Breaking the Ice: Advantages of De-Icers

Ontario, with its scenic lakes and waterways, transforms into a winter wonderland each year. However, the beauty of winter comes with the challenge of dealing with ice formation. When water transforms into ice, it expands and therefore takes up more space. This, along with raising and lowering water levels and shifting, can be damaging to docks, structures, shorelines, and the aquatic ecosystems under the ice. Enter the ice eater, also known as the de-icer - a solution that brings many benefits to its users. 

Ice eaters generally consist of a submersible electric 110V AC motor and propeller with a shield and ropes or other apparatus. First, you install it in the water, either by hanging it from a dock or suspending it from a floatation device. Once positioned, the motor will drive the propeller generating a continuous flow of water, bringing the warmer water from below the surface to the top, and that moving water melts the ice in a very efficient manner. 

The science behind ice formation and the effectiveness of ice eaters involves principles of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics. None of that is incredibly exciting, but what we do know is that ice eaters are a huge part of minimizing damage to our docks and structures each spring. Why are they beneficial?

Prevents Damage: The primary purpose of ice eaters is to prevent or remove the formation of ice around boats, docks, bridge supports, and other structures in/around the water by keeping the surface water moving. When water turns to ice, it expands creating pressure and movement which can lead to significant damage. Once the spring melt starts, melting snow and rain can rapidly raise the water level in your body of water. This hydraulic lift of the ice can destroy docks, lift out pilings and anchors, twist metal, shift concrete, and break wood with ease.

Facilitates Access: Ice eaters create open water areas ensuring boat owners and marinas can access the water during the colder months. It can also speed up more and larger open water sections once spring thaw begins.

Prevents Ice Jams: In rivers or areas with flowing water, ice buildup can lead to blockages, or “ice jams” which can cause flooding to nearby areas. Having an ice eater here acts as a preventative by breaking the surface tension, preventing ice formation in the first place, and ensuring the unobstructed flow of water.

Improves Water Quality and Preserves Aquatic Ecosystems: Ice eaters are vital for sustaining aquatic ecosystems in the winter. They can prevent stagnant patches under the ice by promoting continuous water movement, reducing the risk of debris and pollutants, and facilitating gas exchange and oxygenation. This allows the aquatic ecosystems to continue to thrive during the colder months.

Reduces Shoreline Damage: While ice eaters are not designed specifically to prevent shoreline erosion, they can contribute indirectly by preventing the pressure that comes from ice forming and improving water circulation which is beneficial in preventing sedimentation and damage to the vegetation and soil on shorelines. Ice forming can still be damaging to your shoreline even if you have a retaining wall or pier.

Drawbacks and cautions. 

1. They are not inexpensive to buy and can be several hundred or even a thousand or more. That pales in comparison to the amount of money they can save over the years in expensive dock and shore damage.
2. They require a fair amount of energy to operate. Because of that, make sure you have a good power source close by and if you need an extension cord to run it, ensure that it is a heavy gauge or wire and outdoor/moisture-approved.
3. For the safety of others and your liability, make sure there are clear "open water" signs posted on your property around the de-icer open area and ideally, a flashing or light on it to warn nighttime ice travelers.
4. If you do not install your de-cere before the ice forms, you will need to carefully cut a hole in the ice with a auger or chain saw to make a hole large enough to slip it down through.
5. Be carful not to have the unit too close to the bottom so as to not suck up twigs, etc to jam up the propeller.

Overall, ice eaters are a great tool for waterfront home owner, cottages, and marinas alike!