Pond Algae Control

Pond Ionizers For Algae Control

One of the most recent devices to enter the pond care market is something called a pond ionizer and it promises to be a relatively affordable and safe system for helping to control algae in small ponds, water gardens, and pondless waterfalls.

Ionizers are best known in the air purification market and many “air ionizers” have been sold over the years. In simple terms ionizers use electrical power and current to ionize air particles. They add a positive or negative charge to these particles which is purported to purify the air.

A pond ionizer however uses a similar electrical charge which runs through what’s called an anode. The anode is made out of copper and is placed in the water flow line. By controlling the amount of electrical current going through the anode, the release of copper ions can be controlled within in the pond water itself.

Now you may ask, why is this important?

Copper Is Toxic To Algae

Primarily the main power behind copper, in terms of in pond use, is that copper is toxic to many algae types (including string algae and green water) and it can be used to control and kill many algae blooms. This is why copper has been traditionally been one of the main ingredients of algaecide chemicals.

One problem with copper algaecides however, and in this discussion we’re talking about small pond treatments, is that small bodies of water are completely enclose or confined ecosystems. With such small volumes of water, there is not as much room, or buffering for mistakes in dosage, or other changes that can happen when algae is treated with a chemical.

Algaecides can and often are used in koi ponds and many times there are no problems however other people have experienced complete fish loss when products like this are misapplied or conditions are not supportive of the fish during the treatment. Because of these experiences many pond owners have begun to shy away from copper algaecides in smaller ponds and other algae control alternatives are always being considered.

Editors Note: It should also be mentioned that in many areas of the U.S. consideration and concern is also being given to the use of copper algaecides in large municipal ponds and waters. We’ll discuss these in more depth in a future article.

Why A Pond Ionizer May Help

One of the interesting and potentially beneficial features of many pond ionizers is that they have some type of gauge or dial in which the amount of current going to the anode can be controlled. As the current charge rises, more copper can be released and as the current is lowered less copper is added to the water. As yet, these are not self adjusting systems, but they can easily be managed by the push of a button or turning of a dial.

Ideally the pond owner would want to use just enough power/copper to maintain a clear, algae-free pond. This allows the use of the lowest amount of copper in the water, and it allows a longer life of the anode. Most anodes under normal conditions will last a year or longer and then it will need to be replaced to ensure consistent operation.

The water should be tested frequently for copper concentrations (using test strips) and after awhile one can generally get a feel for where the device needs to be set to maintain clear water.

A Few Precautionary Notes

A pond ionizer may sound like the perfect solution to algae control and they will certainly be sold as such by many manufacturers. However some precautions and preconditions need to be kept in mind to ensure safe and effective use.

First, it’s important to follow ALL of the manufacturers recommendations on the units. In most cases mention will be made of the importance of water parameters such as the pH, alkalinity, and hardness of the pond water. The basic numbers would go something like this. pH readings should ideally be in the 7.2 to 7.8 range and this can shift a good bit during the day, as well as when heavy loads of organic material are in the pond.

Perhaps more importantly is the amount of alkalinity in the water. The ideal range for use of an ionizer should be somewhere between 80 to 120 mg/L or ppm’s. Alkalinity levels dramatically affect the copper retention in pond water. A high pH and hardness will increase the precipitation or, in another word, the evaporation of copper in the pond. It either won’t last long enough to do much good or it will disappear so quickly that the copper anode will degrade prematurely.

On the other end of the spectrum, low alkalinity increases the duration of copper and this can be problematic when it’s constantly being added to the water, even in small amounts. In readings where the alkalinity is below 50 mg/L copper can build up to toxic levels over time and may cause harm to fish. In most cases a copper level reading of 0.2 to 0.25 should be safe for fish and be able to control algae.

And finally it needs to be remembered that although the control box and other components of the pond ionizer will last a long time, the one part of the system that will not is the anode. These will dissolve over time to the point where they will need to be replaced. In most situations, one should last for at least a year or possibly longer, however if a pond is fairly dirty, or the alkalinity is running on the high range, then it’s possible that the anode will degrade more quickly. Current market prices for the replacements are running from $80 to $100 and that should be a consideration when comparing this technology to other options. Replacement of the anode is quite simple where the old one is unscrewed and the new one is put in it’s place.

Our Recommendations On Where To Use A Pond Ionizer

Based on the current technology and the parameters mentioned above, some pond experts have concerns about using an ionizer in a pond with fish. To us, this concern is a valid one, despite the fact that many reports indicate that koi pond owners are using the systems with good results. Our suggestion is to follow the axiom of “buyer beware”. If someone does their due diligence and insures that their water quality is fairly stable and within the range suggested for good operation it’s very likely you will have success with the unit and no adverse problems. However pond environments are not static and can change from time to time so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on things to maintain safety levels.

In our opinion, a pond ionizer may have tremendous benefits for those with small ornamental ponds and no fish, or pondless waterfalls. Fountains and other water features may benefit greatly from an ionizer and routine cleaning and treatments can be reduced and in a sense, automated. In the readings that the devices produce, there is no indication that pets or other wildlife will be harmed from drinking the water. (As we noted above the main risk is for fish and only if water parameters our outside the suggested range.)

A pond ionizer can obviously have great benefits to certain pond and water applications since copper is a proven algae control mechanism. Nevertheless, they may not be perfect for every single situation but with some initial research and information such as we’ve provided here, many people will be able to decide for themselves as to whether it might be a good tool for their ponds.

Can A UV Pond Filter Control Algae?

by Mark

A UV pond filter may be one of your very best options at controlling algae in your small pond or water garden. UV or ultraviolet light is touted by manufacturers as a very good tool for algae control but some of the claims need to be clarified to ensure that this type of device will actually help you with your current problem.
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Ultrasonic Algae Control And It’s Uses

by Mark

If you’re old enough to remember the original Star Trek TV show, it’s not much of a stretch to look at todays cell phones and chuckle a little bit at the similarities. Technology is truly shaping life as we know it today and it has many benefits. Pond owners aren’t immune to the benefits of high tech equipment and in particular, those who own large ponds with algae problems may now have a tool that will help.

Ultrasound has found many uses since it’s invention. Many are familiar with it’s medical or dental applications, but did you know that pond algae can be affected as well? It’s true. Ultrasonic algae control is, in some cases, replacing the use of chemical algaecides in an effective and eco-friendly way.

Ultrasonic systems work by using a transducer that’s placed in the water. This component is submerged slightly below the surface and continuously sends out an ultrasound wave which, in effect, creates vibrations in an algae cell. Regardless of what type of algae you’re seeing in a pond, all of them are made up of individual cells. And as these cells become damaged through consistent vibrations, they become disabled or die. In simple terms, this is how ultrasound works.

The technology has been in use for almost a decade now, at least in terms of testing. For the last 5 or 6 years ultrasonic algae control has been used in the U.S. . Like any new application, improvements have been made that improve the performance and effectiveness. It’s important that an ultrasound system uses very precise frequencies. The sounds must match the frequency of an actual algae cell, and the closer they can get to that, the more effective they will be.

It’s estimated that for most algae types, ultrasound will be effective from 70 to 100% of the time. There are algae types that, because of their cellular structure, are more hardy and resistent to the vibrations.

Most green water, or planktonic algae can be affected positively, and many types of string algae can be reduced. Normally, after installation, which is often quite simple using an attached float, the device will remain in the water and running continuously. After several weeks, there should be a noticeable difference in the algae. If a device has been in use for 2 to 3 months or about 90 days, and not gotten results, then it’s most likely due to the type of algae that’s present. In cases like this, ultrasound may have helped to an extent but may need more assistance from other types of treatments such as a short term use of an algaecide.

There are models available to treat most sizes of ponds. In terms of the American made Sonic Solutions models, these range from the ss100 which will treat any pond up to about 100 feet in length, to the ss600 which can be used for very large waters ranging up to about 800 feet.

So how do you know if ultrasound is a viable option for your pond?

First, you may want to test to determine the types of algae that are in your pond. Ultrasonic algae control has been used long enough now to narrow down what it will and won’t work on. The test results can be compared to a database of results and whether ultrasound is worth trying or not.

Trials and rentals are available from some companies and ultimately this is the best way to find out if ultrasound will work. There is nothing quite like putting a unit in a pond to find out how well it will do. Usually these rentals will run about 3 months giving one adequate time to test the effectiveness.

For ultrasound to work, it must have a clear line of sight to affect the algae. Islands or other obstructions in the middle of the pond will affect the performance. Also, the transducer which sits underwater, should not be placed too close to a mud lined bottom. Clearance of about 3 feet or more is helpful for the best effect and reduces the absorbtion of the sounds waves into the mud.

If a pond has harder water in it, calcium and other mineral deposits may routinely form on the transducer head. These should be cleaned periodically with a mixture of warm water and vinegar to ensure optimum performance.

Be sure as well to run the unit continuously once it’s installed. It is the constant bombardment of the sound waves that ultimately affect the algae. And finally, if string algae is the main issue, it is often helpful to use some type of treatment to knock down or kill any algae present, then start the ultrasound system. In other words, it’s best to start with a clean pond and use ultrasound as a deterrent to new growth rather than a treatment for what may be present. Green water can be treated as is without the use of an algaecide.

When these basic tips are kept in mind, ultrasonic algae control has shown very good results in a variety of pond settings and for those who are wanting to cut down on chemical applications or the inherent costs of treating a larger pond, ultrasound may turn out to be a great alternative.

Pond Algae Control Tips

by Mark

Pond algae control honestly isn’t something that most pond owners think of when they’re first starting out. Usually we have visions of a beautiful fish pond full of koi or goldfish, some pristine plants, and a breath taking waterfall. The last thing we think of is everything turning green!

The sad reality though is that for many, the fight against pond algae, and learning how to control it is something most people will have to deal with.

Pond algae can show up in many forms but the most common will be some type of string algae, which is thick strands of growth that may extend up from the pond of the pond or spread across the surface. It would be hard to compare string algae to anything other than maybe spinach which might be good for you, but many people don’t like that either!

Another very common form of algae is green water, which is actually made of up single cell algae of various species. The color of pond water can vary from a light tinting of green or brown to a heavy, seemingly solid soup of green color. One would think that nothing could survive in water like this but the fact is, in most cases, fish will do fine. A pond owner won’t however because they may go months without ever seeing their prized koi.

Algae can be found clinging to the sides of a pond, whether it’s natural or has a rubber liner. Waterfall rocks are also a prime growing ground even though they may have a constant flow of water running over them.

What Causes Pond Algae?

It’s important to realize that algae is like any plant. It needs certain things to grow well, and if those things are present…well you know the rest of the story.

What we’re talking about here are things like ample sunlight, abundant “fertilizer” or plant food, and relatively warm temperatures. Sunlight and temperature are pretty self-explanatory, but what about the food for algae?

If algae were a vegetable most gardeners would get this one right away and particularly when we start talking about compost. Compost is, for the most part, made up of dead organic material that is slowly rotting away or being naturally broken down into other forms of stuff that can be used, consumed or assimilated by something else. Your pond actually has some compost in it too.

It might be dead leaves, grass clippings, dying pond plants, dead algae and other good things like that. Coupled with the waste from fish, you have an organic cocktail that algae will surely love. And it doesn’t matter if your pond is big or small, the same general principals apply (although fish have much less affect in larger waters).

A Common Algae Treatment

Common sense would usually suggest that the best way to handle an unwanted growth of algae is to treat it like a lawn weed. With those most folks would either pull it out manually or try to kill it in some way, and so it is with algae.

Manual removal is really a safe approach to dealing with string algae (it won’t work on green water obviously) but it can also become quite a chore if the algae is growing quickly. After awhile the ongoing frustration may lead to simply wanting to kill the plant with a chemical known as an algaecide. These usually contain some form of copper or copper sulphate which is toxic to most algea.

There may be times when an algaecide is useful and effective but there are also trade-offs in using them. First of all, as we noted above, it’s organic nutrient levels that greatly determine whether algae will thrive or not and as long as they’re present, algae has the opportunity to grow aggressively. This means that if you take the chemical route, you’ll need to use them often to keep things in check. Normally when an algaecide is applied, algae will die off very fast, and this can pose a hazard to fish. When any plant dies, it will pull dissolved oxygen from the water and the fish need this to survive. And some areas around the U.S. are now banning the use of copper algaecides because of an increase in the metal concentrations in their water systems.

Despite the fact that algaecides may not address the root of the problem of algae, they may have some benefit to controlling spots or areas of growth that may be stubborn. Nature however has a better approach in many cases and that’s by using special bacteria to help break down organic elements in the pond and lower nutrients. This is, in a sense, Mother Nature’s pond cleaning mechanism and it works well if it’s supported and natural algae control is possible.

Most of the bacteria that’s doing the work is aerobic which means in needs oxygen to function. Some ponds have good levels and some don’t, and for those that do not, an aeration kit may be very useful. Coupled with some supplemental beneficial bacteria, many ponds can be restored and algae reduced without the use of chemicals entirely.

Small fish ponds benefit greatly from this approach because it’s much safer than using a chemical algae killer. Owners of large ponds can also lose fish because of misapplication of a chemical too, so no one is immune to risk, and therefore, biological tools can be useful on big water as well.

Other Algae Control Tools

In addition to algaecides, beneficial bacteria, and aeration, there are other tools that may help with algae issues. One worth investigation, and particularly if your pond is large, is ultrasound or ultrasonic algae control. This device uses sound waves, specifically tuned to match the vibrational frequency of an algae cell. As this sound wave travels through the water is creates a resonance or vibration in the algae and it begins to break apart.

Ultrasound seems like science fiction but it does actually work and has proven to be effective a good deal of the time. Many industries such as waste water operations are beginning to use it more for controlling algae in lagoons and basins. And pond owners can benefit as well.

Pond dye is another tool that may help with algae problems. Since sunlight is a major support of plant growth, limiting this exposure may reduce algae of various types. It works particularly well on algae at the bottom of a shallow pond.

And finally, many people have heard about, and asked about barley straw. Dried barley straw has been used overseas for many years to good effect and both small and large ponds have benefited somewhat from using it in the U.S. As the straw decomposes in the water it releases several substances which have proven toxic to some types of algae.

Barley straw may not work in every case but when it does it can provide several months of good control and a relatively low cost. The only way to really know if it will be effective in your particular pond is to try it.

Pond Dye For Algae And Weed Control

by Mark

Pond algae and aquatic weeds are a common problem for many people. A common question that’s often asked is, can pond dye help?

In most cases, the answer is yes. To stop algae and weeds from taking over, pond dye can help get the water cleared up once again. There are many dye products available to address such situations. They work in a natural way, which will not harm fish, frogs and other aquatic life that may exist under the water’s surface. Such products are safe for humans, pets and other animals. If used correctly they will not discolor skin or hair.

Blue pond dye does not work by directly killing the unwanted algae and growth. It works by blocking light that is essential for the growth of plant life. Though much of this growth may sit on the bottom or bed of the lake, the sun’s rays are still able to get through to continue the process of photosynthesis. Aquashade, which is one type of dye, works by diffusing the sun’s rays from getting past the surface of the water, and limits light exposure to the algae and other unwanted plant life that grows from the lower regions of the water.

Using a natural product has many obvious benefits. There is no need to worry about pets or children being harmed by playing in the water. Fish and other live creatures do not need to be removed prior to treatment. Chemicals, such as algaecides or herbicides, can leach into the ground surrounding the water source. If gardens or other planting areas are located nearby, they could be affected. Pond dye does not add harsh chemicals and is non-toxic. It is good for the water source, the surrounding area and for those who play in or near the water.

If you decide to use a product such as pond dye, do not be alarmed when it comes out of the packets or container looking black. It will get lighter as it disperses throughout the water. It is important to use enough product to treat the entire lake effectively. The natural movement of the water should disperse the entire contents throughout the entire surface within a day or two.

A typical pond dye product will cover a one acre water source up to five feet deep. Therefore, it the water is deeper, an additional gallon may be required. During this time, it is advisable to keep out of the water, until the crystal blue color has spread throughout the entire area.

It’s advised to wear rubber gloves, so the tinting will not get on hands and stain them. This is particularly related to the liquid dye, as the powdered dyes that come in water soluble bags is a bit less messy. Pond dye products for large ponds range in price from $30 to $79 and can be purchased in quarts or gallons. In terms of some concentrated dye, a single quart can treat up to one acre in size. There is no limit to the number of times pond dye can be used in a year.

For the best results, it’s suggested to use the first application at the beginning of the growing season, to catch algae or weeds before they get out of hand. Early management and control is often easier rather than waiting until the problem growth get’s well underway.

Pond Dredging Equipment And Cleaning

by Mark

Is pond dredging the best way to clean and restore your pond?

It’s a simple and natural fact. Large ponds and lakes will fill in over time and in time, that grand old pond that once stayed clean and clear, now has algae or other problems. This process is known as eutrophication. One of the main causes of pond algae blooms is the build up of organic material, muck, and sludge at the bottom. Things like leaves and other stuff fall or get blown into the water and sink and erosion might also play a part.

Being made up of organic elements, most of this sediment is a lot like compost in a garden. We all know that you can get any plant to grow better with good nutrients and anything organic that’s breaking down, in soil or water, will improve the vitality of a plant. Good for vegetables, bad for algae unless you’re using it for bio-fuels.

This fact makes it pretty obvious why a pond owner would want to clean up the bottom of their water-filled basin.

There’s really two ways to do it. The first process would be to use beneficial bacteria, or microbes and enzymes, to help break this sludge down and in effect, eat it away. This is nature’s method of cleaning and it works very well, and quite safely, but it does take a fair amount of time. On average with proper aeration running to help these aerobic bugs do their work, one could reasonably expect 3 to 6 inches, and possibly more muck reduction in a six to eight month season.

The second option, and one that is much quicker although usually more expensive, is to dredge out the pond bottom. Dredging equipment can help make pond restoration a relatively quick task where a great deal of build up can be removed in one to several days of work.

Planning and using the best tools for the job is important, and it could be said that there is not a single solution for every pond. Let’s look at the most common approaches to pond dredging.

Mechanical Dredging Equipment

The mechanical approach to dredging will involve some form of equipment such as a clamshell bucket and crane, a dragline, which uses a bucket with holes in it which is dragged across the bottom, or excavator dredging that uses something like a backhoe device. Because fairly heavy equipment is used in all of these operations, rainy weather can affect work times.

Hydraulic Dredging Pumps

A hydraulic dredge will actually float on the surface of the water and uses a pipe to suck stuff off the pond bottom. It’s similar to a very big muck vac that will remove sediment with great precision. The waste material is routed far away from the pond and released through a discharge pipe.

Of the methods of hydraulic dredging used, the most common are the auger dredge, or some type of cutterhead dredge. These tend to be very efficient in terms of how much sediment they remove and how much manpower is needed to do the work.

Once the muck is removed all the wet sediment should be dewatered or dried out to allow for easier removal from the pond site or it can be used in the area for structuring the landscape surrounding the pond.

So What’s The Benefits And Risks?

The benefits of dredging a pond, as noted above, include a very rapid and efficient reduction of sedimentation build up which can lead to many water quality problems. It’s a very direct way to increase the depth of a pond and a necessary step in most large pond restorations.

Dredging is not without it’s risks however. In many cases the water in the pond will need to be drawndown, or lowered to allow easier access to the bottom. As digging begins there is a good chance that bottom sediment may be disturbed enough to affect the ecology of the pond. Fish breeding and feeding habitat can be altered enough to affect populations negatively. And finally, additional nutrient rich sludge can be released and circulated, which can rapidly lower oxygen levels in the water. To guard against this it’s advised to use a quality aeration system in the pond during excavation as well as after the restoration is complete.

All in all, pond dredging may be the best solution for restoration of a natural setting. It’s not without it’s risks or costs, but it has proven to be the most efficient way to return a pond to a more youthful condition.