Dock bubblers are mainly used to prevent ice damage to boathouses, docks, and boats by keeping the ice away. Winter may take a toll on your lake and pond, resulting in severe boat or dock ice damage. Water freezes may move or expand, damaging the dock’s cribs, pilings, or other wooden structures.
If you own a dock, boat, or similar on a lake or pond, you have a few options to consider as winter approaches each year. You can choose to do nothing while hoping for the best, you can put your boat into storage and remove the dock from the water, or, you can also leave the dock and the boat where they are and use a dock de-icing system to protect them. Dock bubbler systems are an inexpensive solution for keeping the ice away and preventing winter ice damage. Here are some tips to help you choose the dock bubbler system that caters to your unique needs.
Location and Size
When purchasing a dock bubbler for sale, the geographical location (and the area’s typical temperatures) and size of the space that must be cleared of ice are essential factors in helping you make an informed choice. The lower the temperatures fall over a specified period, the less the area a single bubbler will be able to clear. Therefore, regions with extreme cold and long winters generally need a bubbler with more horsepower. When you consider the area size that must be cleared, you will discover that having multiple bubblers may be necessary.
Water Type
The temperature will vary among the different types of water or water bodies. For example, the freezing point is lower when more salt is in the water. Therefore, you may need less horsepower or fewer units in brackish or seawater applications than in fresh water. Before buying dock bubbler systems, perform a quick online search to help you determine the average low and high winter temperatures for the specific body of water you want to install.
Water Depth
When the water is deeper, more sub-surface warm water will be available for de-icing the area. To attain maximum performance and ensure successful de-icing efforts. Water must be at least 3 feet deep for vertical installation and slightly shallower for angled operations. Consider installing your dock bubbler systems about 12 to 18 inches deep when dealing with colder climates. In most cases, the bubbler should be at least one foot off the bottom to help prevent clogging caused by debris.
Obstructions
Some objects in the pond or lake, such as dock floats, boat hulls, and pilings, can restrict, obstruct, and even re-route the flow of warm water created by the dock bubbler systems and limit its effectiveness. When an area has more objects, the higher the potential for obstruction. Sometimes, you may be forced to use multiple bubblers to guarantee continuous water movement in the area you want to eliminate ice. You must ensure the units are positioned appropriately and mounted in the right location for maximum efficiency.
Power Source and Type
Most bubblers and de-icers come in either 115V or 230V. Therefore, you should always go for a model with the same voltage as your outlet. Whichever device you select, the electricity used is the same when operated. You should also ensure you get a dock bubbler for sale with a long power cord that will reach your device directly from the outlet without needing an extension cord. This is important because the use of extension cords may cause damage to the unit, void the warranty, or reduce the efficiency of your dock bubbler.
Always take the time to know the laws, rules, and regulations in your area before installing your dock bubbler systems. This will ensure that you announce your bubbler where necessary and protect yourself and those who come into contact with the water bodies.
