We will go over the many types of pond pump, what each of these pumps is used for, and the reasons why you might require them in your pond. In this comprehensive article, we cover a wide range of topics, including how to build your own pond from scratch or improve the one you already have, as well as providing helpful hints and suggestions for specific products.
Figure: Koi fish in a pond
The primary reason for having a pond pump is so that the water may be filtered while also preventing the water from becoming still. Insufficient aeration and/or circulation of the water are typically to blame when foul-smelling and slimy water is present. The installation of oxygenating aquatic plants is one method for resolving this issue; however, in most cases, fish keepers will choose to install some kind of pump in the pond instead.
The water in the pond is circulated by pond pumps, which typically push the water through a filtration system. This system can be as straightforward as a reed bed or a tiny box filter, or it can be as elaborate as an Evolution Aqua Nexus Pond Pump or a drum filter.
Pond Pumps are considered to be recirculation pumps, which means that they do not contribute any fresh water to the pond while they are used. Instead, they do something that involves repeatedly moving the water about in the pond. They may be found in a number of configurations, such as a wet-mounted, bigger solar pump or a mains-powered, wet-mounted pond pump that is considerably larger.
There are a few distinct kinds of pond pumps, and each of them is designed to accomplish something unique. This section will explain what each variety is as well as the rationale for its application in fish ponds.
Pond pumps are an adaptable type of pump that may transport significant quantities of water from Point A to Point B. This can be wet mounted, which means that it is placed in the bottom of a pond and moves water from the pond into a filtration system; this is typically referred to as a “pump fed system.” Alternatively, this can be dry mounted, which means that it is placed outside of the pond and works in conjunction with a filtration system and a bottom drain to return water to the pond; this is typically referred to as a “gravity fed system.”
There are several applications for pond pumps, including operating as waterfall pumps, operating independently, or working in combination with filters.
The majority of ponds require the installation of some sort of air pump (and aquariums). Air pumps add a much-required source of oxygen to your pond and, in certain cases, act as filtration systems. These systems ensure that your fish continue to enjoy excellent health and that the water purity is maintained.
All aquatic creatures require a specific quantity of oxygen. Ponds run the risk of running out of oxygen during the summer months and when there is lightning in the area. To maintain the health and happiness of your fish during these periods, it is important to ensure that the pond contains as much oxygen as is humanly feasible. This is a precautionary measure.
Read the comprehensive information that we have posted on our blog if you are interested in finding out more about how to properly care for the fish in your pond, or get in contact with us right away for expert guidance.
Feature pumps are tiny model pond pumps. They perform the exact same function as their pond pump equivalents, but often have a considerably more compact physical footprint and move far less water than traditional pond pumps.
Feature pumps typically have a flow rate range of between 400 and 1500 liters per hour (LPH), and, as their name implies, they are intended to be used in combination with water features. Because of their diminutive size, they may be discretely concealed within the water sump of the features.
There is a subcategory of pond pumps known as pond fountain pumps. These pumps are usually wet-mounted (i.e. installed under water in the pond). In most cases, fountain pumps have a finer enclosing cage to prevent big particulates from flowing through the fountain (which might cause blockages), and in other cases, the pumps also feature an interior fine filter sponge.
To accommodate a wide range of pond configurations, fountain pumps always come packaged with a fountain-style kit that includes stems and heads that can be switched out and that can be extended as needed. There is a possibility that fountain pumps will contain a diverter valve that will enable some of the water to be sent simultaneously in the direction of a waterfall and filtration system.
An internal impeller that is driven by an electric motor is responsible for the movement of water in pond pumps. Water is sucked into the pump while the impeller rotates, and it is then pushed out of the exit at the end of the process.
The power of the electric motor in conjunction with the size of the pump’s impeller will be the primary determinants of the volume of water that is pushed through the pump. Pumps are ranked according to their capacity, which is often measured in liters per hour (LPH). The typical range of sizes for pond pumps begins at 3,000 LPH and goes higher from there.
Air pumps include an electric motor at its core. This turns a diaphragm to provide high pressure and flow rates while only moving a limited volume of air. This is often directed through an airline to an aerated bottom drain or air stone(s), which results in the formation of large plumes of oxygen-rich, turbulence-filled water.
An internal impeller, which is powered by an electric motor and rotates, draws water through the pump. It then pushes it out of the fountain in precisely the same manner as a pond pump does. Fountain pumps, feature pumps, and solar pumps are all examples of this type of pump.
The magnitude of the system is the primary differentiator in this case. Although often on a lesser scale, certain fountain pumps meant for bigger ponds may be comparable in size or even larger than pond pumps. In general, however, pumps of this sort are on the smaller side.
Standard fishponds and nature ponds that house fish such as goldfish do not necessary need a pump. If ponds are stocked with an abundance of pond plants that are effective in oxygenating the water. In any other circumstance, ponds, however, will need a pump that feeds water to a filtration system in order to function properly. Imagine that this is the heart of the mechanism that keeps the ponds and all of its inhabitants alive.
In addition to this, filtration systems and pond pumps may work together to power fountains and waterfalls. This results in the production of oxygenated water for the fish as well as increased water turbulence, which assists the filter in more effectively cleaning the pond.
As a further layer of defense, we suggest installing an air pump in the pond in the majority of cases. This is a precautionary measure. Even while they are not absolutely required, they are a pleasant addition during the warmer summer months when ponds might become oxygen-starved due to the lack of rainfall. Additionally, air pumps will provide additional water turbulence. This will aid the filtration system in performing its function in the most efficient manner possible.
When putting in a pond pump, the first thing to think about is where to put it. Does the pump:
When making this choice, it’s important to think about how well the pond pump will work in that spot. In wet-mounted situations, pond pumps should be at the deepest part of the pond. This is so they can push any debris that has settled to the filtration system.
Once this pump is set up, it’s time to work on the pipes in the pond. Think about the best, neatest, and least expensive way to run the pipe. This could be a pressure pipe, a pipe for solvents or waste, or a pipe that bends. Use jubilee clips or solvent cement to make sure that all connections are well sealed. Check the pipes to see if there are any problems that could happen in the future. A pond pump mounted in the water will need to be pulled out to service it. Keep this in mind.
Now we’ll go on to the very last stage, which is to connect the pump to the electrics. When it comes to this particular component, we strongly advise hiring a professional electrician. Pumps for ponds can be hardwired directly into a multi-port external grade IP-rated switch box. Or you connect them into an external grade IP-rated plug box. Both of these options are available.
After you have completed all of the processes outlined above. It will be time to switch on the electricity so you can start enjoying your pond or water feature. Before doing so, you should double check to make sure there are no leaks that might cause problems. Installing pond pumps should be done with caution and attention to these three essential considerations:
