Stratification is a common but serious issue in ponds and lakes. During warmer months, water naturally separates into layers. Warm water remains at the surface while cooler, denser water settles at the bottom. Over time, this separation limits oxygen movement between layers. The deeper zones become oxygen-depleted, organic matter accumulates, and water quality begins to decline.
Without proper circulation, stagnant areas develop. Nutrients such as phosphorus build up in bottom sediments, creating ideal conditions for algae growth. Odors may form, water clarity decreases, and the overall aquatic ecosystem becomes stressed.
IGS Water’s Pond Aeration System (Destratification System) is specifically engineered to reverse these conditions through controlled artificial destratification.
Understanding Artificial Destratification
Artificial destratification works by increasing water circulation between the upper and lower layers of a pond. Instead of allowing warm and cool water to remain separated, the system continuously mixes the water column. This promotes consistent oxygen distribution and reduces the environmental conditions that lead to algae blooms and poor water quality.
The goal is not simply to add air to the surface, but to restore balance throughout the entire body of water.
How the IGS Water Pond Aeration System Works
The IGS Water system achieves aeration by recirculating water through a Water Conditioner and Aerator.
1. Strategic Water Intake
A specially designed intake manifold draws water from various areas of the lake, particularly stagnant zones where little to no movement occurs. The suction port is installed as low as possible in the water column to access oxygen-depleted layers while ensuring it does not clog with algae or sediment.
By targeting deeper zones, the system directly addresses the areas most affected by stratification.
2. Conditioning and Turbulence
Once drawn into the system, water passes through the conditioner. Inside, areas of low and high pressure create controlled turbulence. This turbulence increases the water-to-air contact ratio, allowing for more effective oxygen integration.
This process enhances the interaction between water, air, and dissolved minerals.
3. Aeration and Oxygenation
Water then moves into the aerator chamber, where it is mixed with air. Oxygen levels rise as the air is dispersed into the water stream. Subtle changes occur in mineral and nutrient composition, and the increased oxygen can influence the electrical charge of minerals, contributing to improved water characteristics.
The result is softer, wetter, more aerated water that supports healthier biological activity.
4. Thermal Flow and Circulation
As air bubbles rise to the surface, they create vertical movement within the pond. This rising motion promotes thermal flow, circulating oxygen-rich cooler water downward while warmer water rises upward.
Over time, this continuous movement eliminates thermal layering and establishes consistent circulation throughout the entire water column.
The Benefits of Destratification
By restoring full-depth circulation, the Pond Aeration System delivers measurable improvements in water quality and ecosystem health.
Reduced Algae Growth
Increased circulation limits stagnant zones and reduces the nutrient conditions that encourage excessive algae blooms.
Lower Sediment Phosphorus Load
Oxygenated bottom layers help manage nutrient release from sediments, supporting long-term water stability.
Improved Oxygen Distribution
Oxygen is no longer confined to surface layers. Deeper zones receive adequate oxygen, supporting beneficial bacteria and aquatic life.
Healthier Aquatic Ecosystem
Balanced circulation creates more stable conditions for fish, plants, and microorganisms, reducing stress on the overall system.
Improved Water Clarity and Odor Control
With better oxygenation and circulation, organic buildup is reduced and water clarity improves over time.
Why Circulation Matters
Many pond issues begin below the surface. Surface aeration alone cannot correct deep-water oxygen depletion caused by stratification. Artificial destratification ensures that the entire water body functions as a single, balanced system rather than isolated layers.
By continuously recirculating and conditioning water, IGS Water’s Pond Aeration System helps transform stagnant, layered ponds into healthier and more resilient aquatic environments.
If your pond or lake is experiencing algae growth, poor circulation, or declining water quality, destratification may be the solution.
Discover the benefits of destratification with IGS Water’s Pond Aeration System.
