Aquascape ASA Solar Dam Aerator, 1/2 hp
Stock water that needs to stay drinkable
Large ornamental ponds beyond a pond pump
Recreation ponds needing extra circulation
Aquascape · Dam and Lake Aeration
The owner's insights on the ASA Solar Dam Aerator
Most dams worth aerating are nowhere near a power point, which is exactly the problem this solves. A 24V system running off panels and batteries removes the trenching and the electrician that would otherwise cost more than the aerator.
Read the inclusions carefully before you budget. Solar panels, mounting brackets and batteries are not included. ASA recommend a minimum of 600W of panels and two 12V 100Ah batteries, which is a meaningful additional cost on top of the kit price.
The compressor, the two-way manifold, the controller and the cables all arrive in a lockable cabinet measuring 48cm wide by 30cm deep, 62cm at the back and 50cm at the front. It is designed to sit exposed on a bank.
Battery capacity is what determines whether it runs overnight. Panels alone give you daytime aeration only, which is better than nothing, though the biological benefit is greatest when it runs continuously through a warm night.
Why bottom aeration, not a surface fountain
Still water separates into layers. Only a diffuser sitting on the floor can turn the whole column over, which is what actually fixes a dam.
- 1Still water separates into layersWarm oxygenated water sits on top. Cold, oxygen-starved water sits below it. Nothing mixes, so the bottom goes anaerobic.
- 2That bottom layer is the problemIt is where the smell comes from, where nutrients build up, and why the whole dam blooms green when the weather turns.
- 3Diffusers sit on the floorA compressor on the bank pushes air down a weighted hose to diffusers resting on the bottom.
- 4Rising bubbles turn the column overThe bubbles drag cold bottom water up to the surface where it picks up oxygen. A surface fountain cannot do this, because it only ever touches the top.
Why you'll love the ASA Solar Dam Aerator
No mains power needed
The reason most dams never get aerated. This removes the trenching and the electrician.
Arrives in a lockable cabinet
Compressor, manifold, controller and cables, ready to sit exposed on a bank.
Runs overnight with batteries
Enough storage and it keeps working through the warm nights when it matters most.
Same bottom-up principle
Diffusers on the floor turning the whole column over, not a decorative surface spray.
Better for stock and fish
Dissolved oxygen up, anaerobic smell gone.
Serviceable
Rebuild kits every 18 to 24 months, same as the mains units.
Why you should consider an Aquascape water feature
Aquascape originated the pondless format and holds the Pondless® trademark. The Australian arm operates from Queensland with a certified installer network behind it. Order through My Acre and we will beat any genuine like-for-like price you find elsewhere. If a warranty question ever comes up, you are calling us directly, not an overseas call centre.
Tell us the space before you order
Send us the dimensions and a photo. We will size it properly, tell you what the rock and excavation will really cost, and say so if a different kit suits you better.
Call todayASA Solar Dam Aerator specifications
| Type | Bottom-diffused dam aeration, 24V solar |
|---|---|
| Compressor | 1/2 hp, 24V DC |
| Manifold | Two-way with individual flow control |
| Diffusers | None, one or two single diffusers by configuration |
| Hose | 30m weighted hose per diffuser |
| Cabinet | Lockable, 48cm W x 30cm D x 62cm H rear, 50cm H front |
| Controller | Included, with cables |
| NOT included | Solar panels, mounting brackets and batteries |
| Recommended solar | Minimum 600W of panels |
| Recommended batteries | Two 12V 100Ah |
| SKU | HC280D-CAB, HC280D-CAB-1Set, HC280D-CAB-2Set |
What is included and what you supply
The compressor, cabinet, manifold and controller. Panels, brackets and batteries are NOT included and are a substantial additional cost.
In the box:
- 1/2 hp 24V DC compressor in a lockable cabinet
- Two-way manifold with individual flow control
- Controller and cables
- Diffusers on stainless steel bases, to the configuration selected
- 30m weighted hose per diffuser
- Installation documentation
You supply:
- Solar panels, minimum 600W recommended
- Mounting brackets for the panels
- Two 12V 100Ah batteries recommended
- A level pad for the cabinet
- A way to place the diffusers on the floor, usually a small boat
Frequently asked questions
Are the solar panels included?
No. Panels, mounting brackets and batteries are all separate. They are a substantial additional cost. ASA recommend a minimum of 600W of panels and two 12V 100Ah batteries. Budget for those before you order.
Will it run overnight?
Only with enough battery capacity. Panels alone give you daytime aeration, which still helps. The biological benefit is greatest when it runs through a warm night, so batteries are worth the money.
How do I size it?
By surface area and depth together, not area alone. A deep dam stratifies harder than a shallow one of the same size. Call us with both numbers before you order, because getting this wrong is expensive.
How big is the cabinet?
48cm wide, 30cm deep, 62cm high at the back and 50cm high at the front. It is built to sit exposed, so it needs a level, compacted pad rather than a shed.
Is it safe for stock and fish?
Yes, and it usually improves both conditions. Aerated water holds more dissolved oxygen, which fish need. Stock water that is turning over does not develop the anaerobic smell that puts animals off drinking.
How loud is the compressor?
A rocking piston compressor makes a steady mechanical hum. The cabinet versions damp it considerably. Site it away from the house if you have the choice.
What servicing does it need?
A rebuild kit every 18 to 24 months keeps a rocking piston compressor at full output. They are inexpensive and we stock them. Skipping them is how compressors die early.
Can I add panels later?
Yes. Many people start with a smaller array and expand it. Wire for the final capacity from the start so you are not redoing the run.
Compare with similar
Aquascape ASA Solar Dam Aerator, 1/2 hp
A 24V solar system for dams with no mains power anywhere near them.
Best for remote dams, which is most of them
From $2,799
Aquascape ASA Dam Aerator, 1/4 hp
The smaller mains system, one or two diffusers, with or without a cabinet.
Best for a farm dam or a large ornamental pond that goes green in summer
From $1,199
Aquascape ASA Dam & Lake Aerator, 3/4 hp
The larger mains system, up to four double diffusers on one compressor.
Best for large dams and small lakes where one diffuser will not cover it
From $1,799
Get the ASA Solar Dam Aerator right first time
Your price is beaten against any genuine like-for-like offer. We can organise a certified builder, work with your own landscaper, or set you up to do it yourself.
Speak to the team