At what temperature should the de-icer turn on?
Our Thermo-Pond units are thermostatically controlled to keep the average water temperature just above freezing. They feature internal thermostats and will turn on and off as necessary to keep the pond from freezing over.
Is there a minimum required pond depth for the Thermo-Pond 3.0?
The pond needs to be at least 18” deep. The Thermo-Pond 3.0 is designed to keep a 12” hole in the ice directly around the Thermo-Pond only.
How can this use only 100 watts?
The Thermo-Pond 3.0 Floating Pond De-Icer is an energy efficient way to allow gas exchange for your fish while wintering. That is why it is designed to only keep a 12 inch hole in the ice. Essentially, it functions as a chimney for oxygen exchange in larger ponds.
Will my fish be safe with this deicer in the pond?
Your fish are quite safe, even when they do come in contact with the heating element of the deicer. The heating element will never get hot to the touch as long as it is submerged in water. You can actually reach down into the water and put your finger on the heating element and it will not burn you.
Please rest assured that your fish are quite safe when the Thermo-Pond Perfect Climate deicer is in the water. In the middle of winter when it gets really cold you’ll find your fish huddling around the deicer to keep warm, but the deicer will never harm them.
When my pond de-icer runs, foam forms on top of the water. Is this normal?
Yes, the foam buildup is harmless and completely normal for this product. The difference in temperature between the water inside the ring and the water outside the ring creates foam, which is why there is no foam buildup when the deicer is off.
How can I test my pond de-icer outside of a pond?
You can test the Thermo-Pond by placing it in the freezer for about an hour. Then remove the Thermo-Pond and plug it directly into an outlet. Hold onto the inside of the ring of the bottom half of the Thermo-Pond. It will begin to warm within about 5 minutes and will shut off automatically shortly after.
How long is the cord?
The cord is 12 feet long.
Can I use an extension cord with this product?
MET requires that all manufacturers put the extension cord statement “Do not use with extension cord” on every item that is MET listed by UL 499 standards. This is because they cannot test every extension cord on the market in conjunction with our products for safety. Also, MET suggests that an extension cord is not recommended as a permanent fixture and should only be a temporary solution when using any electrical product.
For more information on MET safety testing, please visit their website at www.metlabs.com.
How long can a heated product be plugged in?
MET Safety Laboratories suggests unplugging the product if you leave your home on an extended vacation, as they do with any electrical appliance. Otherwise, it is designed for 24/7 operation and you can leave it plugged in all day. This item has been certified by MET labs to adhere to strict electrical safety standards. For more information, please visit www.metlabs.com.
Is there an off/on switch?
There is not an off/on switch. It is always on when plugged in.
