Select the best Garden Pond Pump for your specific needs
A pond pump is an essential piece of equipment for most ponds. The solids-handling pump will move water, aiding circulation and will deliver dirty water to the filter, a fountain-pump will move water through a fountain or run a waterfall or some other similar feature. In both cases, a pump will help oxygenate the water.
A stagnant pond creates ideal conditions for algae, duckweed and the accumulation of noxious gases.. The right pump is vital to having a healthy, beautiful garden pond. Our Garden Pump Guide can help you get started.
Garden Pond Pump Guide - Pump Basics
Pond pumps are sized in LPH (litres per hour). To determine which size pump is required, you first need to calculate the volume of water in the pond.
The equation is:
Average pond length in metres x average pond width in metres = surface area of pond in m2(square metres)
Then multiply the surface area by the average depth x 1000 = Volume in litres
Desired flow. How much water do you need to move per minute/hour?
Head pressure. What is the head height (the vertical distance from the water's surface to the fountainhead nozzle or waterfall)? The greater the head height and the higher the water is required to spray, the higher the flow rate needed.
Types of Garden Pond Pumps
For a pond novice, selecting an appropriate pump can seem overwhelming, but we will try to make it a bit easier for you, so you can make a decision that you'll be happy with for a long time.
There are a few garden pond pumps. Each type offers features suited to different applications.
Submersible Solids-handling Filter and Waterfall Pond Pumps
Most solids-handling pond pumps are submersible – they operate below the water's surface. These pumps stay out of sight, are silent, aesthetically pleasing, and are designed to be fully submerged under water. Submersible pond pumps offer a quieter way to circulate the water of a small and medium-size pond effectively and are usually used in conjunction with a filter as part of a filter-system, or for running a waterfall. Some submersible pond pump can also be operated externally (dry mounted). Generally speaking, the better quality pumps are more energy efficient.
They range in size from 50 to 50,000 LPH and provide excellent water-movement. The pump motor is enclosed in a casing to protect it from the water. Submersible pond pumps can last a long time when maintained regularly.
Internal pond pumps are available in two types:
Magnetic drive - here, the motor is fully enclosed, so the impeller (the part of a pump that moves water) and the motor are not directly connected. Instead, magnets are used to turn on the impeller;
Direct drive - these pumps use a drive shaft directly connected to the motor to turn on the impeller.
Fountain and Feature Pumps
These pumps are used as either stand-alone pumps (separate to any filter system) and may be used in conjunction with a fountain spray or jet to create a decorative display or for use with statuary. They are not designed for moving solids and so have much smaller holes/slits in their housing to prevent fountain sprays from blocking with debris.
What kind of a Garden Pond Pump should I choose?
Filter Pond Pumps
Investing in a solids-handling filter pump is essential as the main pond pump. This will give your pond water a continuous and uninterrupted run through your filter system. These pond pumps can be helpful as they will clear the waste and particulates to ensure the water is clear.
Combined Pond Pumps and Filters
If you want to reduce the need for more than one device, a combined pump and filter(plug and play), you will benefit from a combined pond pump and filter. These fits nicely in small ponds, providing a convenient water pond moving solution. They also have integrated ultraviolet clarification, but remember these are entry level and only for small ponds.
Fountain Pumps
If you're looking for a way to create a peaceful and therapeutic atmosphere in your outdoor living space, look no further than fountain pumps. They run quietly and efficiently, never getting in the way of relaxation by ensuring water is effectively provided to a fountain feature or ornamental statue, or both.
Waterfall Pumps
If you want to add the soothing sound of a waterfall or stream to your backyard, you'll need a pump with a high flow rate and head height. Waterfalls and streams can be powered by either submersible or external pumps.
Please note that depending on the size of your pond, the type of water feature and pond pump you opt for, and whether fish are present in your pond, you may need to consider a water filter in conjunction with a pond pump.
Garden Pond Pump Guide - Conclusion
Choosing a pond water pump that's right for your pond is crucial if you intend to maintain your water clear and clean, so take a bit of time to research and find the ideal one. Whether you are purchasing a new pond water pump or replacing an existing one, investing in high-quality equipment will give you years of efficient service is essential. Doing that will guarantee your pump is running at peak performance and provide you with clean, healthy water.
We hope this article has helped you understand the different types of Garden Pond Pump options available, so you can decide which pump is suitable for your needs.
Still not sure? Do not worry!
FishLife- Local Pond Specialist serving Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire, Berkshire and Wiltshire is here to help!
After all, we understand that not everyone is a pond pump expert and picking the right pump can be tricky. There are so many types and sizes of pumps on the market that it can be hard to know which one is right for you. That is why when you get in touch with FishLife Pond Services - an Oase Authorised Installer, you can rest assured you get advice from a Garden Pond Pump Specialist.
Thanks to our extensive experience and knowledge in the pond industry, we have the expertise to help you choose the right garden pond pump for your needs. Whether you're looking for a new pond pump or need advice on maintenance, we can help. Get in touch today.
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