The HQUA-PAS20 is a pond aeration system designed to improve water quality and support aquatic life. It consists of a rocking piston compressor, an airflow diffuser, and an airline, all working together to introduce oxygen into the pond water.
Function Description
The primary function of the HQUA-PAS20 is to aerate pond water, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy aquatic environment. Aeration helps prevent fish kills by circulating oxygen-rich water and reducing the accumulation of harmful gases and by-products, especially in deep water with low oxygen levels. The system is designed for continuous operation, particularly during hot summer months when oxygen depletion is a common problem. It can also be operated in winter, though special precautions are needed for ice-covered ponds.
Important Technical Specifications
The HQUA-PAS20 system includes several key components with specific technical details:
HQUA-PAS20RPC Rocking Piston Compressor:
- Type: High efficiency, continuous-duty rocking piston compressor.
- Mounts: Rubber compressor mounts are used to reduce noise and vibration, ensuring silent operation.
- Electrical Cord: Features a 4.5 ft electrical cord with a 3-pin plug.
- Airflow Management: Includes an airflow manifold to simplify airflow management to individual diffusers, along with airflow valves for precise control.
- Air Filter: Equipped with an air filter to maximize the life of the compressor.
- Safety: A pressure relief valve safeguards the system from back pressure.
- Capacitor: Contains a capacitor as part of the compressor; users are advised not to operate its electrical connection.
- Power: 1/2 HP.
- Amps: 4.8 Amps (at 110V). Note that amperage may vary with water depth due to pressure.
- Volts: 110V.
- Max CFM: 4.6.
- Power Cord Length: 5 ft.
HQUA-PAS20AD Airflow Diffuser:
- Diffuser Sticks: Features EPDM non-stick 10” membrane diffuser sticks, designed for synergy with air stones and virtually maintenance-free operation.
- Connectors: Utilizes a stainless steel connector for the airline and the diffuser plate.
- Base: Comes with a 12" square stainless steel base for diffuser stability.
HQUA-PAS20AL Airline:
- Material: 3/8" 100 ft lead-free airline made of durable PVC composite.
- Features: Resistant to fish hooks and kink-free.
- Connection: Used to connect the compressor to the diffuser, requiring connector kits for proper installation.
Overall System Capacity:
- Max Pond Size: 3 Acres.
- Max Depth: 50 ft.
Usage Features
The HQUA-PAS20 is designed for straightforward installation and operation, with clear guidelines for different seasons.
Installation:
- Compressor Placement: The compressor should be placed in a ventilated, cool, and dry location, sheltered from rain, sunshine, and excessive dust.
- Air Filter Installation: The air filter screws into the compressor near the pressure relief valve. Hand tightening is sufficient, with Teflon tape recommended if needed.
- Trenching: A trench at least 8 inches deep should be dug from the compressor's shelter to the pond's edge to protect the airline. Utility lines should be marked before digging. An extended airline and connector kit may be needed for longer distances.
- Airline Connection to Manifold: A connector kit (HQUA-PAS20CK01) is screwed onto the airflow manifold using a 7/8" wrench, with Teflon tape if necessary.
- Airline Attachment: A hose clamp (HQUA-PAS20HC) is slid onto the airline (HQUA-PAS20AL), which is then inserted into the connector kit. The hose clamp is secured with a Phillips screwdriver.
- Backfilling: The airline trench is backfilled to temporarily keep the airline in place until installation is complete.
- Airline Connection to Diffuser Base: Another hose clamp is slid onto the other end of the airline and inserted into the connector kit on the stainless steel base. The hose clamp is secured with a Phillips screwdriver.
- Diffuser Plate Assembly: The diffuser plate (HQUA-PAS20DP) is screwed onto the stainless steel base. Hand tightening is sufficient, with Teflon tape recommended if needed.
- Diffuser Deployment: Diffusers are installed from a boat or raft. One person guides the airline from shore while another releases the diffuser into the water at the desired pond location. This process is repeated for all diffusers.
- Final Steps: Backfill airline trenches completely and level with a rake. Ensure diffusers are not tangled by nets or fish lines and are separated for equal water space to optimize performance.
Initial Start-up Procedure (to prevent fish-kill):
- Day 1: Run system for 30 minutes; turn off for remainder of day.
- Day 2: Run system for 1 hour; turn off for remainder of day.
- Day 3: Run system for 2 hours; turn off for remainder of day.
- Day 4: Run system for 4 hours; turn off for remainder of day.
- Day 5: Run system for 8 hours; turn off for remainder of day.
- Day 6: Run system for 16 hours; turn off for remainder of day.
- Day 7: Begin running system 24 hours/day, 7 days/week.
Seasonal Operation:
- Summer Operation: The system should run continuously throughout the summer for optimum aeration benefits and to reduce the risk of fish kills in hot months.
- Winter Operation: Operating in freezing conditions will create open water areas, with thinner ice around diffusers. HQUA strongly recommends posting "Danger - Thin Ice" signs. If the system is turned off for winter, unplug it.
Maintenance Features
The HQUA-PAS20 is designed for low-maintenance, but regular checks are essential for optimal performance and longevity.
General Maintenance Guidelines:
- Keep the compressor in a cool, dry, and ventilated area.
- Always unplug the system before performing any maintenance or troubleshooting.
- If the cord is damaged, or if the compressor, power control, fan, or other electrical components produce unusual noises or odors, unplug the system and contact a qualified electrician.
- Local environmental conditions may necessitate more frequent maintenance.
Specific Maintenance Tasks:
- Air Filter (HQUA-AF11): Clean or replace every 3-6 months. Important: Do not wet the filter.
- Pressure Relief Valve: Check regularly to ensure air is not escaping from the valve. Replace if needed.
- Membrane Sticks: Inspect and/or clean the membrane diffuser sticks every 24-36 months.
Winterizing (if turning off system):
- Disconnect the compressor and the airline.
- Cover airline ends with caps or cloth to prevent debris entry.
- If operating during winter and condensation causes airlines to freeze, use 1 cup of isopropyl alcohol in the airline running to each diffuser plate and turn on the compressor to push through and clear any ice blockage.
Troubleshooting:
The manual provides a detailed troubleshooting guide for common issues:
After-Sales Service:
For any support or questions, users can contact the HQUA Technical Support team via email at hqua_qin@163.com.
To Next Page
General
