Airmax Ice Eater Product Manual

Safety Instructions

⚠️ WARNING: This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

⚠️ CAUTION SHOULD BE USED WHEN DEALING WITH ANY ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT WITH MOVING PARTS.

• Never lift or drag the unit by the power cord. Use the provided mooring line to move the unit.
• The motor is provided with a ground wire or grounding-type plug for protection. Ensure the ground wire is securely attached to a proper electrical ground or use the grounding-type plug only with a properly grounded receptacle.
• Use Ground Fault Interrupter (GFCI) protection in accordance with the National Electric Code.
• DO NOT cut or remove the ground prong from a grounding-type plug. Rework or damage to the cord may create a shock hazard and will void the warranty.
• Consult a qualified electrician for a safe installation.
• Under no circumstances should anyone enter the water with the electrical equipment connected and/or in operation.
• ALWAYS disconnect the Ice Eater from the power source before any servicing, cleaning, or moving of the unit by unplugging or removing the fuse or deactivating the circuit breaker.
• When using the Ice Eater with a thermostat, the unit will start automatically by air temperature.
• Do not remove the end cover plate; removal will void the warranty. All authorized repairs must be made at the factory or an authorized service station.
• RECOMMENDED: Use a commercial-grade breaker and a dedicated circuit per unit.
• ⚠️ WARNING: Do not run the unit out of water. The unit must be submerged. Keep hands clear.

Specification Sheet

How Ice Eater Works

When water freezes, it expands and becomes lighter. The Ice Eater functions on this principle by using its propeller to draw warmer subsurface water to the surface. This creates constant circulation of warmer water, preventing ice formation and melting existing ice. The Ice Eater is custom-designed for maximum efficiency and performance in all climates, utilizing an axial flow, shrouded propeller design for superior operating efficiency and propeller protection.

Quick Facts

• Agitates more fresh and salt water than other de-icers on the market.
• Average open diameter under normal winter conditions: 20'-25' (.25HP), 40' (.5HP), 60' (.75HP), and 80' (1HP).
• Complete package includes: assembled motor unit, shroud, two 25' long 3/8" thick hollow braided polypropylene ropes, SJTOW rated 3-wire power cord, and a Sacrificial Aluminum Anode.
• Sacrificial Aluminum Anode is installed for corrosion protection and use in salt-water applications. Additional anodes and electrolysis kits are available.
• Available in 115V or 230V.
• Able to operate in water as shallow as 24" (41cm).
• 15 Amp Breaker Recommended.
• Total components listed meet UL and CSA Standards for Safety in Water.
• UL Listed Water Circulating Pump (E481181).
• Met Listing No. E112360.
• Energy efficient with excellent Gallons per Minute (GPM)/kW rates.
• Industrial Strength Design.
• 3-Year Warranty.

Statistics by Horsepower

All Motors

• 1,650 Rotations per Minute (RPM).
• 24 pounds of thrust.
• Fluid Cooled, Continuous Duty Rated.
• (2) Long Life Bearings.
• Thermal Overload Protection.
• Fully Utilized Heavy Duty Carbon Ceramic Mechanical Seal.
• Series 300 Austenitic Stainless Housing with Magnesium Bronze End-Bell.

Housing and Power Cable

• Patented heavy-duty PVC Venturi housing designed for superior water flow and motor/propeller protection.
• Series 300 Stainless Steel Hardware.
• (2) 25' long 3/8" thick hollow braided polypropylene ropes.
• Power Cable: SJTOW UL & CSA Approved Underwater Rated Cable, 3 Wire.
• Available lengths: 115V (50', 100', 150' with Quick Disconnect); 230V (50', 100', 150', 200', 250', 300', 350', 400' with Quick Disconnect).
• Other cord lengths available via special order (may not include Quick Disconnect).
• Potted Quick Disconnect Gauge Cord.
• Cable gauge: 16/3 gauge for 25', 50', and 100' cords; 14/3 gauge for 150', 200', and longer cords.

Optional Thermostat

Simple and easy to use. Plug the portable thermostat into the wall outlet, then plug an Ice Eater into the back of the thermostat's piggyback plug and set the temperature. It is not affected by surges, lightning strikes, or power outages like digital thermostats. Features a convenient flip-open clear cover for weather and damage protection and a moisture-proof box. Made in the USA.

Optional Timer

• Outdoor grade plastic.
• 24-hour timer with 23-1/2 hour maximum on time.
• Standard with (2) "ON" & (2) "OFF" trippers; dial accepts up to 12 sets of trippers.
• Electrical Rating: 15 A (1100W), Resistive or Tungsten.
• Agency Approval: CSA/C-UL.
• Outdoor grade cord with ground plug, 3 wire, 22 inches.

Optional Dock Mount

• Adjusts the Ice Eater angle in 20-degree increments from horizontal to vertical with full 360-degree positioning.
• Steel mounting base and bail pipe holder are powder coated twice for corrosion protection.
• Maximum pipe length is 6' to provide secure mounting and prevent pole bending.
• Made in the USA.

Installation & Operation

Installation

• Upon delivery, inspect the Ice Eater shipment for any visible damages and report them to your dealer.
• The Ice Eater is completely assembled. No additional hardware is needed unless using an optional dock mount or shallow water stand.
• Install the Ice Eater by hanging it with the provided mooring lines in the area to be kept clear of ice. A dock mount and shallow water stand are sold separately.
• The Ice Eater may be hung from a pier or a boat.
• Place the Ice Eater at a depth that produces the best results for each specific location (2-3 feet is a good average operating depth).
• ⚠️ WARNING: Do not place Ice Eater on the bottom. Ensure at least 1' clearance from the bottom. If hung from a boat or floating pier, guard against a falling tide depositing the unit on the bottom.
• Hanging Configurations:
• ℹ️ For a circular pattern of de-icing, hang the Ice Eater straight (see Figures 1A & 1B). Use top rim holes A & B (Figure 3).
• ℹ️ For an elongated pattern of de-icing, hang the Ice Eater at an angle (see Figures 2A & 2B). Use Rim Hole A and C, D, E, or F. The operating angle increases as the suspension line moves towards Hole F.
• Figure 1A & 1B Description: Illustrates the Ice Eater unit suspended vertically from a single point, creating a circular de-icing pattern.
• Figure 2A & 2B Description: Illustrates the Ice Eater unit suspended at an angle using multiple suspension points on the rim, creating an elongated de-icing pattern.
• Figure 3 Description: Shows the top rim of the Ice Eater with labeled suspension holes (A, B, C, D, E, F) for various hanging configurations.
• ⚠️ WARNING: When using an extension cord, it must be sized appropriately: Up to 100ft - Use #12/3 wire cord. Up to 200ft - Use #10/3 wire cord.
• Ensure the unit is properly grounded and GFCI protected.

Operation

• After installation, the Ice Eater is ready for immediate use.
• The Ice Eater is designed for continuous duty in harsh conditions.
• Operate only when submerged in water.
• Regularly inspect the sacrificial anode, propeller, etc., and replace parts as necessary.
• ℹ️ For optimum operation, service the unit every four to five years. Commercial operations may require more frequent servicing.

Maintenance

• The Ice Eater motor is sealed and filled with a special non-toxic dielectric lubricating fluid; no additional lubrication is required.
• Storage: When storing the unit, clean it thoroughly and place it propeller side down in a flat, cool place. Storing propeller side down helps keep the seals lubricated.
• Cleaning: Units in heavy weed or plant locations may require occasional cleaning of the screen and propeller. Always disconnect the unit from the power source before cleaning. Use a stiff, nylon bristle brush. Cleaners can be used, but rinse thoroughly with fresh water to avoid residue that could harm plants and animals.
• Debris Inspection: Routinely inspect the propeller, internal brackets, and shaft for accumulation of weeds, vines, or string. Foreign objects can damage seals, the prop, and shaft. Keep the shaft and propeller clear of debris. Inspect brackets and propeller for chips and cracks; damaged parts can be replaced in the field with factory parts.
• Power Cord Inspection: Inspect the power cord for breaks, nicks, and abrasion. If the outer jacket is cut deeply enough to expose inner conductors, or if copper wire is visible, the cord must be replaced immediately to avoid severe shock hazards.
• Sacrificial Anode: Units operated in brackish or salt water must have a sacrificial anode attached to the shaft. Inspect the anode periodically for deterioration. Operation without the anode could lead to metal deterioration, contamination, and may void the warranty.
• Motor Service: The motor can only be opened and assembled under special conditions at the factory or an authorized service center. Do not attempt to repair the motor yourself, as tampering may void the warranty and could result in equipment failure or bodily injury.
• ⚠️ WARNING: Do not open the sealed motor unit for any reason.

Troubleshooting Tips

1. If the unit does not start:
   • Check power source for available voltage.
   • Ensure power cord connections are fully made and tight.
   • Check if the circuit breaker is tripped or the fuse is blown. Check the ground-fault interrupter. Consult an electrician if any are tripped or blown.
   • Unplug the unit and ensure the propeller turns freely.
   • Plug the unit back in and try to start again.
2. If the unit starts slowly or does not have full flow:
   • Check power source for voltage drop or undersized service. Equipment on the same circuit may need to be started individually.
   • Unplug the unit and ensure the propeller turns freely.
   • Unplug the unit and check for debris around the propeller or shaft.
   • Check the screen for cleanliness; remove any algae or grass accumulation.
3. If the unit starts and stops intermittently:
   • Check power source for voltage drop or undersized service; the unit may be overheating due to low voltage.
   • Unplug the unit and ensure there is no debris around the propeller or shaft; overheating may be due to overload.

Parts & Accessories

• Propellers: Mini Blue (P250), Yellow (P500), Blue (P750), Green (P1000).
• Brackets: Set of 4. Small (fits P250), Large (fits P500, P750, P1000).
• Timers:
  • P1101 Timer (115V): Grounded plug-in timer with outdoor-rated, raintight enclosure; (2) ON and (2) OFF settings.
  • T104P Timer (230V): Heavy-duty timer with high horsepower ratings for industrial, commercial, and residential applications.
• Thermostat: 0°F - 80°F range. Controls operation based on ambient air temperature. Available for 115V & 230V.
• Screen Kits: Small (fits P500), Large (fits P750, P1000).
• Sacrificial Anode: Aluminum, fits all models. Protects against corrosion and electrolysis in salt water, high electrical current, and/or warm water. Includes 1 anode and 1 hex key.
• Electrolysis Kit: One Size, fits all Ice Eater models. Provides additional protection against corrosion and electrolysis in areas of high salinity, high electrical current, and/or warm waters.
• Shackles: Set of 2. One Size, fits all models. 1/4" stainless steel shackles with a 9/64" short arm hex key.
• Mooring Lines: (2) 25' blue ropes, 3/8" thick hollow braided polypropylene.
• Dock Mount: Premium option for secure positioning, unaffected by current. Small (fits P500), Large (fits P750 & P1000).
• Ice Eater Shrouds: Patented heavy-duty PVC Venturi housing for superior water flow and motor/propeller protection. Half (fits P250), Small (10"x12", fits P500), Large (12"x15", fits P750 & P1000).
• Replacement Parts: Replacement power cords, critter sleeving, and motor assemblies are available for every Ice Eater model.

Warranty Information

Airmax, Inc. warrants products to be free from defects in material and workmanship for the specified warranty period from the date of manufacture, under normal use and service.

Limited Warranty Exclusions:

• Mishandling, misuse, improper installation, or improper electrical supply.
• Damage or alterations by unauthorized tampering and/or repairs.
• Abuse, negligence, accident, or misapplication (e.g., chips/nicks, propeller deterioration).
• Improper storage.
• Running the unit out of water.
• Use of an improper-sized extension cord or circuit.

Warranty Coverage and Service:

• Airmax will replace any defective parts covered by warranty without charge for parts or labor if the full unit is returned to Airmax or an Authorized Service Center within thirty (30) days of discovering the defect.
• This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, including merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Airmax is not liable for incidental or consequential damages.
• Standard maintenance services and replacement of service items (seals, bearings, dielectric fluid, boot, capacitor) are covered by warranty for specific Airmax products.
• All units must be shipped prepaid to: Airmax, Inc., Attn: Service Center, 15425 Chets Way Street, Armada, MI 48005, or to an authorized Airmax repair center.
• An evaluation fee (e.g., $65) plus return shipping may be charged for units returned for repair and found in good working condition, or for units customers decide not to repair. The fee is waived if the unit is scrapped or repaired.
• After the original warranty period, a thirty (30) day warranty applies to standard repairs by Airmax. A new, full warranty is only reissued with the purchase of a brand-new motor.

Product-Specific Warranty Notes:

• Warranty Period: Three (3) years from the date of manufacture.
• If a unit is used for purposes other than de-icing, a one (1) year limited warranty applies.
• Limitations: No circulator de-icer can prevent all ice damage in certain conditions, such as moving ice, extremely cold weather forming ice to the bottom, or very shallow water where bottom temperature equals ice temperature. Reduced efficiency may occur if flow is restricted by insufficient bottom clearance.
• In areas of high salinity, high electrical current, and/or warm temperatures, an Airmax electrolysis kit must be mounted to the stainless steel can.
• This limited warranty does not include defects or failures of the sacrificial anode, ropes, power cord, propeller, or brackets. The warranty is voided if the sacrificial anode shows significant deterioration, or if the shaft and can are not kept clear of debris (string, bags, calcium buildup, barnacles, etc.), or if the propeller shows excessive wear. Failure to inspect and replace anodes constitutes misuse.
• All units sent for evaluation must be complete.
• Units sent to Airmax or authorized repair centers are considered abandoned if not claimed after six (6) months and will be scrapped.

Airmax, Inc.
15425 Chets Way Street
Armada, MI 48005
(866) 4-AIRMAX
airmaxeco.com