How to Size a Pond Aerator by the Number of Diffusers

Every pond is unique in size, shape, and depth. 

Figuring out the number of diffusers needed to mix the entirety of the pond and working backwards can be a prudent strategy. For example, if you have a kidney shaped pond, you probably need at least 3 diffusers. Some ponds may need 4 if they have multiple coves.

Pond Aerator Sizing Steps:

1. Choose the number of diffusers based on the shape and size of your pond.
2. Identify which model diffuser you are going to buy. Manufacturers typically publish how much air flow is needed to “self-clean” – the amount of air flow that will keep the pores open and free of biological growth. Somewhere in the 30-40 LPM (liter per minute) is common and creates good circulation.
3. Figure out the back pressure of your system (water pressure + diffuser backpressure + tubing friction loss). For a detailed step-by-step process, check out our article: https://www.hiblow-usa.com/2022/06/07/pond-aerator-how-to-calculate-backpressure/
4. Once you have figured out the backpressure of the system, review the pond aerator performance curves to determine the total amount of air flow. Start with the aerator recommended in the Pond Aerator Sizing Recommendation Table and bump up to the next size if needed. Pressure and flow have an inverse relationship – if one goes up, the other goes down. Performance curves are available on our website and are explained in the backpressure article.
5. Divide the number of diffusers needed by the total air flow. Choose the pump that exceeds the amount of flow per diffuser suggested by the manufacturer.

More examples are on our website!

If you have any questions about choosing the right size pond aerator, please give us a call at 734-944-5032 or email us at info@hiblow-usa.com.

What Size Aerator Should You Buy?

Subsurface aeration is the best way to mechanically initiate the transfer of oxygen into a pond. Although micro bubbles – created by air flowing through a diffuser – add some dissolved oxygen, the greatest transfer occurs as water circulates to the surface. Water at the surface absorbs oxygen from the atmosphere and then circulates back to the bottom of the pond. Turning over the pond – the process of moving the entire volume of water to the surface periodically – creates an oxygen rich environment at all depths. In turn, fish can thrive, and conditions are right to break down organic matter and reduce/ prevent algae blooms.

Given the importance of water circulation, choosing the right size pond aerator is critical for getting the best results.

 Need help? We recommend two methods for choosing the right pond aerator - using our pond sizing recommendations chart, and sizing your aerator by the number of diffusers.

Visit our website to read more about each method!

Your Source for Pond Aerators and Aquaculture 

If you have any questions about choosing the right size pond aerator, please give us a call at 734-944-5032 or email us at info@hiblow-usa.com.