The Ice Eater - P500 is a 1/2 horsepower de-icer manufactured by The Power House, Inc., designed to prevent ice formation and melt existing ice by circulating warmer subsurface water to the surface. It is engineered for maximum efficiency and performance in various climates, utilizing an axial flow, shrouded propeller design that also provides protection for the rotating propeller. The unit is shipped complete with suspension lines, ready for immediate installation and use.
Function Description:
The Ice Eater operates on the principle that water expands and becomes lighter when it freezes. It draws warmer water from below the surface and deflects it upwards, creating a continuous circulation of warmer water that prevents new ice from forming and melts existing ice. This process is effective in maintaining open water areas during cold temperatures. The unit can be configured to create either a circular or elongated de-icing pattern depending on how it is suspended. For circular patterns, the unit is hung straight, while an angled suspension creates an elongated pattern.
Important Technical Specifications:
Motor Unit:
- Horsepower: 1/2 HP Single Phase
- Amperage: 6.5 Amps (115V) / 3.25 Amps (230V)
- Rotations per Minute (RPM): 1,650
- Gallons per Minute (GPM): 1,150
- Thrust: 22 pounds
- Cooling: Oil Cooled, Continuous Duty Rated
- Bearings: (2) Long Life Bearings
- Protection: Thermal Overload Protection
- Seal: Fully Utilized Heavy Duty Carbon Ceramic Mechanical Seal
- Housing: Series 300 Austenitic Stainless Housing with Magnesium Bronze End-Bell
Shroud:
- Material: Patented heavy-duty PVC Venturi housing
- Hardware: Series 300 Stainless Steel Hardware
- Ropes: (2) 25' long 3/8" thick hollow braided polypropylene ropes
Power Cable:
- Type: SJTOW UL & CSA Approved Underwater Rated Cable, 3 Wire
- Available Lengths (115V with Quick Disconnect Power Cord): 50', 100', 150'
- Available Lengths (230V with Quick Disconnect Power Cord): 50', 100', 150', 200', 250', 300', 350'
- Gauge: 16/3 gauge for 25', 50', and 100' lengths; 14/3 gauge for 150', 200' and longer
- Features: Potted Quick Disconnect Gauge Cord (for standard lengths)
General:
- Water Depth: Operates in water as shallow as 18" (41cm)
- Breaker Recommendation: 15 Amp Breaker
- Safety Standards: Total Component Listed to meet UL and CSA Standards for Safety in Water
- UL Listing: Water Circulating Pump E481181, Met Listing No. E112360
- Warranty: 3-Year Limited Warranty (best in the industry)
- Origin: Made in the USA
- Shipping: Via UPS & FedEx
Usage Features:
- Installation: The Ice Eater is fully assembled and can be hung from a pier or boat using the provided mooring lines. It should be placed at a depth that yields the best results, typically 2-3 feet. Crucially, it must maintain at least 1 foot of clearance from the bottom to prevent damage and ensure optimal performance.
- Electrical Connection: Requires connection to a properly grounded and GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) or RCD (Residual Current Device) protected circuit. It is essential to ensure the correct voltage (115V or 230V) is available at the unit's motor.
- Extension Cords: If an extension cord is necessary, it must be appropriately sized: #12/3 wire cord for up to 100ft, and #10/3 wire cord for up to 200ft.
- Continuous Duty: Designed and engineered for continuous operation in harsh environments.
- Safety Warnings:
- Never lift or drag the unit by its power cord.
- Do not run the unit out of water; it must always be submerged.
- Keep hands clear of the propeller.
- Never enter the water with the electrical equipment connected and/or in operation.
- Always disconnect the unit from the power source before any servicing, cleaning, or moving.
- Do not remove the end cover plate, as this will void the warranty.
- Any rework or damage to the cord will create a shock hazard and void the warranty.
- Optional Thermostat: Allows automatic operation based on ambient air temperature, reducing energy consumption. The unit will start automatically when the temperature drops below a set point.
- Optional Timer: A 24-hour outdoor-grade plastic timer with 23-1/2 hour maximum on time, featuring "ON" and "OFF" trippers.
- Optional Dock Mount: Provides a secure and adjustable positioning option, allowing the Ice Eater angle to be adjusted in 20-degree increments from horizontal to vertical with full 360-degree positioning. Made of powder-coated steel for corrosion protection.
Maintenance Features:
- Motor Unit: The motor is factory-sealed with a special non-toxic dielectric lubricating fluid and does not require additional lubrication. It should not be opened or repaired by unauthorized personnel, as this voids the warranty.
- Storage: When storing, thoroughly clean the unit and place it propeller side down in a flat, cool place to keep the seals lubricated.
- Cleaning: Routinely inspect and clean the screen and propeller, especially in heavy weed or plant locations. Always unplug or disconnect the unit from the power source before cleaning. Use a stiff, nylon bristle brush. If cleaners are used, flush and rinse thoroughly with fresh water.
- Propeller and Brackets: Inspect the propeller, internal brackets, and shaft for accumulation of weeds, vines, string, chips, or cracks. Damaged parts can be replaced with factory parts.
- Power Cord: Inspect the power cord for breaks, nicks, and abrasion. If the outer jacket is cut deeply enough to expose inner conductors, the cord must be replaced by the manufacturer or an authorized service agent to avoid electrical shock.
- Sacrificial Anode: For units operated in brackish or salt water, a sacrificial anode must be attached to the shaft and inspected periodically for deterioration. Replace the anode when it is approximately half of its original size or if it turns white. Failure to do so can result in metal deterioration, contamination, and may void the warranty.
- Electrolysis Kit: Available for additional corrosion protection in high salinity, high electrical current, and/or warm waters.
- Scheduled Maintenance: For optimum operation, it is suggested that each unit be returned to the factory for regularly scheduled maintenance every four to five years (less for commercial duty usage).
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides tips for common issues such as the unit not starting, starting slowly, or cycling on and off, guiding users to check power sources, connections, propeller freedom, and debris accumulation.
The Power House, Inc. offers a comprehensive warranty and provides contact information for service and repair inquiries, emphasizing that all repairs must be made at the factory or an authorized service station. Customers are encouraged to register their Ice Eater online.
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