Dock De-Icers Made for Alberta's Shallow Shorelines
Long docks, gentle slopes and months of prairie cold. Put the pump where the water is deep enough to do its job.
Why Alberta docks are different
For families from Edmonton, Red Deer and Calgary, summer means Sylvan Lake, Pigeon Lake, Gull Lake, Wabamun Lake, Lac Ste. Anne or Buffalo Lake. Many of these shorelines shelve out slowly, so docks run long and the water right beside them can be surprisingly shallow.
That matters in winter. Ice builds thick on prairie lakes, and swings between deep cold and milder spells keep it working against docks and lifts. A de-icer only protects them well when it sits in enough water.
Put the pump where the depth is
An Arbrux pump does its best de-icing work 4 to 6 feet down, where it can hold a 40-foot circle open. On a gradual Alberta shoreline, that spot may be at the end of the dock or beyond it.
Short dock, steeper drop-off
The water is deep enough right beside the dock. The Dock Bundle mounts the pump directly to it.
Long dock, gradual slope
The depth you need is at or near the end. Mount the Dock Bundle at the far end of the dock.
Shallow all the way out
The right depth is out past the dock. The Lake Bottom Bundle is a free-standing frame that can sit exactly there.
Not sure which describes you? Our post on de-icers in shallow water helps you work it out.
Busy ice needs clear signs
Ice fishing, skating and sledding draw crowds onto Alberta lakes all winter. Wherever you keep water open, post visible signs on shore and on the dock, and let your neighbours know.
Summer on the lake
Warm, calm water near shore can turn stagnant by August. Run as a circulator, the same pump keeps water moving around the dock and clears a 60-foot diameter of lake bottom. Always follow Alberta Health Services advisories for your lake.
Alberta FAQ
My dock sits in about three feet of water. Can I still use a de-icer?
Possibly, with careful placement. Measure along and past the dock, then call us with the numbers.
How much power does it draw?
The pump is 1/2 horsepower and runs on 115 volts at 10 amps. Your winter cost depends on runtime and your rate. See How Much Does a Dock De-Icer Cost to Run All Winter?
Can it help a boat lift that stays in?
In many cases, yes. Read Can a Dock De-Icer Protect a Boat Lift Through Winter? and check your lift maker's winter guidance.
Built for prairie winters
Arbrux pumps ship anywhere in Canada, carry UL and CSA certification and come with a 2-year warranty.
