Tips for Using Your Kasco De-Icer

Maximize the performance of your Kasco De-Icer by following these proven setup and positioning tips. Proper placement ensures the largest ice-free zone while protecting your dock, boats, and shoreline.

Shallow Water De-Icing

• How it works: A de-icer draws warmer, denser water from the bottom and circulates it upward, preventing ice from forming or melting existing ice.

• Setup tip: Place the de-icer near a deeper water area and angle it toward the shallow area. This pushes warm water into shallow zones, keeping them ice-free.

• Best for: Protecting wildlife access (e.g., waterfowl) and keeping shallow shorelines open.

Boat De-Icing

• Positioning: Install the de-icer at or near the bow, angled toward the stern.

• For large boats:

  • Multiple units may be required.

  • Follow the natural contour of the hull for best results.

• Mounting options:

  • Hang from cleats and suspend under the hull.

  • For very wide hulls, suspend units on both sides.

  • In deeper water, diffusers can be installed directly under the hull.

Dock, Pier & Shoreline De-Icing

• Dock/Pier setup: Place the de-icer at an angle directing water toward the shoreline or retaining wall.

• Result: Creates a “T-shaped” open-water pattern, extending protection along both the dock and shoreline.

• Shoreline management:

  • If open shoreline water is not desired, install vertically.

  • Use a water curtain to restrict flow beyond a chosen boundary.

Water Fluctuations & Tidal Areas

• Fixed setup: Position the de-icer so it sits midway between the low and high tide depths.

• Floating setup: Tie the de-icer to a boat or floating dock so it automatically rises and falls with the tide.

Installation Guidelines

• Always use the provided mooring lines or a mounting kit to secure your de-icer.

• Ensure the unit is angled correctly for your application (shallow, boat, dock, or shoreline).

• For best results, test the unit in calm conditions and adjust placement before winter’s coldest days.

• Pair with a Kasco Control Panel (C-10 or C-20) for automated operation, saving energy while maximizing protection.

Pro Tip: Experiment with angles and placement early in the season—small adjustments can dramatically increase the size of your ice-free area.