Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the differences between the various ultrasonic devices that inhibit algae?
- Are the LG Sonic® models harmful to fish or plants?
- Should the device be in operation continuously?
- Can I use a longer or shorter transducer cable?
- Will the unit also work for my aquarium?
- Which types of algae are the most difficult to control?
- After having the ultrasonic device in operation for a couple of weeks it looks as if there are more algae then before. What happened?
- Is it better to use a bigger or a smaller model for my pond?
- Should the units also be in operation during winter?
- How do I know if the transducer is working?
- Where should the transducer be placed for the best results?
- Which types of algae are inhibited by which device and how much time does it take?
What are the differences between the various ultrasonic devices that inhibit algae?
Although all LG Sonic® devices operate in the same way (by using ultrasonic sound waves from the same frequencies), each has a different capacity and range of action. Every type of device is tailor-made for a specific application. The various applications are all described under products.
Are the LG Sonic® models harmful to fish or plants?
No, there have been no cases in which the LG Sonic® seems to negatively influence the behaviour of fish or growth of plants and fish. In addition, the LG Sonic® even seems to benefit the fish, because the water quality is being improved by the LG Sonic® and the competition for nutrients, (sun) light and space between plants and algae is being diminished.
Should the device be in operation continuously?
This is surely recommendable. The power consumption of the devices is very low and thus the costs of continuous operation is too. By having the LG Sonic® permanently operating in your water reservoir it prevents new algae to cause a bloom.
Can I use a longer or shorter transducer cable?
Preferably not! It is always best to either lengthen the electricity cable or bring the electricity source closer to the water reservoir. When both options are unavailable, you can use a longer cable, but only one made to the needed measurement, which you can order from your LG Sound dealer. This cable will have the right connecting plugs fitting to the electrical box and the transducer cable. Be aware: this connection is only drip waterproof, under no circumstances can it be used under water! Also a mounted cable to the required length can be supplied on ordering. Lengthening the cable will cause some loss of strength of the signal.
Will the unit also work for my aquarium?
Yes, the smallest model from LG Sound, the LG Sonic® XS can be used to treat an aquarium against algal growth. We do advise to scoop of dead algae which will sink to the bottom or float to the surface, not only for visual improvement but also to prevent the algae from decomposing in the aquarium. For this may cause an increase of ammonium and nitrates in the water.
Which types of algae are the most difficult to control?
This depends on the application: the type of water body for which the LG Sonic® is being used. In swimming pools, the strongest algae, and thus the toughest to kill, are the black algae which mostly grow in the joints of the tiles. But even they will eventually disappear. Another strong type of algae are filamentous algae. Some patience is definitely required here, as they knit closely together, forming something that resembles a curtain which hinders the ultrasonic vibrations from penetrating the water properly. But the LG Sonic® devices can control them as well, after which the algae can be removed easily from the water. This has to be done regularly until the algal growth has been controlled.
The number of algae has not increased, it only looks that way! There are two possible reasons for this: Sometimes (roaming) algae do not sink to the bottom after being LG Sonic® treatment, but form a tiny methane (gas) bubble, which makes them drift to the surface, giving the impression as if they have multiplied fast. If one pushes the dead algae aside one can see the clear water underneath. After a rain shower the bubbles normally brake and the dead algae will sink to the bottom. If you do not have the time to wait for rain, the algae can be scooped off. Dead filamentous algae are loosened from the bottom and sides of the water reservoir and then fall apart, thus suggesting that there are more algae in the water then before. Dead filamentous algae always have to be scooped from the water surface because they block the water surface and absorb the ultrasound waves like a blanket.
Is it better to use a bigger or a smaller model for my pond?
In case the pond exceeds the length and width from one model, we always advise to use a bigger model. The small models will not always cover the complete pond, whereby a part of the pond will not be treated against algae. This will lead to a flow of living algal cells to the treated area of the pond, thereby leading to less results with the LG Sonic® devices. In some ponds, a bigger model can also be advise to you, although the ponds’ measurements lie within the range of one model. This can be a result of a high biomass of fish or plants, a high concentration of nutrients (nitrates, phosphates) or a high water flow within the water reservoir.
Should the units also be in operation during winter?
It is recommendable to keep the units in operation even after the seasons. This prevents the growth of new algae but will also help prevent an algal bloom in spring. In winter, when the temperature of the water drops below 0 degrees Celsius, we recommend to take the unit from the water to prevent damage to the float and transducer due to the frost.
How do I know if the transducer is working?
When the red control light on the electronic box is blinking (4 seconds on, 1 second off), it means that the device is working. To check if the transducer is working you can hear a little ‘click’ when holding your ear next to the transducer about every 4 seconds. Don't put the transducer straight to your ear. If you have a LG Sonic unit that has a Dual Tester included you can use the Dual Tester to check if the control box is sending out sound signals by connecting it to the transducer cable outlet. You can also check if the transducer is still working by measuring the sound strength within the water with the Dual Tester. Please refer to the manual of your Dual Tester for more information.
Where should the transducer be placed for the best results?
There where the 180 degrees beamed waves, which are issued from the front of the transducer, cover as much of the water mass as possible. It should be about 20 cm under the surface and not less than 20 cm from the bottom. Following these guidelines, the best position for the transducer usually is in a corner facing out. Furthermore, the LG Sonic® Plus, XXL, XL and Tank models are provided with a float, which keeps the transducer at the optimal level within the water. With every device purchased by LG Sound, a comprehensive manual is provided which explains the installation completely (also find the manual on the web-site). Furthermore, LG Sound advises the place of installation to all her customers.
Which types of algae are inhibited by which device and how much time does it take?
There are at least twenty thousand types of algae in existence, which react in various ways to the treatment and their demise. The most common algae are the so-called “roaming algae”. These are brought into the water by wind and rain and will be the quickest to die, in a day or two. Other types might last a couple of weeks, but will be reduced just the same in due time. Even though some algae die rather fast, it might take up to 6 weeks before the effects are visible with the bare eye.