Huge Advantages Of Pond Pumps

Pond pumps are essential items for your garden pond as they help to keep the pond clean and healthy by keeping the water moving which helps to reduce the bacteria in the water as well as the buildup of algae and other toxins. Keeping your pond clean is an essential part of the maintenance especially if you have fish and plants living in the pond as the pond pumps also ensure the circulation of oxygen which is necessary for the fish and plant life. A pump is an important part of the pond system and it is important to choose the correct one that is powerful enough to create the correct amount of water movement depending on the size of your pond and the amount of water you have in the pond.

What Are The Best Pond Pumps To Choose?

There are basically two types of pond pumps to choose from, submersible and external. The submersible models are the smaller of the two and they are generally the best choice if you have a small pond. The larger external models are more suitable for larger ponds and they need to be mounted outside or nearby the pond. In order to calculate the size of pond pumps that you need you need to measure the amount of water in gallons that you have in the pond. The pond pumps use a unit of measurement called GPH which stands for gallons per hour, so the pump needs to have the correct amount of GPH depending on how many gallons of water you have in the pond. The GPH of the pump should be at least half of the gallons of water, so for example if you have 500 gallons of water the pump should have at least a 250 GPH rating. This is the ideal way to determine if you are able to use a small submersible pump or if you will need a larger external model.

Submersible Pond Pumps

The small and compact submersible pond pumps are great for smaller ponds and because you can install them in the water they are a lot quieter than the external pumps. The submersible pumps are specially sealed and waterproof to ensure that they can function properly under water and they require very little maintenance, all you have to do is occasionally ensure that the pump doesn’t get blocked up with debris and leaves and it should work correctly without requiring any other maintenance. The smaller pond pumps are available as electrically or solar powered so you can choose the best one to suit your preference.

Electrical or Solar Powered Pond Pumps?

Thanks to the recent advance in solar powered technology it is now possible to install a solar powered pump in your pond. The solar powered pumps come complete with a solar panel that you can place in a sunny location in the garden to ensure it gets enough sunshine to power the pump. The main advantage of solar power is that it doesn’t cost anything to use, so if you are looking for a way to reduce your energy bills a solar powered pump is the best choice for you. The solar pond pumps operate by converting sunlight into energy and if you live in a sunny location you can take advantage of the sun and also save some money. Solar power is also a renewable energy and it is more environmentally friendly than conventional electrical pumps. Another great advantage of a solar powered pump is that you don’t need any power outlets near your pond, so this can save you running extension cords outside or installing power outlets around the pond, as this can also be expensive.

External Pond Pumps

If you have a large pond that also has a fountain or other water features then the more powerful external pump is the best choice. The pump will be required to move more water especially if you have a waterfall so if you choose a larger model make sure it is powerful enough to supply the necessary energy to keep the water features functioning properly. You can also use a separate pump for each water feature as this will guarantee the correct amount of water is pumped through the waterfall. The main disadvantage of the external pumps is that they need to be placed near the pond so they are quite visible and also they can also produce some noise while in operation. You can also use a separate pump for each water feature

Pond pumps are necessary items for your pond but they will also ensure that you enjoy your pond more by keeping it clean and free from debris. Another great advantage of the pond pumps is that they also reduce the chances of mosquitoes spawning in the pond thanks to the constant water movement that they create which will help reduce the amount of mosquitoes in your garden during the summer. The pond pumps will also keep the water clear so you can enjoy the fish and plant life in your pond as they will stay clearly visible because of the clean water. Your pond will also stay healthier as the plants and fish will thrive because of the oxygen circulation that the pond pumps create that will give you the perfect garden pond for you and your family to enjoy throughout the summer during the warm sunny days.

Pond Pumps

Solar Powered Water Pump Q and A

Using a solar powered water pump for your pond can be a convenient and cost-effective way to keep the water in your pond clean and flowing. For most people it will be the convenience of not needing electricity in the garden that will help them decide to choose the solar option and best of all you get the electricity for free! Also being renewable energy it is more environmentally friendly.

So how does a solar powered water pump work?

• It’s basically the same as an electrical pump but instead you have to plug it into a solar panel. The solar powered water pump panel converts the suns UV (ultraviolet) energy into electricity through its PV (photovoltaic) cells.

How can it help the pond?

• A solar powered water pump will help the oxygen to circulate in the pond. This is essential for fish and plants that live in the pond and because the water is constantly moving this also prevents mosquitoes from breeding in the water. It can also help reduce the build-up of algae in the pond.

What are the advantages of a solar pump?

• It’s free to run

• It will last longer than an electric pump

• It’s environmentally friendly

How about the disadvantages?

• Solar pumps are more expensive that electric pumps

• They have a lower flow capacity

• Without battery back-up it will only work when the sun is shining

Do solar pumps require a lot of maintenance?

• Generally speaking no, but if you notice the water is not flowing as normal you should open the pump and clean any dirt you see around the filter. Also the solar panel should be cleaned regularly ensuring it is dust free and clear of objects that might interrupt the sunlight.

It is possible to buy the solar powered water pump and the solar panel together, this way you can be sure that the panel is well matched to the pump and can supply it with the required amount of energy.

A solar powered water pump is a worthwhile investment for your pond and it will keep the water healthy and clean and although the initial purchase may be more expensive you will save on you energy bills in the long run.

Solar Powered Water Pump

How To Pick The Best Pond Filters.

Pond filters are essential accessories for your garden pond. They will help to keep the water in your pond clean and clear and remove unwanted debris and bacteria from the water. A filter is necessary especially if you have fish and plants in your pond as it can help to reduce the amounts of algae and other excess pollutants produced by the fish and plants from the water. Keeping the water clean and filtered is also very important for the health of the fish and plants and it will enable them to live longer and also keep your pond looking great at the same time.

There are many Pond Filters available and choosing the right one for your pond may seem difficult, but they can basically be broken down into three types:

• Mechanical Pond Filters; a mechanical filter will act like a barrier to trap debris and other foreign bodies in the water, they can also help get rid of bacteria and germs and are therefore ideal if you have fish in your pond. The water is forced through the filter by means of a pump and they are available as submersible or external types. The submersible types are great for smaller ponds but the external models are more powerful and better for large ponds.

• Biological filters; a biological filter can also be used along with a mechanical filter and normally involves putting stones or gravel in the pond, the stones and gravel attract healthy bacteria that will remove ammonia from the pond and help to purify the water, although not absolutely essential it can help to reduce germs that can harm the fish and plants.

• Ultraviolet filter; an ultraviolet filter can help to reduce algae growth in the pond, too much algae is not good for the pond and it also makes it difficult to see the other plants and fish properly. It’s a great option for keeping the water clear and keeping everything in the pond visible.

A combination of all three types of pond filters is the best solution and will guarantee you the best filtration possible which will keep the eco-system in the pond in perfect condition by reducing the bacteria, pollutants and algae and creating the perfect condition for your fish and plants to thrive in. However a combination of a mechanical and biological filter will be more affordable and should be enough in most cases to provide sufficient filtration.

There are also waterfall filters available which not only provide filtration, they create movement in the pond water which can also help the process and they can make the pond look more attractive.

Pond filters are the best way to keep your pond healthy and looking great.

Pond Filters

Before Purchasing Pond Pumps

A pond can transform the look and atmosphere of any garden, even installing a small pond with a simple fountain or waterfall can turn your garden into a more beautiful and tranquil place to enjoy with the help of pond pumps. The sound of gently flowing water has a very soothing and calming effect and you can create a relaxing area in which to unwind after a stressful day or week at work. With summer approaching there has never been a better time to consider installing a pond and you may want to consider what pond pumps are available at the moment as these are an essential part of any pond system.

You can determine which pump you need by roughly measuring the amount of water in your pond and if you are planning to add other water features you need to take that into consideration too as a more powerful pump will be needed. The pumps are measured using the GPH (gallons per hour) unit and the GPH should be around half of the number of gallons in the pond, for example if the pond contains 500 gallons of water then the pump should have a rating of 250 GPH.

What are Pond Pumps Used For?

Pond Pumps are not only for pumping water, they also perform an essential function by keeping the water moving. This helps the water biologically by circulating oxygen, which is necessary if you want to have fish and plants in your pond and the movement of the water also keeps the water clean and mosquito free.

Another choice you need to make is between an electric powered or solar powered pump, if you choose an electric pump you will need to have a power outlet close by or have one installed, if you don’t want to bother with that then you can opt for the solar option.

Also depending on the size of you pond you’ll need to decide whether to buy an external or submersible model. Generally the submersible pond pumps are better for smaller ponds as they work out cheaper in the long run and also produce less noise, but as they are installed under water they may require more maintenance and cleaning.

External pond pumps are usually more powerful and are better for larger ponds, they are also easier to keep clean and repair but are more expensive and it’s important to consider the level of noise they produce while operating as this can interfere with the sound the water is producing which may be distracting and they will use more electricity than the smaller pumps.

Basically if you consider all these facts and shop around to see what pond pumps are on offer this should help you choose the one that’s right for your particular pond, as the right choice will ensure many years of enjoyment from your garden pond.

Pond Pumps

What is the Best Pond Pump?

Installing a pond or fountain can greatly improve the look and appeal of your garden. It not only adds an extra dimension to your garden but also creates a nice atmosphere for you to enjoy while relaxing. A pond pump is an essential and important part of any garden pond or water feature. It will help keep the water clean and free of mosquitoes and also create movement in the water. Keeping the water moving with a pond pump in a pond is necessary for the circulation of oxygen which keeps the pond biologically healthy which is vital if you have fish and plants in your pond.

Which Pond Pump Is Right For My Pond?

It is important to choose the right pond pump for your pond as there are many types available. Some things to consider are; the size of the pond, the amount of water in it, the rate of flow you require and the filtration.

There are two types of pond pumps available; submersible and external, the submersible goes in the pond and the external remains outside the pond and basically the type of pump you need depends on the size of your pond.

For smaller ponds the submersible pond pump is a better choice because they are cheaper to run, less noisy and can be used for draining the pond, but because they are subjected to water all of the time the seals may often need to be replaced. To help avoid this problem submersible pumps should be cleaned regularly and also it’s a good idea to keep your pond clean in order to prevent the filters getting clogged up.

To help you determine the size of pond pump you require, you need to calculate the gallons per hour (GPH), this is the rate at which the water will be circulated, most pond pumps are measured using this unit. The general rule is that the GPH should be at least half of the total amount of water contained in your pond. So if your pond contains 1000 gallons of water you should have at least a 500 GPH pump. If you have a fountain or other water features you will need a more powerful pump.

An external pump works better for bigger ponds with a large amount of water and you can still use it with a biological filtration system but because of the external installation it can create more noise and the electricity consumption will be higher.

A pond pump is an essential part of your garden pond installation and a properly maintained system will ensure that your pond will stay clean and healthy.

Pond Pump

What Are The Benefits Of Solar Water Pumps?

Water features such as Solar Water Pumps can be used to improve a homes aesthetic value and this trend is gaining more and more popularity in the recent years. Ponds, fountains and other types of water features are great additions to the home, which boost the aesthetic value and curb appeal of the house. With the increasing preferences for these aquatic decors, the need for solar water pumps is likewise apparent.

What Styles Of Solar Water Pumps Are Available?

There are two styles of Solar Water Pumps available: traditional pond pumps and the solar powered types. Of the two, the solar type is deemed to have some major benefits and much more. Here are five of the most outstanding advantages and benefits you could get for using solar powered water pumps.

1. Natural and Environmentally Friendly. As the name implies, the pump utilizes the renewable solar energy for power and operation. Unlike conventional types, it is not dependent on fossil fuels, which could bring a destructive effect on the environment.
2. Cost and Energy Effective. This is the most important thing that people with limited budgets are craving for. Solar water pumps are highly cost effective and you will notice a dramatic decrease in your utility bills. After all, you are using solar power when operating the system and powering your water features. Thus, no matter how long you use it, it would have no bearing on your energy consumption.
3. Silent Operation. Most solar powered pumps are silent and very quiet when operating. Thus unlike traditional types, you would not be dealing with the annoying noise and loud sounds that diverts your attention from the supposedly soothing effects of the water features.
4. Keeps Pond Water Fresh. Pond pumps in general are used to keep water fresh and clean. With powerful solar pumps, you can be 100% sure of the sanitation of the water feature and it keeps outdoor pests and insects away.
5. Provides Fresh Water Oxygen. Since you are using a solar water pump, you can be sure that the water is kept fresh and provided with oxygen. This is especially applicable with submersible pumps, which operate without the risk of fuels and other chemicals combining with the water while it operates.

Solar Water Pumps

The Best Pond Pumps

Spruce up the curb appeal and beauty of your home today through sophisticated, refreshing gardens and water features for your landscape. However, before you push through on your plans to set up a pond, water fountain or miniature waterfalls in your home landscape, you must first look for the salient components – pond pumps being at the top of the list.

Here are some of the highly preferred units and brands of Pond Pumps for your ponds that we have reviewed for you:

Sunterra 137016 Extra Large Fountain Pump

This high performance and powerful fountain pump is engineered and designed for larger water features. These models of pond pumps can carry up to 320 gallons of water every hour with an 8-foot maximum lift. It is a great investment since it can operate for longer hours without demanding regular maintenance. You could even use clean or outdoor water from your gardens because it comes complete with the pre-filter box. The package is also inclusive of the 16 foot power cord which is compatible for standard 120-volt outdoor outlets.

Beckett GPH Underwater Pump for Small Ponds, Fountains, Waterfalls

This water pump unit is perfect for garden waterfalls, small ponds and water fountains. It circulates a quantity of up to 210 gallons per hour ideal for spas, birdbaths and other water features. The pump is specially engineered and designed for underwater or submersible purpose and it could operate with oil-free maintenance. The removable screen inlet is likewise convenient to clean while the maximum pumping height is up to 7.1-foot.

Danner 02527 Pondmaster 700 gph Pump

These high quality pond pumps are made to operate and simultaneously run without wearing out. It is designed with epoxy content instead of oil so there are no hassles with leakages. The unit is likewise highly energy efficient thus you get to save hundreds of dollars in your utility bills. The unit cycles 700 gallons of water per hour and could quietly run and operate for your water features at home. The package includes the 18 foot long cord and the pre-filter box.

Little Giant Pump 566407 4300 GPH Pond Pump

These pond pumps are ideal for water features such as waterfalls and stream applications. It can powerfully operate and carry water to two water features in a superb simultaneous manner. It is an extremely versatile unit which could be vertically or horizontally used. It has powerful features and direct drive operation which generates greater starting torque. It has more powerful flow pressure compared to other submersible pumps. Since you could use it simultaneously, the unit is equipped with dual outlet. It is a long lasting investment with its corrosion resistant body.

Pond Pumps Reviewed

What are the best features of Pond Pumps

Once you have filled your pond and added your fish, the question is…. Are pond pumps necessary? Unless you have created a small, self sustaining lake in your backyard, the answer is a resounding YES. Here’s Why…

• Create Motion. Ponds require a lot of water movement to maintain a well balanced and healthy environment.  Pond pumps are the best way to move water in a pond. It also can create a beautiful waterfall that not only increases the ambiance to your pond, but also greatly benefits the oxygen level in your water.
• Produces Oxygen. Virtually all living things from algae to humans need oxygen to survive. It is the one essential need in keeping your pond not only looking great but in creating an atmosphere in which your pond inhabitants can thrive in.  Pumps recirculate the water within your pond, as well as aerate. The circulation of the water through pond pumps remove waste making for a healthy environment for your fish.
  

  

• Avoids Stagnation. It is important for your pond to avoid stagnation. Stagnant water is not only a breeding ground for mosquitoes but it also produces an unpleasant smell. The circulation that pond pumps create makes it impossible for water to stand still, ensuring against pond turnover. Pond turnover is when layers of water suddenly drop in temperature and mix in with deeper levels of water that tends to be not as high in oxygen. This action creates an oxygen depleted environment, often killing your fish and other water inhabitants. If you’d like to have Koi or goldfish in your pond choosing from multiple pond pumps is especially important.

Are Pond Pumps Even Important?

To create an environment where your fish and aquatic life will flourish it’s important to have a pond pump. Pond Pumps clean and aerate your water as well as create a relaxing water feature to be enjoyed anywhere.

Pond Pumps