Kasco De-icers – The Best Solution to Protect Your Boat & Dock from Ice Damage
A history of Kasco De-icers, how de-icers work, and why Kasco’s provide the best protection for your property
Published: Monday, September 12, 2022 12:00 pm
By: Andy Gillis, Kasco De-icer Product Specialist
A version of this article appeared in the Fall (September/October) 2022 of Great Lakes Scuttlebutt magazine.
In 1968, an innovative marina operator in Minnesota needed a way to keep his marina ice-free during the harsh winter months. Through his determination and countless hours of trial and error, he developed a motor that could be submerged under water and pull warmer water toward the surface. This would melt the ice at the water’s surface creating an ice-free area of protection around boats, docks and anything else in the water. With this design, Kasco was formed.
Since then, Kasco has been working diligently to perfect our de-icing technology and ensure boats and docks are protected from ice damage even in the harshest winters. Recent testing has shown that Kasco de-icers create more thrust than competitive units, meaning they create more open water and larger areas of protection around in-water property.
De-icing 101
Kasco has been installing de-icers in countless applications since 1968. From backyard ponds, to marinas and industrial settings, Kasco has more than 50 years of experience in correctly sizing and installing de-icers for optimal performance. De-icing can sometimes be described as more of an art than a science, as each application and installation is different. But with the right installation, Kasco de-icers are extremely effective in keeping ice away and protecting valuable property.
HOW ICE FORMS & THE DAMAGE IT CAN CAUSE
As colder temperatures settle in, warm, dense water sinks to the bottom of the waterbody leaving the colder water to remain at the surface and eventually freeze. As ice freezes, it expands and contracts causing it to raise, lower, push, and even split anything it’s attached to, resulting in damage and an expensive fix. De-icers will protect property in the water by bringing up warmer water from the bottom preventing ice from forming on the surface.
BENEFITS TO FISH & WATER QUALITY
In addition to protecting valuable property, de-icers keep fish and other aquatic species safe by allowing oxygen to enter the water through the open area. Increasing the oxygen levels will enable marine life to thrive during the cold winter. De-icers can also be used for countless applications, such as shallow water, shorelines, and areas around boats, docks, and piers. You can even design a system that accounts for fluctuations in water-depth.
Kasco De-icers
Kasco De-icers are offered in several size configurations making them extremely versatile. Available in 1/2, 3/4, and 1HP unit sizes, and with power cord lengths from 25 - 200 ft., Kasco de-icers work great in countless applications. Packages include the de-icing unit, power cord, and mooring lines for easy installation. Kasco offers additional mounting options and control panels that activate the equipment based on time and temperature.
Made with stainless steel components, Kasco De-icers are built to last in fresh water and salt water conditions and can withstand the coldest winters.
Kasco De-icers are the best, most efficient way to clear ice and protect your boat, dock, slip or anything else left in the water over winter. With more than 50 years of experience perfecting the art of protecting property from ice damage, Kasco offers the best equipment on the market.
To learn more about our de-icers or talk to an expert, visit our website at www.kascomarine.com or call us at 715-262-4488.
tags: Education, Service & Repair
