Dock De-Icer Mounting Methods and Pipe Requirements
A Kasco de-icer mounts one of two ways: suspended on ropes, or fixed to a pipe using a dock mount kit. The Universal mount kit takes 1 inch nominal pipe. The Industrial mount kit takes 1.5 inch nominal pipe, 5 feet long or greater. Both kits include the upper and lower mount assemblies and both are rated for units up to 1 HP. Neither kit includes the pipe, which you supply.
Rope suspension
Rope suspension is the simpler of the two approaches and the one most seasonal dock owners use. The unit hangs from two lines tied off to pilings, cleats, a dock frame, or a boat.
Spread the lines at least 8 feet apart. This one matters. A de-icer has high starting torque, and suspension lines set too close together can twist up when the motor starts, which can damage the power cord. Kasco specifies a minimum of 8 feet between the lines.
Tie each rope with a secure knot so the unit hangs vertically before you power it on. If you are de-icing a boat in tidal water, tying the de-icer to the boat rather than the dock lets the two rise and fall together, which holds your depth through the tide cycle.
Dock and piling mounts
A pipe mount holds the unit in a fixed position and makes it easier to lower, angle, and reposition without getting in the water. Both kits are stainless steel and mount to a dock, piling, wall, or other in-water structure.
| Mount | Kit | Pipe (customer supplied) | Rated for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Universal Mount | 243485 | 1 inch nominal diameter | Units up to 1 HP |
| Industrial Mount | 243484 | 1.5 inch nominal diameter, 5 ft or longer | Units up to 1 HP |
The upper mount can be secured horizontally or vertically, so the same kit works on a dock deck, a piling face, or a seawall. Buy the pipe locally and cut it to the length your water depth calls for.
Directing the flow
Both mounts are available with an optional Simple Swivel bracket that lets the unit rotate so you can aim the discharge where you want the open water. The Universal swivel is kit 243478 and the Industrial swivel is kit 243479.
If you are running a rope suspension instead, you can angle the unit by moving one of the suspension lines rather than adding hardware. That method is covered on the depth and angle page.
Which mount fits your installation?
- Seasonal dock, easy access, one unit. Rope suspension is usually enough, provided you can get 8 feet between the tie-off points.
- Fixed dock or piling you want to set and leave. The Universal mount on 1 inch pipe covers most residential installations.
- Commercial dock, deeper water, or a long pipe run. The Industrial mount takes the heavier 1.5 inch pipe and is specified for pipe 5 feet and longer.
- You need to redirect flow through the season. Add the Simple Swivel bracket to either mount.