Winnipesaukee Forum - View Single Post - De-Icers

jimbob1603 · 09-09-2005, 08:46 AM

Ho,
A linear compressor is dirt-cheap to run. I have a big one (7cfm@6psi), and it only sucks about 100 watts; costing me about $50 to run for the entire season. However, it cost $900 to purchase. So, you need to use it for a couple years to recoup the initial investment. Unlike a reciprocating compressor, a linear compressor is made to run 24/7 and has no bearings to wear out. Mine is on a thermostat, so its only running when temp drops below 35.

$900 might initially sound expensive. But, remember that circulators cost $300 to $500; and cost hundreds of dollars to run each season.

It does take more effort to initially install the bubbler pipe/hose, but its all part of the fun/challenge. I leave mine in all year, and just disconnect the compressor in the spring.

An unexpected side effect: the bubbles seem to attract fish.

I agree that ice-out is the most trecherous time. An ice floe can crush everything in its path; the scene can get quite ugly. Fortunately, I'm in a cove and don't have to worry about that danger.

J

09-09-2005, 08:46 AM	#13
jimbob1603 Senior Member Join Date: May 2004 Posts: 71 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Bubble, Bubble, Toil & Trouble Ho, A linear compressor is dirt-cheap to run. I have a big one (7cfm@6psi), and it only sucks about 100 watts; costing me about $50 to run for the entire season. However, it cost $900 to purchase. So, you need to use it for a couple years to recoup the initial investment. Unlike a reciprocating compressor, a linear compressor is made to run 24/7 and has no bearings to wear out. Mine is on a thermostat, so its only running when temp drops below 35. $900 might initially sound expensive. But, remember that circulators cost $300 to $500; and cost hundreds of dollars to run each season. It does take more effort to initially install the bubbler pipe/hose, but its all part of the fun/challenge. I leave mine in all year, and just disconnect the compressor in the spring. An unexpected side effect: the bubbles seem to attract fish. I agree that ice-out is the most trecherous time. An ice floe can crush everything in its path; the scene can get quite ugly. Fortunately, I'm in a cove and don't have to worry about that danger. J Last edited by jimbob1603; 09-12-2005 at 04:53 PM.