Maintenance Recommendations - Kasco VFX Series Owner's Manual

Maintenance Recommendations

** Under No Circumstances should anyone enter the water while
a aerator is operating. ** ** Please keep the original box for
maintenance shipping. **
The following maintenance procedures can be utilized to ensure
many years of quality performance from your Kasco aerator and
reduce the need for more costly repair work.
PROPER INSTALLATION: Proper installation of Kasco
equipment will include a power source with ground fault
interruption (GFI). For aerator models, the C-25 control (120V)
or C-85 (240/208V) included with the unit have built-in ground
fault interruption that is sufficient. Ground fault interrupters are a
safety feature that can also alert you to electrical leaks in the
equipment. It is extremely important to test the GFI upon
installation, each reinstallation, and monthly thereafter to ensure
proper operation. If you have repeat, consistent trips on your
ground fault, the equipment should be disconnected and
removed from the water. The power cord should be inspected
for damage and you should call Kasco Marine at 715262-4488
for further instructions or email Kasco at
returns@kascomarine.com.
OBSERVATION: Operating equipment should be
observed on a regular basis (daily, if possible) for any reduction or
variation in performance. If a change in performance is observed,
the equipment should be disconnected from power and inspected
for any material that may have clogged the system or wrapped
around the shaft of the motor, especially plastic bags and fishing
line. Even though Kasco Aerators and aerators are among the
most clog-resistant on the market, it is impossible to protect
against all items that can clog equipment and still maintain a flow
of water. These materials can be very damaging to the
equipment under continued operation and must be removed as
soon as possible. ALWAYS UNPLUG THE UNIT BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO REMOVE CLOGS.
WINTER STORAGE: In regions where there is significant
freezing in the wintertime, the aerators should be removed from
the water to protect them from the expansion pressure of the ice.
In many areas, aerators will keep some amount of ice open
through the winter.
However, when the water is thrust into the air, it is exposed to the
colder air temperatures longer and can actually make ice thicker
on the pond/lake. Storage over winter is best in a location that is
out of the sun and cool, but above 32
during the offseason, it is important to store them upside down if
F. When storing units
O
they are going to be sitting for long periods of time. Units that sit
upright on a shelf for many months, or even years have a greater
likelihood of seals drying out. Storing upside down will ensure oil
is lubricating the seals and prevent drying.
CLEANING: Aerators should be removed from the water at least
once per year (at the end of the season in cold climates) to clean
the exterior of the system, especially the stainless steel motor
housing (can). The motor housing is the surface that dissipates
heat into the water and any algae, calcium, etc. build-up will
become an insulator that blocks heat transfer. In warmer regions
it is recommended that the motor is removed and cleaned at least
two to three times per year depending on conditions. In most
cases a power washer will be sufficient if the unit and algae are
still wet.
SEAL AND OIL REPLACEMENT: This is a sealed motor
assembly and seals will wear out over time (similar to brake pads
on a car). Replacement of the seals and a change of oil after
three years may add longevity to the operation of the motor,
saving you the cost of more expensive repairs. In warmer
climates where the aerator runs most or all of the year, it is a
good idea to replace seals more regularly than you would need
to in colder climates where the unit is removed from the water for
several months.
ZINC ANODE: A Sacrificial Zinc Anode is supplied on the shaft of
all VFX Model aerators for protection of the equipment from
corrosion and electrolysis. The zinc anode should be updated
(replaced) if reduced to half the original size or if white in color.
Corrosion from electrolysis is more commonly associated with
saltwater or brackish water, but as a matter of precaution, it is
important to periodically check the zinc anode in all installations
(at least every two to three months).
Seal replacement and all other repair services should be
performed by Kasco Marine or a Kasco trained Authorized Repair
Center. Any alterations or changes made to Kasco units by an
unauthorized source will void the warranty. This includes
tampering with the unit, power cord, and/or control box. Please
contact Kasco Marine, Inc. at 715-262-4488 for your nearest
Authorized Repair Center.
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