Aeration is the key to a healthy and attractive pond. Your pond environment receives essential oxygen from the atmosphere at the surface of the pond where the air and water come in contact with each other, as well as from the photosynthesis of aquatic plants beneath the water surface. These conditions are both affected by the weather, wind energy that causes wave action and sunlight. Since weather is unpredictable, that can create stagnant water and that means low oxygen levels. The physical energy of water movement helps the water and air exchange gases and pond forms layers of different temperatures. Good environmental conditions in the pond is what is needed for fish and other organisms to thrive..

  Aeration dramatically improves the ponds environmental conditions and helps keep good stable water quality. Beneficial bacteria reduces pond muck and unwanted nutrients, and that reduces unwanted algae and odors. In the winter, snow and ice is not allowed to seal the pond surface and restrict the oxygen and gas transfer. This type of aeration allows your fish to thrive in a healthy environment and the fish population experiences improved growth rates and vitality.

Air Diffuser vs. Fountains - What method is best?

Both have solid advantages. Diffused aeration is the best way to aerate ponds deeper than 6 Ft. The sub-surface air diffuser lays on the bottom of the pond. This method achieves total pond aeration from the top to bottom no matter of the depth, although these units are not as effective in shallow water. Also more air diffusers are needed on the ponds bottom to properly aerate it.

Fountains are usually the first choice when a more decorative aerator is wanted. Aerating fountains splash the surface of the pond and help reduce  surface algae and duckweed, but can't aerate ponds deeper than 6 feet.  Fountains aerate better in ponds 6' or less, but always make a beautiful water display!