Pumps, Filters and Clarifiers
Pumps, Filters and Clarifiers
Garden Ponds – Pumps & Filters & Clarifiers
PUMPS
When purchasing a garden pond pump you will need to decide on what function you want the pump to undertake. Will it be used to remove fish waste from the water? Will it be used to run a water feature? You can purchase separate pumps for each purpose rather than the more specialist filter pump. Use one to run the fountain and another for the filter. Although this adds to the cost it is probably the best method of using pumps and filtration systems.
To purchase the correct pump for your garden pond you need to calculate the volume of water you will be pumping and then choose a pump capable of circulating your water at the height of your filter or water feature. If cost is important to you compare the running costs of lots of pumps as the cheapest to purchase may not be the cheapest in running costs. You will need to investigate the flow rates as well as these can drop significantly where there low running costs equals less lifting power. The old adage ‘you get what you pay for’ was never more true than with garden pond pumps.
Filters
UV Lights
Ultraviolet lights are invaluable to keep your pond water clear. Also known as clarifiers they will help in the fight against green water algae. Green water algae is not harmful to your fish but it does make it difficult to see the fish in your garden pond and looks unsightly. You need to maintain a natural balance in your pond and this is not easy to achieve in small garden ponds. It may mean you have to resort to using chemicals but the best way to achieve the clear water you want is, in my opinion, by the use of Ultraviolet light Clarifiers.
The UV unit is submerged in the pond water and as the water passes through the housing it is exposed to the light and this breaks down and causes damage to the cells of the algae. The algae can then pass through the filter system or back into the water.
The power of the UV light is important in achieving the result of clear water and the larger the pond the larger the light you will need. Be wary of the guidelines issued by manufacturers of UV lights as the recommendations usually apply to ‘ideal conditions’. As with pond pumps buy the best UV light you can afford and you will get the results you require.
Backyard Ponds is a community blog set-up to answer pond related questions.