Start a de-icer before the water surface freezes, generally once water temperature approaches the high 30s to low 40s degrees F, so open water is established before ice forms rather than fighting an already-frozen surface. Remove the unit promptly after spring ice-out, clean and inspect it, and store it dry until the following season.
Seasonal Checklist
Fall startup: Install and power on before ice forms so the unit can maintain open water rather than trying to break existing ice.
Spring removal: Remove promptly once ice-out is complete to reduce wear and theft/vandalism exposure.
Cleaning and inspection: Rinse the unit, inspect the propeller for nicks or wrap, and check the zinc anode.
Off-season storage: Store dry, indoors if possible, out of direct sun and away from rodents that may chew cord insulation.
Author: Jon -- M.S. Hydrology, Principal Hydrologist.