Pond heater sizing

[Tesla_HV]

I have a 200-gallon outdoor pond and live in northern Massachusetts. Will one of those 100-watt floating pond heaters be sufficient to keep a hole open in the ice?
Thanks,
-- Monty --

 

[Tesla_HV]

Also, there are a lot of brands available. Any that I should steer clear of?

 

[frloplady]

I have a 200-gallon outdoor pond and live in northern Massachusetts. Will one of those 100-watt floating pond heaters be sufficient to keep a hole open in the ice?
Thanks,
-- Monty --

It might..it might not? That is a very small bit of water to try and keep from freezing. I tried one in a whiskey barrel one year..it was almost frozen solid, but it was above ground.

If you used the heater and a small greenhouse cover made with pvc pipe and heavy plastic http://wernersponds.com/deicer.html gives you an idea of how to make it. It doesn't nee to be real tall, just enough arch so the snow will slide off. That pic shows a greenhouse that was made to float on a larger pond using 2 50 watt bulbs, but gives you the general idea how to build one for over your pond. Make sure it's anchored well as they will blow away otherwise!