Surprisingly, these varied symptoms have a common cause: lack
of dissolved oxygen in the water body. Here's why . . .
Taste and Odor Problems
The most common symptom of an unhealthy lake or reservoir, taste and odor problems can be the result of algae in
the water.
Algae Blooms
A wide variety of algae are responsible for taste and odor complaints. Some types, like blue-green algae, are dangerously
toxic. Algae growth can be due to excessive nutrient availability, lack of water movement or internal nutrient recycling
due to a lack of oxygen in the bottom water.
Manganese, Iron or other Elements
In a healthy lake, manganese and other minerals are limited to the bottom sediment. When there is a lack of oxygen in
the water above the sediment, the element is chemically reduced to a soluable form and enters the water column. Removing
manganese in the treatment plant is normally done with hazardous, costly chemicals. If not adequately removed in the treatment
process, it can pose major problems to consumers when in comes in contact with chlorine -- turning clothes in washing
machines and water in swimming pools brown. Many of these issues can be addresed by maintaining adequate oxygen
levels in the reservoir. In addition, filter runs are increased, less treated water is wasted during flushing and less sludge
is created.
Wide pH Variations
Fluctuating pH levels are the by-product of algae growth cycles. Reducing or eliminating these problematic plants effectively
minimizes pH and other chemical variations in the treatment plant, saving the time and expense of constant monitoring and
adjustment.
Periodic Fish Kills
Like many of the symptoms of an unhealthy lake, widespread fish deaths can result directly from lack of dissolved
oxygen in the water, or from exposure and consumption of toxic algae.
Each of these symptoms of insufficient oxygen can be eliminated or significantly reduced
through use of our aeration technologies. Our engineers will help determine which systems will best meet the needs and goals of your water
resource.
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