectively aerate your pond without using much energy. And the best part is it can oxygenate large ponds with up to 600 gallons of water even if they’re a bit over 8ft deep.
The aerator comes with plenty of tubing which you’ll find handy if your pool is located far from the power source.
You’ll be happy to know that despite being a powerful device it runs quiet.
Also, the aerator comes with a water resistant air line so it’ll last you considerably longer than some.
The air line not only features pre-assembled pressure valves to prevent back splash but it’s also weighted. It‘ll be kept at the bottom of your lake or pond during the aeration process.
So what are the trade offs for the low price? Unfortunately the discs aren’t weighted so they’ll float. In addition, the pump isn’t protected from extreme weather elements so we can’t guarantee its durability. And it doesn’t help that the pump isn’t covered by waterproof housing so you’ll have to purchase it separately.
However the product is covered by a two year limited warranty in case you experience any problems.
Overall the product is made of impressive quality materials considering the low price. And it’ll keep your water clean without using too much energy.
More features: 1/4 HP compressor, 100′, 3/8” weighted tubing, and a single head membrane diffuser
According to many customers, this AirPro pond aerator is the best on the market. We believe its impressive performance has something to do with that. It’s surprisingly powerful considering its small size. One would think it can’t handle a one acre large pond but it can. This is thanks to the powerful motor.
The aerator can be used in water that’s 5ft deep which is deeper than the model reviewed above.
For your safety concerns you’ll appreciate how it operates without running electricity through the water. There’s absolutely no risk of either you or your fish being electrocuted while it’s in use.
The construction of the device is very solid. It’s made using superior material that guarantees its durability. As a result you can use the aerator throughout the year regardless of weather conditions.
Like the Airmax model reviewed above, this aerator also features a weighted heavy duty airline. The airline will be kept under water—and out of sight—during the aeration process.
The compressor is covered by a two year limited warranty while the tubing and diffuser are both covered by five years.
You’ll be happy to know that this product runs quiet. And you’ll find the unit easy to install.
Note however that it’s rather pricy.
A few users have expressed concern regarding the durability of the compressor. If it happens to fail feel free to contact the manufacturer.
More features: Salt water approved, spray pattern adjusts from 10-22ft wide
Not all pond aerators can handle salt water. It takes a certain kind of aerator such as this Scott Display model to handle such conditions. This is thanks to the stainless steel exterior which won’t be damaged by salt water. For this reason we’ve voted this model as the best salt water aerator on our list. But note that you can also use it in fresh water ponds.
Environmentally conscious individuals will appreciate the unit further because it features an oil-free submersible motor which won’t damage the environment.
Note however that this product works best for small ponds. It’s designed to aerate up to 400 gallons of water. Water must be between 10 and 22ft wide for this aerator to function effectively.
The material used in the product’s construction can handle exposure to the hot sun because it’s UV-resistant.
This aerator is designed for continuous operation and you’ll also appreciate how no maintenance is required on this product whatsoever.
Unfortunately it doesn’t come with a lighting kit so you’ll have to make a separate purchase if you want one.
Also, the tube tends to clog during use with algae every now and again.
Overall you’ll find this aerator simple to set up and operate. Plus it performs as expected. Your pond will be left clear and clean in no time.
Are you ready to go pond aerator shopping? It’s important to make a sound purchase to avoid any regrets. This is why we’ve included this buyer’s guide to help you make the right pick. We’ll discuss the main features and answer a few questions you might have regarding pond aerators. Hopefully after reading this article your decision making process will go smoothly.
We’ve established that if you own a pond, having a pond aerator is non-negotiable. Why? Pond aerators work by infusing oxygen into the water and circulating it. Not only will this process spread the oxygen but it also keeps the water at the right temperature for the pond fish.
Pond aeration helps control algae in the pond and also removes unpleasant odors from the water. As a result the quality of water is improved and your fish survive.
As you might be aware, stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. In addition, insects tend to lay eggs in stagnant waters. By circulating water in the pond, water stagnation is prevented.
Not all bacteria found in the pond are bad. Pond aeration helps healthy bacteria to thrive.
As mentioned earlier, aquatic life tends to express waste into the water which makes it toxic over time. This can prove to be fatal for your fish if the water is left untreated. Aeration works by breaking down these toxic substances to restore the water to its natural safe state.
Pond aerators are technical devices so it’s important to know what specs to look for in order to make a sound decision. It doesn’t help that they come with different features which can be confusing if you’ve never bought one before.
To make things easier for you, we’ve listed the most important features you need to consider before buying your pond aerator. By having an idea of what to look for, it makes your search for the ideal pond aerator much easier.
The first thing you want to look at before deciding which pond aerator to purchase is the size of your pool.
Get a professional to measure the amount of water in the pool to determine the correct aerator pump size to buy. Don’t worry about getting the exact gallons of water correct, a rough estimation will suffice.
A large pond will require a powerful machine that can effectively pump water throughout. On the other hand, if you have a small pond, a smaller machine will do. The AirPro Pond Aerator kit by Living Water can handle the largest pond or lake that’s up to 1 acre big. Or you can consider the Airmax KoiAir 2 which can aerate up to 16 000 gallons of water.
Aside from the overall size, you need to consider how deep your pool is. Each pond aerator has a maximum depth point that it can effectively work in. If the device goes any lower than the stipulated depth point, there’s no guarantee that all the water will be properly aerated. Make sure you not only measure the size but depth of the pond to get the right machine.
From our list of recommendations the Aquascape pond aerator can handle water which is almost 9ft deep.
While you’re considering the size and depth of your pond, don’t forget the shape. The shape of your pond will determine the type of aerator you must buy. Different aerators have varying diffusion systems. But generally, round shaped ponds can be aerated by almost any type of diffusion system. The EasyPro PA6SWN is the best pond aerator to use on round or oval shaped ponds. Unfortunately the same can’t be promised if you have an irregular shaped pond. In such cases, it may be difficult for the machine to distribute oxygen properly throughout the pond.
Speaking to a professional service provider will give you more clarity on this aspect if you’re unsure.
PerformanceThe performance of the aerator you pick is important. When we’re discussing the performance of this device we measure the amount of oxygen the aerator adds into the water each hour. Ideally you want a machine that’s powerful enough to aerate your entire pool. Make sure you pick an aerator that can adequately handle the size of your pond.
The airline on the machine will determine the amount of air it can pump out in relation to the pond size. You want an airline that’s long because it also affects the installation process. Aerators with long air lines are easier to install compared to their shorter counterparts. The only drawback with long air lines such as the Airmax aerator is that they tend to tangle often.
In addition you also want one that’s weighted so it can sink to the bottom of the pond. You don’t want the airline in sight during the process as it interferes with the aesthetics of the pond plus it can be a safety hazard.
If it’s not weighted then you’ll have to purchase the weights separately.
These aerators are made using different materials such as plastic, metal, ceramic or stainless steel.
The material used in the construction of the unit affects its durability. Opt for one made of long lasting materials. This way it’s able to withstand extreme weather conditions; be it rain or heat.
This will determine whether you can use the device throughout the year or during certain seasons only.
In addition the material affects the water you can use the device in. Case in point; the Scott Display Pond Aerator Fountain, 1/2 HP is ideally used in salt water because of its stainless steel exterior.
These pond aerators come in varying dimensions. The size of the product will more or less influence the pond size it can operate in. Small aerators will work best in smaller ponds while the larger devices are ideal for bigger ponds. But the performance of the aerator plays a bigger role regarding how effective the machine will be regardless of the pool size.
In addition, the dimensions will also influence mobility in cases where you want to move the product from your home to the pond. Will you need help carrying the aerator or is it light enough to carry alone?
Power CordBefore buying your aerator you need to consider the length of the power cord in relation to the power source. The lengths vary with each model but you want to pick one that’s long enough to run from your power source to the pond. Make sure you measure how far your pond is from the source of power to avoid buying an aerator with a short power cord. Buying one with a longer cord is much better compared to the latter.
Aside from the length you want to pick one that’s water resistant. When submerged in water it should not get damaged. In addition, you and your fish must be at no risk of electrocution whatsoever.
The last thing you need is to buy a pond aerator that’ll fail after a few months with no guarantee that covers it. Malfunctions aren’t uncommon given the electrical nature of these devices. Your best bet is to purchase a model that’s covered by the manufacturer with a reasonable warranty period.
Make sure you pay attention to the fine print regarding what parts are covered, including the duration of the warranty. As you might have noticed from our reviews above, different parts are covered by different warranties. For instance, with the HQUA PAS20 Pond & Lake Aeration System, the tubing is covered for two years while the diffuser is covered for five.
Make sure you know whether the product is covered by the dealer or the manufacturer. Also, find out if you need to register the aerator for the warranty to become valid or not as is the case with the Pond Boss DFTN12003L.
Some manufacturers include a few additional features on their products. But before you purchase your pond aerator make sure it has features you actually need.
A good example of worthwhile features include LED lights. This will come in pretty handy if you want to enhance the visual aesthetics of your pond at night. The Pond Boss DFTN12003L is an example of a pond aerator that comes with these lights. Either pick a model with lights, or you’ll have to make an additional purchase which might not be cost effective.
Some manufacturers include weighted stones with their products to keep the air line down, as is the case with the Aquascape 75000 Pond Air 2.
Another extra feature worth considering is water resistant housing to cover the pump. This will significantly increase the lifespan of the product.
The amount of money you have will obviously influence the pond aerator you buy. But don’t necessarily settle for the cheapest as you might forfeit a few crucial features. Case in point; an airline that’s not weighted will be considerably cheaper than one which is.
On the other hand, you don’t have to purchase the most expensive aerator on the market because this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best.
Rather, evaluate the above-mentioned features and make sure the model you pick has the specs you need for your pond.
If you still need help singling out the best pond aerator, take your cue from our top three picks. Our best pick is the Airmax KoiAir 2 pond aerator. Not only can it aerate large ponds with 16 000 gallons of water but it’s energy efficient. Plus, it features a solid construction so it’ll last long.
Secondly, we have the HALF OFF PONDS Patriot Subsurface Aeration System, which is powerful enough to run a 5,000-gallons pool and extremely quiet. It is also energy-efficient and highly durable, ideal for indoor and outdoor use.
In third place is the Pond Boss DFTN12003L. This fountain pond aerator runs quietly and is easy to install. But more than anything else we appreciate that it features attractive LED lights.
From our recommendations which pond aerator will you buy?
