Airmax SW20 Shallow Water Series Aeration System

See Video Instructions of the Airmax Aeration System Installation Online

• See Video Instructions of the Airmax Aeration System Installation Online

Important Safety Instructions

• Read all operating instructions carefully.
• To reduce the risk of electric shock, connect only to a properly grounded, grounding type receptacle. If in doubt, have the outlet checked by a qualified electrician.
• This unit is to be used in a circuit protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
• Disconnect unit from power source before handling or conducting maintenance.
• Repair or exchange of cable/power cord must be carried through by the supplier/ manufacturer.
• This unit has not been investigated for use in swimming pool areas.
• Airmax is not responsible for equipment damage or failure, losses, injury or death resulting from failure to follow safety precautions, misuse or abuse of equipment.

CAUTION

• Never connect to an extension cord, which can result in equipment failure.
• Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord.
• Do not place the cabinet where people may step on the power cord.
• Never override or “cheat” electrical or mechanical interlock devices.
• Never attempt any maintenance function that is not specified in the user manual.
• Never operate the system if unusual noises or odors are detected. Disconnect the power cord from the outlet and call for service.
• This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have  given supervision or instruction concerning the use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
• Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
• The appliance is to be supplied through a residual current device (RCD) having a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30 mA.

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

• This product must be grounded. In the event of an electrical short circuit, grounding reduces the risk of electric shock by providing an escape wire for the electric current.
• This product is equipped with a cord having a grounding wire with an appropriate grounding plug.
• The plug must be plugged into an outlet that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.

WARNING

• Improper installation of the grounding plug increases risk of electric shock.

• When repair or replacement of the cord or plug is required, do not connect the grounding wire to either flat blade terminal. The wire with insulation having an outer surface that is
  green with or without yellow stripes is the grounding wire.

• Check with a qualified electrician or serviceman when the grounding instructions are not completely understood, or when in doubt as to whether the product is properly grounded.

• Do not modify the plug provided; if it does not fit the outlet, have the proper outlet installed by a qualified technician.

For 120 VAC products:

• This product is for use on a nominal 120v circuit, and has a grounding plug similar to the plug illustrated in sketch A in Figure below. A temporary adapter similar to the adapter illustrated in sketches B and C may be used to connect this plug to a 2-pole receptacle as shown in sketch B when a properly grounded outlet is not available.
• The temporary adapter shall be used only until a properly grounded outlet (sketch A) is installed by a qualified electrician. The green colored rigid ear, lug, or similar part extending from the adapter must be connected to a permanent ground such as a properly grounded outlet box cover. Whenever the adapter is used, it must be held in place by a metal screw.

For 230 VAC products:

• This product is for use on a circuit having a nominal rating more than 120v and is factory-equipped with a specific electric cord and plug for connection to a proper electric circuit.
• Only connect the product to an outlet having the same configuration as the plug.
• Do not use an adapter with this product.
• When the product must be reconnected for use on a different type of electric circuit, the reconnection shall be made by qualified service personnel

System Components

Airmax Composite Cabinet

1. Enhanced Cooling System tunnels air flow evenly through the cabinet with a high flow cooling fan
2. Composite cabinet with removable top protects components while providing easy access
3. Elevated base protects against damaging flood water
4. Pre-wired electrical box simplifies electrical connections for easy setup
5. Dual Air Filters – High density cabinet intake pre-filter and compressor air filter maximize the life of the system
6. Cabinet Security Bolt Kit protects your investment from unwanted guests

Cabinet Size : 23”L x 17”W x 15”H

SilentAir™ LR Series Linear Diaphragm Compressor

1. High efficiency, linear diaphragm compressor
2. Air Filter maximizes the life of the compressor
3. Rubber compressor mounts reduce noise and vibration for silent operation
4. Airflow manifold simplifies airflow management to individual diffusers
5. Heat-resistant 3⁄8” flex tube protects against high temperatures of the compressor
6. Airline quick disconnects for easy system removal and storage

Note: These systems are designed for ponds up to 6’ deep. Operating a shallow water system at depths greater than 6’ will void warranty and cause premature failures

ProAir® 2 Weighted Diffuser

1. PTFE non-stick 6” membrane diffuser sticks provides the synergy of air stones while being virtually maintenance-free
2. Check valve prevents back pressure to compressor
3. Weighted design keeps diffuser submerged while maintaining an upright position during installation

Diffuser Size: 14.75”L x 8”W x 3.75”H

EasySet™ Airline

• Self-Weighted Airline: 3/8” 100’ Roll (#510118), 5/8” 100’ Roll (#510119): Lead-free weighted airline is made of durable PVC composite. Fish hook resistant and kink-free. Use from pond’s edge to diffuser.
• Direct Burial Airline: 5/8” 100’ Roll (#510120) Flexible, yet kink-free. Bury from cabinet and compressor to pond’s edge when placing the cabinet and compressor away from the pond. 1. System Components
  •  Depending on the type of installation, additional connector kits may be required. See section 6 for connector kits.

System Installation

Tech Specs:| Running Amps| Volts| Max CFM| Power Cord| Max Pond Size| Max Depth| # Diffusers
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
SW20| .43| 115v| 2.5| 6′| ¼ Acre| 6′| 2
SW40| .87| 115v| 4.9| 6′| ½ Acre| 6′| 4

Tools Required:

• Placement rope

• Utility razor knife

• Level

• Boat/Raft/Swimsuit

• Small stone or gravel

• Shovel

• Rake

• Flathead screwdriver

• Coast Guard-approved life jacket

• See Video Instructions of the Airmax Aeration System installation online

STEP ONE: Select a Location for the Aeration Cabinet

• Locate cabinet on a solid surface with adequate strength for the weight of the unit.
• Locate cabinet away from irrigation sprinklers.
• Cabinet must always remain above the high water mark.

Attention: For airline runs longer than 100’, connector kits are required (sold separately). See Replacement Parts (Page 10).

• If a power source is available near the pond’s shore, locate the cabinet at the pond’s edge for quicker installation.
• If a power source is not available near the pond’s shore or you would prefer to install the cabinet in another location, install Direct Burial Airline(s) (sold separately) from the cabinet’s location to the pond’s edge.

STEP TWO: Prepare the Ground Surface and Place the Cabinet

1. Place the cabinet on the ground in the selected location and mark an area 6” wider than the base of the cabinet on all sides.
2. Move the cabinet and remove the sod from the area, filling in with small stone or gravel. This allows for a firm base for the cabinet and for drainage. Open the aeration cabinet by unscrewing the 4 lobed thumb screws. Gently lift the cabinet lid and lay on its side next to the base.
3. Place the cabinet onto the stone base, and use your level to make sure the cabinet is sitting secure and level.

For units purchased with the optional Junction Box, scan for installation procedures

STEP THREE: Excavate Trench and Place Airline(s)

1. Using your shovel, dig a trench from the cabinet to the pond’s edge. This trench should be a minimum depth of 8” to protect the airline. We recommend having utility lines marked before you begin digging.
2. Place airline into the trench from the aeration cabinet to the pond’s edge.

• Option A : (when distance between cabinet and shore is less than 5’)
  Use EasySet weighted airline. There must be a separate run of airline for each diffuser that will be installed. Leave remaining airline coiled at the pond’s edge.

• Option B: (when distance between cabinet and shore is more than 5’)
  Use Direct Burial airline. There must be a separate run of airline for each diffuser that will be installed. Join multiple sections of direct burial airline using 5/8” connector kits. First, slide two hose clamps onto one section of airline. Next insert the 5/8” insert adapter half way into one section of airline and then insert into the next section of airline. Using flathead screwdriver, secure one of the hose clamps onto each half of the insert adapter (see image on the left).

• Option B with Remote Manifold:
  Use 1” Direct Burial Airline or PVC Pipe. Only one run of airline is required from the cabinet location to the pond’s edge. See Remote Manifold Kit manual or watch the installation video at airmaxeco.com/RemoteManifold for more information.

STEP FOUR: Connect Airline(s) to the Compressor Manifold

• Option A & B:
  Slide a hose clamp onto the airline and insert a 3/4” MPT to 3/8” Barb reducer OR 3/4” MPT to 5/8” Barb reducer into the airline, securing with a hose clamp. Next, hand tighten to one of the quick disconnect flex tubes coming from the compressor manifold. Repeat for each diffuser line.

• Option B with Remote Manifold:
  Refer to the Remote Manifold Kit manual or watch the installation video at airmaxeco.com/RemoteManifold for more information.
  Backfill the airline trench in a few areas to temporarily keep the airline in place until installation is complete.

STEP FIVE: Partially Backfill Airline Trench

STEP SIX: Connect Weighted Airline for Diffusers

• Unroll the EasySet weighted airline and remove any twists. Join enough sections of weighted airline, using 3/8” or 5/8” connector kits, so that the airline can rest on the bottom of the pond, from the pond’s edge out to the planned location for each diffuser. For Option B installations, connect the weighted airline to the direct burial airline or Remote Manifold Kit at the pond’s edge.
  Note: Diffusers should be placed equally apart or in areas of low water movement for optimum performance. If you need help choosing the correct location for your diffusers, please contact Airmax or your local dealer.

STEP SEVEN: Assemble and Connect ProAir Diffusers

• See the ProAir Diffuser manual for assembling and connecting the diffusers.

STEP EIGHT: Start the Aeration System

• Plug the compressor and cooling fan into the power control outlet inside of the cabinet. Plug the cabinet power cord into a GFCI power outlet.

STEP NINE: Install the ProAir Diffusers

• Installing Diffusers From a Boat/Raft : Have one person on shore guiding the airline as a second person, using a boat or raft, extends the airline out to the area of the pond where the diffuser will be located. Gently lower the diffuser to the pond bottom using the weighted airline to ensure that the ProAir 2 diffuser remains in the upright position. You may also choose to thread nylon rope through the diffuser manifold and use the nylon rope to gently lower the diffuser until it reaches the pond floor. Release one side of the nylon rope and remove. Repeat until all diffusers are in position.
• Installing Diffusers From Shore: For smaller ponds you may choose to install the diffusers from shore. Have one person guide the airline while another walks around the pond with the diffuser. Then thread nylon rope through the diffuser manifold handle. Use the nylon rope and airline to gently guide the diffuser into place. Once set, release one side of the nylon rope and pull to shore. Repeat until all diffusers are in position.

STEP TEN: Adjust Airflow

• Bubbles should be noticeable on the pond’s surface from the diffuser locations. Adjust the airflow valves on the compressor manifold (For Option B with Remote , do this step at the remote manifold). Once an adjustment is made, you may need to wait several minutes to see the results at the diffuser location(s). 
• Note: Deeper placement of diffusers and longer runs of airline will require more flow.

STEP ELEVEN: Secure Cabinet & Prepare for Start-Up

• Secure the aeration cabinet lid with the 4 lobed screws. Complete backfill on airline trenches and level with a rake. Complete installation by reviewing and following the Initial Start-Up Procedure in Section 3.

Initial Start-Up & Seasonal Operation

• The circulation of poor quality, low oxygen, deep water to the pond’s surface can introduce harmful gases and by-products into the previously healthy upper regions of the water column. These by-products can make the upper regions unfit for aquatic life and could result in fish kill.

Initial Start-Up Procedure To Prevent Fish Kill:
Follow this procedure anytime system has been shut off for an extended period of time.

• Day 1: Run system for 30 minutes; turn system off for remainder of day.
• Day 2: Run system for 1 hour; turn system off for remainder of day.
• Day 3 : Run system for 2 hours; turn system off for remainder of day.
• Day 4: Run system for 4 hours; turn system off for remainder of day.
• Day 5: Run system for 8 hours; turn system off for remainder of day.
• Day 6: Run system for 16 hours; turn system off for remainder of day.
• Day 7: Begin running system 24 hours/day, 7 days/week.

Summer Operation

• To reduce the risk of fish kills in hot summer months and for optimum aeration benefits, Airmax Aeration Systems should run continuously throughout
  the summer.

Winter Operation

• Owner assumes all responsibility for operating Airmax Aeration Systems during winter months. Operating in freezing conditions on an ice-covered pond will cause large open water areas at diffuser sites. Ice thickness around open areas will be much thinner than the surrounding areas. Airmax strongly recommends that “Danger – Thin Ice” be posted at frequent intervals around pond.
• If operating during the winter season, condensation could cause airlines to freeze. If this occurs:
  • Use 1 cup isopropyl alcohol in the airline running out to each plate.
  • Turn on compressor to push through line and free any ice blockage. If you choose to turn your system off for the winter, follow the procedure below.
  • Unplug your aeration system.
  • Disconnect compressor flex tubes from airlines and cap airlines with included winterization caps.
  • I f Camlock Connector Kits are used, cover airline ends with winterization caps (sold separately).
  • Move cabinet and compressor inside to keep dry.

Maintenance

Airmax Aeration Systems are designed for low-maintenance and require minimal scheduled maintenance. Cabinet inlets and outlets should be kept free of debris and weed growth allowing normal ventilation.

• Always unplug system before performing any maintenance or troubleshooting.

• Always unplug system and refer servicing to a qualified electrician when cord is damaged or frayed or when compressor, power control, compressor fan, or other electrical components are producing unusual noises or odors.

• Always use parts that are supplied or approved by Airmax, Inc. Use of other parts may result in poor performance and could create a hazardous situation. ]\

• Local environmental conditions may require more frequent maintenance.
  WARNING: Compressors are equipped with a thermal overload switch. If temperature becomes high enough to trip the overload, the compressor will shut down. It will then automatically start up when temperature decreases as long as power is applied.

• EVERY 3-6 MONTHS – Air Filter: Clean/replace air filter.

• Cooling Fan: Check to ensure cooling fan is operating. Hot air should be pulled from the cabinet, not blowing in.

• EVERY 6-12 MONTHS – Maintenance Kit: It is recommended to install a maintenance kit every 6-12 months to ensure optimum performance.

• EVERY 24-36 MONTHS – Membrane Sticks: We recommend inspecting and/or cleaning the membrane diffuser sticks every 24-36 months, or anytime there is a reduction in bubbles from the diffuser. To clean, use Airmax D-Scale™ (#530298) and a soft cloth.

Watch the Maintenance Kit How-To Video

Troubleshooting

Replacement Parts / Accessories

Cabinet & Compressor Replacement Parts

1. LR Series SilentAir High Efficiency Compressor

   • 120912 – LR25 Linear Diaphragm Compressor

   • 120913 – LR50 Linear Diaphragm Compressor

   • 510147 – LR25 Diaphragm Maintenance Kit

   • 510148 – LR50 Diaphragm Maintenance Kit

2. Airflow Manifold Assembly

   600177 – SW20

   600178 – SW40

3. 510345 – Cooling Fan for 115v Systems

4. 510395 – Air Intake Pre-Filter

5. 490194 – 3⁄8” Flex-Tube Assembly

6. Air Filter

   • 510158 – LR25 Air Filter, 2 Pack

   • 510159 – LR50 Air Filter, 2 Pack

     ProAir 2 Replacement Parts

7. 490333 – Diffuser Sled

8. 490340 – Check Valve

9. 510168 – PTFE 6” Membrane Stick

   • *#490158 – 1” Marine Stainless Hose Clamp

   • *#490227 – 5⁄8” to ¾” Insert Reducer Adapter

   • *#490225 – 3⁄8” to ¾” Insert Reducer Adapter

   • *Not shown in Diagram
     EasySet Airline

   • 510118 – 3⁄8” Weighted Airline, 100’ Roll

   • 510119 – 5⁄8” Weighted Airline, 100’ Roll

   • 510120 – 5⁄8” Direct Burial Airline, 100’ Roll

     Security Kit

10. 510430 – Cabinet Security Stake Kit (Optional)

11. 510424 – Cabinet Security Bolt Kit

    Optional Remote Manifold Kits

12. 12. #600194 – Airmax 4-Port Remote Manifold Kit

Connector Kits

• THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING
• Cleaning Water Naturally
• www.airmaxeco.com

United States Limited Warranty

• Airmax, Inc. warrants to the original purchaser (the end user) of any Airmax Aeration System manufactured by Airmax, Inc. that any aeration system component which proves to be defective in materials or workmanship, as determined by the factory within the timeframe specified below from the shipping date, will be repaired or replaced at no charge with a new or remanufactured part, and returned freight prepaid. The end user shall assume all the responsibility and expense for removal, packaging, and freight to ship to Airmax, Inc. to determine the warranty claim and for all reinstallation expenses.
  • Cabinet – 10 Years
  • Compressor and Electrical Components – 3 Years
  • Airline & Diffusers – 5 Years
• The warranty is void in cases where damage results from: improper installation, improper electrical connection, improper voltage, alteration, lightning, careless handling, misuse, abuse, disassembly of motor or failure to follow maintenance or operating instructions. Modification or repair by an unauthorized repair facility will void the warranty. Compressor seals, diaphragms, air filters and diffuser membranes are considered wear parts and are not covered under warranty.
• In no case will Airmax, Inc. or its dealers accept responsibility for any costs incurred by the user during installation, removal, inspection, evaluation, repair, parts replacement, or for return freight. Nor will any liability be accepted for loss of use, loss of profits, loss of goodwill, for consequential damage, or for personal injuries to the purchaser or any person.
• In the event of problems believed to be covered under warranty, it will be necessary to notify the dealer who will try to help resolve the problem and who may contact the factory for additional assistance. If it is concluded that there may be a defect which may be covered under warranty, it will be necessary to get a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from the dealer before shipment. Freight collect shipments will not be accepted by the factory on warranties or repairs.
• The product or part(s) must be returned freight prepaid, to the factory, as directed, and in its original packaging or in a container which will prevent damage. Parts returned under warranty and damaged during shipping will not be covered under warranty for the shipping damage. If the factory evaluation of the returned goods concludes that the failure is due to defects in materials or workmanship, the part or parts in question will be replaced under warranty with new parts, remanufactured parts, or will be repaired; at the factory’s option. The warranty period for all parts supplied under warranty will terminate at the end of the original product’s warranty. All warranty shipments from the factory will be shipped freight prepaid.

Warranty registration is HIGHLY recommended.

• No implied warranties of any kind are made by Airmax, Inc. for its products, and no other warranties, whether expressed or implied, including implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, shall apply. Should an Airmax, Inc. product prove to be defective in materials or workmanship, the retail purchaser’s sole remedy shall be repair or replacement of the product as expressly provided above.
• The manufacturer’s warranty will begin from the dealer’s original purchase date if the product is not registered. To register a product, you are required to fill out the warranty form at airmaxeco.com/warranty. Warranty registration must be submitted directly to Airmax within 30 days of the end-users purchase date. When making warranty claims, end-users may be required to supply their proof of purchase.
  • Airmax, Inc.
  • 15425 Chets Way Street Armada, MI 48005
  • (866) 4-AIRMAX
  • airmaxeco.com

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>