Kasco VFX vs Scott DA-20 | Pond Aerator Comparison

The Kasco VFX and the Scott Aerator DA-20 are two of the most popular aerating fountains for ponds. Both float on the surface, both throw a high-volume spray that adds oxygen and keeps water moving, and both start in the same price range. The differences are in horsepower range, warranty, winter use, and pond size, and those are what usually decide which one fits your pond.

One thing to know up front: neither unit is a bottom-diffused aerator. Both are floating surface aerators. If your pond is deeper than about 6 to 8 feet and your main goal is oxygen at the bottom, read the section on bottom-diffused aeration below before you choose.

Quick Comparison

What They Have in Common

Both units work the same basic way: a submersible motor on a float pulls in pond water and throws it into the air, where it picks up oxygen before falling back to the surface. That spray keeps the top of the pond moving, breaks up stagnant water, and gives you a visible display.

• Both float and are anchored in place, so installation is mostly a matter of positioning the unit and running the power cord.
• Both come in multiple horsepower sizes and cord lengths, so you can match the unit to your pond and outlet location.
• Both deliver the most aeration near the surface, which makes them a great fit for shallow to moderately deep ponds and decorative settings.

Where the Kasco VFX Stands Out

• More horsepower at the top end. The VFX goes up to 5 HP, so it covers larger ponds, roughly 1/2 acre up to 3 acres and beyond depending on the model.
• Works in shallow water. The smaller models run in as little as 15 inches of water.
• A tall, clean vertical spray. The single high-flow pattern is built for both aeration and visual impact, from about 5 feet high on the 1/2 HP model to 9 feet on the 5 HP.
• Light kit ready. Kasco WaterGlow LED color-changing lights can be added now or later for a nighttime display.

See all sizes and specs on the Kasco VFX Aerating Fountain page.

Where the Scott Aerator DA-20 Stands Out

• A longer warranty. The DA-20 carries a 5-year motor warranty, compared with 2 to 3 years on the VFX.
• Built to stay in year-round. Scott designs the DA-20 to be left in the water through winter, and ice will not damage it.
• Made in the USA. The DA-20 is engineered, manufactured, and assembled in the United States.
• Smaller starting size. It starts at 1/3 HP, a good fit for smaller ponds that don't need a 1/2 HP unit.
• Clears surface debris. Its flow helps push floating debris and keep the surface clean.

See all sizes and options on the Scott Aerator DA-20 page.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose the Kasco VFX if:

• Your pond is on the larger side and you may need 2 HP or 5 HP
• You want a tall vertical spray as a focal point
• Your pond is shallow and you need a unit that runs in 15 to 20 inches of water
• You plan to add color-changing lights

Choose the Scott Aerator DA-20 if:

• You want the longest motor warranty
• You'd rather leave the unit in the water all winter
• Buying American-made matters to you
• Your pond is small enough for a 1/3 HP unit

If your pond falls in the 1/2 to 1 HP range, either unit will do the job well, and the decision usually comes down to warranty, winter use, and the look of the spray. Call us at 888-825-6214 and we'll help you match the horsepower to your pond.

Do You Need a Fountain or Bottom-Diffused Aeration?

Aerating fountains like the VFX and DA-20 oxygenate and circulate the upper part of the pond. In deeper ponds, especially those deeper than about 6 to 8 feet, the water near the bottom can stay low in oxygen, which leads to muck buildup and stress on fish.

For those ponds, a bottom-diffused aeration system moves water from the bottom up and circulates the whole pond. Many pond owners run a fountain for looks and surface movement alongside a bottom diffuser for deep-water oxygen. Our guide to pond aerators vs. fountains covers the differences in more detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Kasco VFX and Scott DA-20 bottom-diffused aerators?

No. Both are floating surface aerators, sometimes called aerating fountains or display aerators. They aerate by spraying water into the air at the surface. Bottom-diffused systems use an on-shore compressor and diffusers on the pond floor.

Which has the better warranty?

The Scott Aerator DA-20, with a 5-year motor warranty. The Kasco VFX carries 2 years on 1/2 to 1 HP models and 3 years on 2 and 5 HP models.

Can I leave them in the pond over winter?

Scott designs the DA-20 to stay in the water year-round, and ice will not damage it. For the VFX, follow Kasco's owner's manual for winter care and storage.

Which one is better for a large pond?

The Kasco VFX offers more horsepower, up to 5 HP, and Kasco rates it for ponds up to 3 acres and beyond. For large, deep ponds, also consider pairing a fountain with bottom-diffused aeration.

Can I add lights?

Yes. The VFX is ready for Kasco WaterGlow LED lighting, and we carry light kits for Scott Aerator fountains as well.

Compare Models

• Shop the Kasco VFX Aerating Fountain
• Shop the Scott Aerator DA-20
• How much aeration does a pond need?

Still not sure which is right for your pond? Call us at 888-825-6214 and talk to one of our pond experts.