Understanding Pond Pumps and Filters
There are many different types of pond pump available and choosing one is often confusing. This guide explains how to calculate the requirements of your water feature, and how to choose a pond pump to suit your needs.
A water feature creates a stunning focal point in any garden. The
oasis of calm which a pond offers is unrivalled by any other garden
feature. With thousands of exciting water features to choose from, it
can be easy to forget the importance of a pump. But it is the pump which
keeps your water running and keeps your feature looking stunning.
If
you have no background knowledge of pond pumps, you may find yourself
overwhelmed by a wider choice than you first imagined. Different pond
pumps perform different tasks, which is why there are so many. Filter
pumps are sometimes called solids-handling pumps because they move solid
waste to a pond filter, and are therefore ideal for keeping ponds
clean. If a fountain or water feature is connected to a pond filter pump
it is likely that the nozzles will become blocked with this dirt, so
use a specialist fountain pump for these applications.
Pond pumps
are usually categorised by the volume of water which they can turn over
in an hour, so only purchase from a retailer which has these statistics
available. Work out the volume of water in your pond by calculating
width x length x depth x 1000 (use metres for all measurements) and aim
for a pump which will circulate this pond volume around every two hours.
For example, if you have a pond which measures 3 metres x 3 metres x
0.5 metres, you have 4.5 x 1000, so 4500 litre water volume. Therefore, a
pump like the Aquamax ECO 3500 will be more than adequate, as this
turns over 3600 litres per hour.
Opt for a pond pump which
circulates your required water volume at least every 2 hours, but do not
choose a pump too much more powerful than you need if you want to save
on power consumption. You may also want to compare the power consumption
of various pumps and only buy one which comes with a guarantee for
peace-of-mind. Your pond pump will come with instructions for
installation.
For your pond filter, look for a maximum flow rate
which is the same, or higher, than your pond pumps turn over. Pond
filter kits come with a water pump, filter box and UV clarifier, making
the filtration system easier to purchase if you require both a pond pump
and a filter. It is always advisable to buy the largest diameter
flexible hose to connect your filter.
For fountain displays, you
will need to calculate the volume of water in the same way. Your
fountain should not reach over half your ponds narrowest point to avoid
water splashing around the pond in windy conditions. Predetermined
fountain sets make choosing fountain pump equipment even easier.
For
more information on choosing a pond or fountain pump, contact a
specialist pond pump supplier. Online retailers offer a wide range of
products and are able to offer help and advice by phone to help you
choose the right filtration system for you. By choosing your pond pump
and filter carefully, you can enjoy a water feature which is clean and
beautiful for many years to come.
