While various types of aerating devices are being used to destroy the thermal stratifications in lakes, the proper design of such systems is the key to the successful and efficient mixing of the target water volume. Here, the flow characteristics of an intermittent hydraulic jet circulator (IHJC), which is commonly used in Korea, are investigated by using model experiments. In order for the flow to be intermittent and sluggish a proper divider must be employed in the air chamber and the volume of the chamber should be larger than ($\rhoi$ D$^3$/12) where D is cylinder diameter. By modifying the configuration of the air chamber and lower guide the favorable instantaneousair discharge can be achieved. The exit flow velocity is approximately 0.35sqrt{( ho _c - ho _d)gD/ ho _c} slower than the leading sluggish bubble speed, where $ ho_c$ and $ ho_d$ are densities of water and bubble, respectively. Based on the experimental observations, a simple mathematical model is proposed to predict the performance of IHJC. The model predicts quantitatively accurate exit velocity compared to experimental measurements. Obtained information is believed to provide key parameters for better systematic design of JHJC both maximizing the effectiveness and enhancing the efficiency.