By: Kasco Staff | May 21, 2026
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As winter fades and spring and summer approach, routine maintenance is one thing that shouldn’t be overlooked. For Kasco De-icers, this means proper off-season care while the units are not in use. For AquatiClear Circulators, it means making sure your unit is clean, inspected, and ready for months of dependable operation during peak shoreline season. A little preventative maintenance now can go a long way toward extending the life of your equipment and helping it perform at its best when you need it most.

Routine Cleaning Matters

The best thing you can do to prolong the lifespan of your Kasco unit is regular cleaning. At minimum, it should be cleaned once per year, though harsher environments or year-round operation may require quarterly or even monthly cleanings. Cleaning can be done utilizing a stiff-bristle brush or by lightly pressure washing your product. If you do pressure wash it, avoid spraying directly where the power cord and motor shaft exit the motor housing.

Over time, debris and buildup such as calcium deposits, weed growth, zebra mussels, and barnacles can accumulate on the stainless steel motor can. This buildup may cause the unit to run hotter than intended, potentially shortening motor life and reducing efficiency. This is why routine cleaning is so important.

Proper Off-Season Storage

When storing your unit for an extended period, Kasco recommends storing it propeller-down (stainless steel can up) in a shed or garage. This storage position helps keep the internal seal around the motor shaft lubricated by the unit’s oil, preventing it from drying out during long-term storage. Many customers also find it helpful to place the unit in a 5-gallon bucket to keep the motor and power cord organized and protected until the next season.

Inspect the Sacrificial Zinc Anode

During cleaning and inspection, make sure to check the sacrificial anode located on the motor shaft beneath the propeller. The anode is designed to corrode over time to protect the motor and metal components from corrosion. It should be replaced once it has worn down to approximately half of its original size.

While inspecting the shaft area, also examine the propeller to make sure there aren’t any nicks or cracks. Damaged propellers reduce efficiency and can place unnecessary strain on the motor during operation

Check the Power Cord

Off-season maintenance is also a great time to inspect the power cord for any damage. Damage here could stem from nicks from weed whippers, animal chewing, rubbing on sharp rocks, fishing hooks, etc. Any visible cord damage should be addressed before putting the unit back into operation.

Don’t Forget the Control Panel

If your system uses a control panel, reinstallation season is the perfect opportunity to inspect that as well. Over the off-season, control panels may experience moisture intrusion, dirt buildup, insect nests or debris. Using compressed air or a vacuum to carefully clean the enclosure can help ensure years of reliable service. As always, electrical inspections and maintenance should only be performed by qualified individuals. If you are unsure, consult a certified electrical contractor.

When Professional Service Is Recommended

Some maintenance and repairs are best left to trained professionals. If your unit is damaged, tripping a GFCI protected circuit, humming, or not operating properly, we highly recommend shipping it to Kasco or one of our authorized repair centers for service. We also generally recommend proactive professional service every 3-5 years to maximize product life and performance. Additional troubleshooting resources, repair information, and authorized repair center locations can be found at Kasco Repair Centers.

If you have questions about storing or maintaining your Kasco equipment, contact us at support@kascomarine.com or call 715-262-4488.