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Pond ice prevention

madpenguinmadpenguin Posts: 2,543
in Problem solving

I am looking to get something to float on the pond to stop ice forming.I have seen the polystyrene igloos but don't know what they are rightly called,anyone?

Also if you already have one does it work or what other methods do you use?

“Every day is ordinary, until it isn't.” - Bernard Cornwell-Death of Kings

Posts

  • madpenguinmadpenguin Posts: 2,543

    I am thinking the plastic ball may be the cheapest option image.

    Just wondering what others did.

     

    “Every day is ordinary, until it isn't.” - Bernard Cornwell-Death of Kings
  • DovefromaboveDovefromabove Posts: 88,140

    I use a plastic football - it works image


    Gardening in Central Norfolk on improved gritty moraine over chalk ... free-draining.





  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117

    Polystyrene works for me. I use two pieces that had been round a spherical item. Joined them together (with the curved 'space' downwards towards the pond surface) and tied it to a timber edge with string. Stops it disappearing down the road on a windy day. image

    The air gap is the best bit about it image

    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • ButtercupdaysButtercupdays Posts: 4,546

    I have ducksimage.

    If the ice gets really thick sometimes have to chuck the goose in tooimage

  • PosyPosy Posts: 3,601

    Plastic ball works for us but we have goldfish so if it gets really cold we turn on a simple pond heater. The fish gather round it like you and me round the fire!

  • ClaringtonClarington Posts: 4,949

    I use a football (much to the dogs confusion). However I have found my floating island (plants with polystyrene floats so they bumble around the pond depending on where the wind takes them) seem to do a good job of creating enough ripples in the pond to stop it freezing... on the rare days it's been cold enough, 

  • madpenguinmadpenguin Posts: 2,543

    I have been looking at those floating plant islands so they may do the job on their own.

    My 'pond' at the moment is just a great big muddy hole ready for the construction,so I am just thinking ahead to possible icy days ahead when I actually do have a pond!

    “Every day is ordinary, until it isn't.” - Bernard Cornwell-Death of Kings
  • Mrs. Little BushMrs. Little Bush Posts: 15

    I put the fountain on the marginal shelf and just let it bubble away, gently.

    I have 5 big fish so it keeps the water aerated and if the surface freezes there is always a clear bit around the pump. It has worked for the past 15 years.

    This means that the pump is still sending water through the filter as well.

    Good luck

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