When a garden pond freezes completely in frosty weather, it can be dangerous for the ornamental fish in the pond. The relative lack of oxygen in the water is less problematic. More importantly, the ice layer interrupts the vital gas exchange. Particularly the biogases produced during the decomposition of dead plant parts and other organic substances that fume from the sludge at the bottom of the pond are no longer able to escape through a closed ice cover. If the concentration of harmful gases in the water increases, this will, in the worst case scenario, damage the pond inhabitants and pond plants. Luckily there are special pond heaters and anti-ice devices. They prevent a pond from freezing completely and leaving at least one hole in the ice cover even during longer frost phases – as an access point, as a breathing hole and for vital gas exchange.

Depending on the model, a float made of suitable material, for example, ensures that an area remains free of ice. Such anti-ice devices are usually made of styrofoam, plastic or wood. Ventilation slots in the float ensure gas exchange. Other models work on the bottom of the pond and spread heat there. This ensures that deeper water layers do not cool down too much. Up to a certain ambient temperature, such a pond heater can be used to prevent a closed ice blanket from forming. The flatter the pond, the better a model like this will work – even in heavy frost. Some pond heaters or anti-ice devices can regulate the size of the ice-free surface by adjusting the wattage. The higher the electrical power, the more heat the appliance emits and the more efficiently it prevents a layer of ice from forming.
Various anti-ice devices are generally suitable for certain temperature ranges or up to a certain maximum temperature value in the minus range – for example up to -20 degrees Celsius. This additional information can be found in the product specification. It is also important that the device operates silently so that it does not disturb the life rhythm and, where applicable, the winter rest of the pond inhabitants.

Pond heaters and anti-ice devices are available in well-known brands such as SCHEGO and Pontec. At Maxi Zoo, you can buy high-quality anti-ice devices conveniently and cheaply online! The mode of action of the respective model can be found in the product specification – it also states whether the product is suitable for the desired purpose and temperature range. In our range you will find a model that keeps the ice cover of your garden pond open and accommodates the pond inhabitants well over the winter.