Things You'll Need
- Heat gun
- Hot water
- Pond bubbler or de-icer
Instructions
Create a Hole
Visually determine the thickness of the ice.
For a thin layer of ice, less than 1 inch, you can try using a bucket or two of very hot tap water to create an opening.
For thicker ice, use a heat gun. Use it only with an exterior grade extension cord and use extreme care. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination.
Hold the heat gun approximately 6 inches above the ice, at least 6 inches from the edge of the pond. If you have a rubber liner, do not apply heat any closer than the recommended 6 inches.
A battery-operated hand drill fitted with a large drill bit can be used to create a hole in the ice also. This hole can be enlarged with hot water or a heat gun.
Prevent Freezing
Install a bubbler or de-icer to keep the hole open.
Use only an exterior grade extension cord.
If your pond has a rubber liner, use a bubbler. A heated de-icer can damage your liner.