Kasco VFX Manual
2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 1
MOVING WATER FORWARD, SINCE 1968
Operation &
Maintenance
Manual
Document number 884170
Document version 2021.2.1
VFX
DECORATIVE
AERATOR
2400, 3400, 4400
3020379
ANSI/UL 778: 2016
Ed.6+R:22Feb2017
CSA C22.2 #108: 2014 Ed.5
2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 1
715.262.4488
TABLE OF CONTENTS
QUESTIONS?
Safety First...............................................................................................................................2
General Instructions...............................................................................................................3
Unit Specications & Pattern Size ........................................................................................4
Parts Included .........................................................................................................................5
Unit Installation Instructions ................................................................................................7
Replacement Parts .................................................................................................................8
Maintenance Recommendations..........................................................................................9
Troubleshooting Tips............................................................................................................10
Warranty ................................................................................................................................11
Non-Warranty Repairs .........................................................................................................12
Repair Contact Form ............................................................................................................13
2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 2
IMPORTANT: PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL AND SAVE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
Moving Machinery
WARNINGS:
Shock Hazard
SAFETY FIRST
• Please read and follow these important instructions to help ensure your safety and the quality
performance of your Kasco equipment.
• Use caution when dealing with any electrical and/or moving equipment.
• Under NO CIRCUMSTANCE should anyone enter the water with the electrical equipment plugged in and/
or in operation.
• Kasco Aerating Fountains are intended for use with a Listed control panel having a GFCI protected
receptacle, or eld wiring terminals and disconnect switch, or a timer with a disconnect for use with
a GFCI receptacle. Control panels MUST be installed by a qualied electrician. Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupters (GFCIs) should be tested upon each installation and every month thereafter to ensure
proper operation.
• Single-phase units are supplied with an internal grounding conductor and/or a grounding-type
attachment plug. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, be certain the unit is properly connected to the
Kasco-supplied control panel (refer to the instructions included with your control panel).
• NEVER run the unit out of the water. This will damage the seals and create a dangerous situation for the
operator.
• Use extreme caution around water, especially cold water, as in spring, fall, and winter, which poses a
hazard in and of itself.
• NEVER lift or drag the equipment by the power cords. If you need to pull the unit to the side of the pond,
use the anchoring ropes.
• Do not use boats that tip easily for installation and follow all boating safety rules and regulations,
including wearing a PFD (Personal Flotation Device).
• Do not use waders in deep ponds/lakes or ponds/lakes with drop-os, drastic slopes, or soft bottom
material.
• Control panels must be installed by a qualied electrician.
• For more information regarding your control panel instructions, refer to your control panel owner’s
manual. A control panel must be installed a minimum of 5 feet (3m in Canada) from the body of water
unless separated from the body of water by a fence, wall, or other permanent barrier that will make
the unit inaccessible to persons in the water. A complete list of control panels can be found in the
Accessories section of kascomarine.com.
During otation operation, water is pulled from 360° around and directly below the unit. Keep these
areas clear of debris as much as possible to decrease frequency of screen cleaning.
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2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 3
Inspect the Shipment
Immediately inspect your Kasco Aerator shipment for any visible damages. Also cross-reference the parts
supplied with the Parts Included sheet to check for shortages. Shortages should be reported immediately to
your Kasco Marine distributor or representative and damages reported to your carrier and Kasco Marine.
Assembly & Installation
Please see the proper Assembly and Installation Instructions enclosed in this manual. Each is specic for
your model and size of aerator.
• Use a nylon tie to help keep the power cords for the unit and lights free of the propeller by tying each
cord to either side of the oat. If you have a light kit, make sure that the unit cord is tied to one side of
the oat and the light cord to the other for balance.
• It is extremely important to test the GFCI breaker in the control panel upon each installation/re-installa-
tion of the unit to ensure proper functioning.
Use & Operation
Kasco aerators are designed and engineered for continuous duty, such as on sh farms or other aquacul-
ture applications, or on-demand use, as needed in a recreational water feature. During otation operation,
the water is pulled from 360 degrees around the unit and from below the unit. The water is pulled upward
and thrust through the otation collar into the air. Your Kasco Marine aerator is ready for immediate use
(after installation). Make sure to keep the motor housing clean from hard water deposits and/or algae. (See
Maintenance Recommendations.) It is extremely important that proper and sucient voltage is supplied to
the aerator motor. Unit should be protected by a GFCI. Control panels must be installed by a qualied elec-
trician. (See Installation instructions).
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
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2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 4
UNIT SPECIFICATIONS & PATTERN SIZE
Model Pattern
Size Voltage Operating
Amps
Locked
Rotor Amps
Control Panel Connection /
Unit Connection
Height Width Single-Phase Units
2400VFX 5 ft. 15 ft. 110-120 5.6 12 C-25 plug in / Plug into C-25
3400VFX 5.5 ft. 21 ft. 110-120 7.3 18 C-25 plug in / Plug into C-25
3400HVFX 5.5 ft. 21 ft. 208-240 3.7 9 Hardwire C-85 / Plug into or
hardwire C-85
4400VFX 8 ft. 26 ft. 110-120 11.3 40 C-25 plug in / Plug into C-25
4400HVFX 8 ft. 26 ft. 208-240 5.7 20 Hardwire C-85 / Plug into or
hardwire C-85
• 7/16” socket and ratchet
• 7/16” wrench
• 11/32” wrench (for #8 fasteners)
7/16’’ combination wrench
11/32” wrench
7/16’’ socket
TOOLS AND SUPPLIES NEEDED
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2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 5
PARTS INCLUDED
ID Description Qty Part #
1 Aerator 1 N/A
2 Float 1 242001
3 1/4”-20 x 3-1/2” Phillips pan head
screw
4 251210
4 1/4” split washers 7840537
51/4” (3/4” OD) at washer 10 251300
6 1/4”-20 x 1-3/4” hex head screw 3 475630
7 Bottom screen section 3 361540
8 1/4”-20 nut 3 840536
9 #8 nut 6 771034
10 #8 at washer 12 361543
11 #8 lock washer 6 771033
12 #8 x 3/4” screw 6 361545
13 Mooring ropes (not pictured) 2 990700
14 Cable ties (not pictured) 9 415038
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2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 6
1. Rest the oat on
the 4 legs of the
housing
Align
power cord
with notch Align bolt holes
with legs.
2. Lock washer goes
between bolt and at
washer. Tighten down in
4 places.
3
4
5
9
10
11
12
10
3. Turn over.
Bring bottom
screen sections
together.
8
4
5
5
6
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
4. Tighten down in 6
places to hold the
screen together.
5. Secure the bottom
screen to the oat in
3 places.
Make sure cord
is sticking out of
notch.
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2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 7
Correct anchoring
Providing strain relief on the cord helps ensure that
its weight and any strain placed on it in the water will
not cause the oat to tilt or cause damage to the unit.
If your Kasco cord comes with a strain relief kit at-
tached, attach the available link to the oat-side knot
in the mooring rope, as pictured here.
Cord Strain Relief
Use ropes to position the fountain in the desired
location in the pond or lake. Anchor the ropes or
secure them to the shoreline so that they are free of
slack, but not tight. To prevent twisting of the unit
due to motor torque, place the anchor at least 3 feet
from the oat for each foot of depth (Ex. a 6ft deep
pond would require an anchor 18ft horizontally
from the oat).
Alternate Installation
In ponds where the water level uctuates signi-
cantly, a small weight may need to be suspended at
the midpoint of the rope to take up any slack caused
by a drop in water level (1 foot of 1’’ galvanized pipe
works well). The weight should be light enough so
that the fountain can rise as the water level rises.
This weight can also help hide the anchoring ropes
by sinking them further below the surface.
UNIT INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
After unit is installed in the water, connect the pow-
er cord to a properly installed Kasco control panel
(C-85, C-95, etc.) with built-in ground fault protection
according to the instructions and electrical sche-
matics included with the panel. Follow all local and
national electrical codes for unit and control panel
installation; consult a qualied electrician or service
person if needed.
Anchor rope Secondary weight
Normal water level
Low water level
High water level
Power cord Kasco power
control box
Incorrect anchoring
Anchoring
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2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 8
REPLACEMENT PARTS
2
3
1
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
ID Description Qty Part #
1 V tube with legs 1 241005
2 Retaining clip 4 140312
3 Lock washer, 1/4” 4 840537
4 #14 x 1-1/4” long hex washer
head
4 251250
5A Prop, 2400VFX 1 240595
5B Prop, 3400VFX, 3400HVFX 1 340595
5C Prop, 4400VFX, 4400HVFX 1 440600
6A Top disk, 2400VFX 1 241025
6B Top disk, 3400VFX, 3400HVFX 1 241035
6C Top disk, 4400VFX, 4400HVFX 1 241045
7 O-ring 1 990281
8 Sealing plug 1 990280
9 Zinc, assembly 1 243475
10 1/2”-20 x 3/4” long hex head bolt 1 243405
11 Washer, 1/2” bronze internal
tooth lock
1 241024
12 Debris inger, .500 diameter shaft 1 990410
13 1/2”-20 jam nut 1 342058
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2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 9
The following maintenance procedures can be utilized to ensure many years of quality performance from
your Kasco equipment and reduce the need for more costly repair work.
PROPER INSTALLATION: Proper installation of Kasco equipment will include a power source with ground
fault protection. The control panel included with the equipment has built-in ground fault protection for
both the fountain and the lighting kit. Ground fault interrupters are a safety feature that can also alert you
to electrical leaks in the equipment. It is extremely important to test the GFCI upon installation and every
month thereafter to ensure proper operation. If you have repeat, consistent trips of the ground fault device,
the equipment should be disconnected and removed from the water. The power cord should be inspected
for damage, and you should contact your distributor or contact Kasco Marine at 715-262-4488 or sales@
kascomarine.com for further instructions. A complete list of control panels can be found in the Accessories
section of kascomarine.com.
OBSERVATION: Operating equipment should be observed on a regular basis (daily, if possible) for any
reduction or variation in performance. If a change in performance is observed, the equipment should be
disconnected from power and inspected.
WINTER STORAGE: In regions where there is signicant freezing in the wintertime, the equipment should be
removed from the water to protect it from the expansion pressure of ice. Aerators may keep some amount
of ice open, but when water is thrust into the air it can make the existing ice thicker. Storage over winter is
best in a location that is out of the sun and cool, but above 32° F. Store unit upside down if it will sit for a
long period of time to ensure continued oil lubrication of seals; units that sit upright for many months or
years have a greater likelihood of seals drying out.
CLEANING: Aerators should be removed from the water at least once per year (at the end of the season
in cold climates) to clean the exterior of the system, especially the stainless-steel motor housing (can) that
dissipates heat into the water. Any algae, calcium, or other build-up will become an insulator that blocks
heat transfer and may lead to overheating and damage. In warmer regions, the unit should be removed and
cleaned at least 2 – 3 times per year. In most cases, a power washer is sucient if the unit and algae are still
wet.
SEAL AND OIL REPLACEMENT: This is a sealed motor assembly, and seals will wear out over time (similar
to brake pads on a car). Replacement of the seals and a change of oil after three years may add longevity to
the operation of the motor, saving you the cost of more expensive repairs. In warmer climates where the
aerator runs for a majority of the year or greater, it is wise to replace seals more often.
SACRIFICIAL ANODE: A sacricial anode is supplied on the shaft of all VFX Model aerators for protection
from corrosion and electrolysis. The anode should be updated/replaced if reduced to half the original size
or if white in color. Corrosion from electrolysis is more commonly associated with saltwater or brackish wa-
ter, but as a matter of precaution, it is important to periodically check the anode in all installations (at least
every two to three months).
Seal replacement and all other repair services should be performed by Kasco Marine or a Kasco-trained Au-
thorized Repair Center. Any alterations or changes made to Kasco units by an unauthorized source will void
the warranty. This includes tampering with the unit, power cord, and/or control panel. Contact Kasco Marine
Center.
MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS
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2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 10
The following is provided to help diagnose a probable source of trouble. It is a guideline only and may not show
all causes for all problems. For additional troubleshooting help, contact your local distributor or visit kascomar-
ine.com for additional guidance.
“My Aerator trips the ground fault interrupter in the C-25, C-85, or C-95.”
This is the most common symptom of several possible problems. To correctly diagnose the problem, you will
need to collect more information. A Ground Fault Interrupter (GFCI) breaker that trips can indicate an electrical
service problem, water contamination in the unit and/or cord, bad breaker, control box problems, motor prob-
lems, etc. Try to nd out the answers to these questions before you contact Kasco to narrow down the problem:
• How long does it take to trip the breaker?
• Does it always take the same amount of time to trip?
• How many times has it tripped?
• Have there been any electrical problems in the area recently?
“My Aerator seems to run slowly.”
This can also be a symptom of several possible problems. There could be an electrical problem where the unit is
not getting the proper voltage. This could also indicate a problem with the motor of the unit, which needs to be
looked at by an Authorized Repair Center. Check that the unit is receiving the proper voltage, and, if so, contact
Kasco for further steps.
“My Aerator hums, but will not start. When I spin the prop with a stick, it starts up.”
(single phase units only) This indicates a problem with the Starting Capacitor. Each Kasco aerator is equipped
with a Starting Capacitor to get the unit going when it is rst plugged in. If it is operating but not spinning and can
be started by spinning the prop with a stick, the Starting Capacitor needs to be replaced by an Authorized Repair
Center.
“My Aerator turns itself o and back on without the timer and without tripping the GFCI breaker.”
(single phase units only) Each Kasco aerator has a Thermal Overload built in that will turn the unit o when it
overheats. Once the unit has cooled down, it will start back up. If you are noticing these symptoms, the unit
should be unplugged immediately because the Thermal Overload will continue to turn on and o until it burns
out and damages the motor. The unit should be unplugged and taken out of the water to nd the cause of the
problem. The problem could be one of many, such as, low water levels, build-up on the unit to prevent heat
dissipation, something inhibiting the free rotation of the shaft, etc. If something is caught in the unit or there is a
build-up of algae, calcium or organic matter on the unit, remove the debris and, if caught early enough, the unit
should be ne. Contact a Kasco representative before restarting the unit.
“My Aerator ow seems to uctuate and/or be less than usual.”
This can occur because of a few dierent reasons. Most of the time, this symptom is caused by the unit being
clogged with debris. A mat of weeds, many leaves, plastic bags, etc. can clog up the unit and cause it to be starved
of water. If the unit does not have the proper amount of water, the ow or pattern will uctuate up and down
and look sporadic. If you are seeing these symptoms, unplug the unit and clean away the debris that is clogging
up the screen. Another possibility if these symptoms are noticed is a chipped or damaged prop that is causing
the unit to wobble and not pump properly. When the unit is unplugged, check the prop for damages and replace
if damage is found.
“The GFCI breaker trips randomly and sporadically. Sometimes it is a few hours of operation, other times it can be
days or weeks.”
This is referred to as a Nuisance Trip. This usually occurs when the unit is installed a great distance from the
initial electric service on the property where the ground stake is placed. It is caused by either induced current in
the ground wire or a base voltage dierence due to soil pH levels. To resolve the problem, contact an electrician
and install a local grounding stake. This may eliminate the induced current and any base voltage dierences. This
problem can also be caused by a bad breaker or receptacle or having unbalanced incoming voltage lines.
TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS
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2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 11
WARRANTY
Warranty period:
2400VFX, 3400VFX, 3400HVFX, 4400VFX, 4400HVFX = 2-year Limited Warranty
Kasco® Marine, Inc. warrants this aerator to be free from defects in material or workmanship under normal
use and service (excluding ropes, power cord, and propeller). The Kasco Marine, Inc. obligation under this
warranty is limited to replacing or repairing free of charge any defective part within the warranty period
from the date of shipment. Customer shall pay shipping charges for returning the unit to Kasco or an Autho-
rized Repair Center.
THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ANY OTHER OBLI-
GATION OR LIABILITY WHATEVER ON THE PART OF KASCO MARINE, INC. AND IN NO EVENT SHALL KASCO
MARINE, INC. BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
Warranty is void if:
• The equipment is not maintained properly according to the Maintenance Recommendations supplied in
this Owner’s Manual.
• The equipment is returned for repair without the power cord
• The unit, control panel, or power cord are altered in any way from original shipment. Cuts in the power
cord are not covered under warranty.
• The equipment is damaged by unauthorized tampering.
• The sacricial zinc anode around the motor shaft shows signicant deterioration (not maintained ac-
cording to Recommendations supplied in this Owner’s Manual)
Warranty Claim Procedure: The best method for establishing warranty period is by keeping your original
receipt and registering the equipment online at kascomarine.com under the Support section.
Once warranty coverage has been established, the unit may be sent to Kasco Marine or any Kasco Autho-
rized Repair Center for evaluation and repair. See Repair section for more information regarding warranty
repair procedure.
Kasco only accepts complete assemblies for warranty repair. We must receive the power cord
and all other components with the motor as originally assembled. Kasco will bill the customer
to replace any missing parts necessary for repair. It is not necessary to return the control
panel, mount, or other parts with the motor assembly, unless specically requested by a Kasco
representative.
Please attach a repair form with the shipment. The repair form must include a name, physical
address (for return delivery of the repaired unit), daytime phone number, and an e-mail address
for correspondence regarding the warranty claim.
Any expedited shipping method for the return of the unit is at the customer’s expense. Kasco
Marine will return units repaired under warranty at our expense via ground freight within the
continental United States.
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2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 12
Most failed equipment can be repaired at substantially lower costs than replacement with new. If your
aerator requires repair and is no longer covered under warranty, please contact Kasco Marine or your local
distributor for available options. Please ship according to the instructions on the previous provided.
Kasco Marine does estimates on repairs at the request of the customer. The request for estimate should be
included in the letter that accompanies the returned unit and must include a daytime phone number and/
or e-mail address. We will contact the customer with a total after the unit has been evaluated but before the
work is performed.
All estimates that are rejected for repair will be destroyed unless otherwise directed by the customer. Re-
jected equipment can be returned at the customer’s expense for shipping and handling charges.
Billing: All non-warranty repairs will be returned and billed to the customer unless otherwise directed. Kasco
Marine accepts Visa and MasterCard credit card payments. Kasco Marine will call for credit card information
upon completion of the estimate at the customer’s request.
Please see the Support section of kascomarine.com for more information about warranty and repairs. Con-
Authorized Repair Center.
NON-WARRANTY REPAIRS
715.262.4488
Kasco Marine
800 Deere Road
Prescott, WI 54021
CONTACT US
3020379
ANSI/UL 778: 2016
Ed.6+R:22Feb2017
CSA C22.2 #108: 2014 Ed.5
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2400 - 4400 VFX AERATOR MANUAL 13
Company name
Contact name
First name Last name
Address
Street
City
State
ZIP code
Phone number
Primary Alternate
Email address
Preferred method of
contact (circle one) Phone Email
Purchase order
number
Additional product
information
Serial Number Cord Length
Information for Repair Technician
Was this unit used in a chemical treatment or wastewater
application? (circle one) Yes No
Additional notes
Kasco Marine
800 Deere Road
Prescott, WI 54021
Attn: Repairs
• Kasco requires that all equipment sent for repair MUST be
accompanied by this form and marked to Repairs attention.
• Unit should be cleaned before shipping.
• Kasco is NOT responsible for shipping damage accrued in
return shipment.
• It is the responsibility of the customer to ship and pay freight
to Kasco.
REPAIR CONTACT FORM
Note: Contact information should be that of the person or company to contact for repair information.
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