Ah, the allure of a flamethrower. Few tools inspire such excitement—or questionable decision-making. But when it comes to melting ice on your pond, is this fiery contraption a good idea? Should you melt pond ice with a flame thrower? Let’s dive in (but not literally, it’s freezing out there).
First, a quick clarification: what we’re calling a “flamethrower” is probably more accurately a “flame torch kit.” Sounds less dramatic, but trust me, it’s still a lot of firepower for your average backyard pond scenario.
Your everyday, at home flame torch kit.
How did we get to a flamethrower?
Picture this: you’ve got a beautiful goldfish pond that also doubles as a lily propagation station. The temperatures drop, the ice sets in, and your trusty aerators are doing their job, keeping a hole open for gas exchange so the fish won’t die. All is well.
But then, disaster strikes—the GFI trips, the aerators stop, and the pond freezes solid. You look at the ice, then at your flame torch, and an idea begins to form. Could I melt pond ice with a flamethrower? Spoiler alert: no, well yes, but it’s not a great idea.
The Case Against Flamethrowers for Pond Ice
While a flamethrower will melt ice (believe me, it takes longer than you think it would to do this), it also introduces some unintended—and unpleasant—side effects:
- Gas Residue: A flame torch burns gas, and when you use it on ice, a residue can settle on the surface. Do you know what fish don’t love? Gasoline in their home. Even a small amount can upset the delicate balance of your pond’s ecosystem. Even Goldfish, who are somewhat hardy.
- Collateral Damage: You may not be just just melting ice. That flame can and will damage anything it touches—liner, cords, pumps, you name it. We’ve heard from clients who learned this the hard way. Melted liners are expensive to replace, and melted electric cords? Well, let’s just say that’s a shocking way to ruin your day.
Remember that if the water fall freezes over, it is likely flowing underneath! Look closely for movement and listen near the ice!
A Better Way to Handle Ice
Before you channel your inner action hero, consider these alternatives:
- If the cold weather snuck up on you are the pond wasn’t ready, DO NOT BANG on the ice! The sound can be seriously loud and upsetting for the fish. Look, not everyone is concerned about “upsetting the fish”, but remember that too much stress and they will die.
- Check the weather: If it will clear up in a couple of days the ice will melt and the fish will be ok for 2 days.
- Melt through the ice: Find a thin spot or use the thinner ice if the aerator hole froze over and pour hot water from a pot or tea kettle on the ice to melt it. Please be very careful doing this and if you can’t reach the aerator hole, find a place you can reach without walking on the ice. It can help open a small hole without risking your pond liner or your fish’s safety. It will take probably 2 or 3 times of doing this so having 3 of them ready to go with a 2nd persons’ assistance will work better. Put a deicer in the hole once you create it.
- Deicers: A good deicer is your best friend. Always keep one on hand—it’s a simple, reliable solution. In the pond is best and an extra one is covering all bases.
- Different outlets: Plug your pump and aerator into different outlets. That way if one goes out or the GFI is tripped, either the movement from the pump or the deicer will still be in place.
- Cord connection coverage: Make sure cords that are plugged in to outlets or extension cords have the connections covered. Use a fake rock, a plastic container or anything to make sure the electrical connection does not get wet form snow or rain.
- DON’T Break the ice! When you are looking at your pond, that is doing perfectly fine, one of the quickest ways to cause a problem is to break the ice!
The Flamethrower Temptation
Let’s be honest: the idea of using a flamethrower is exciting. There’s something about wielding a torch that speaks to our primal instincts. But in the battle of coolness versus practicality, practicality wins every time—especially when it comes to the health of your pond and the safety of your backyard.
The Bottom Line
If the question “Should I melt pond ice with a flame thrower?” ever crosses your mind, the answer is a resounding no. Sure, it sounds fun, but the potential for disaster far outweighs the thrill. Save the flame torch for more appropriate uses, like clearing weeds or igniting a bonfire.
Learn about Getting the Colorado Pond ready for Winter so you are ready! When it comes to your pond, stick to the tried-and-true methods. Your fish (and your wallet) will thank you!