All backyard ponds need moving water. Any water left stagnant for even short lengths of time will breed bacteria and algae, turn cloudy green and develop a strong smell. For backyard ponds that do not have a natural spring or creek to keep the water moving, a pump is necessary.

Backyard Pond Pumps

Plans for a backyard pond should consider type, size, location and water features. Each contributes to the size and type of pump required. Pumps should circulate all the water once an hour. As pumps operate, they build up debris that slows them down. A pump that is too small will be quickly overwhelmed. Although the cost is higher, it is recommended you buy a pump one size larger than your needs to keep the ecosystem in balance and the pond system functioning efficiently. For a fish pond, all that is needed is basic circulation. This simulates the natural environment for your fish or koi and keeps the pond water clear and healthy. To determine the volume of your pond, calculate length x width x depth. For irregular shapes, calculate in discrete sections and add them up. There are 7.5 gallons in each square foot. Small pond pumps are rated by GPH, the amount of water they can move in one hour over a height of one foot (larger volume pumps are rated in horsepower). A 100-cubic-foot pond will contain 750 gallons of water and need a 750 GPH pump. Waterfalls are an attractive way to keep the water in motion and aerate your pond. They need a pump that can lift the water from the pump to the highest level of water. When sending water down a stream or waterfall, calculate 150 gallons per hour for every inch of width. A waterfall with a six-inch spillway needs a 900 GPH pump. Another consideration is the horizontal distance needed to recirculate the water from the pump to the head of the waterfall. Ten feet equals one foot of elevation. Submersible and above ground pumps, oil or magnetic models and electric or solar powered each have ratings to match your pond's needs. A pond with a waterfall pump/filter system does best with a fountain with its own pump. Measure from the top of your pump to the highest level the water will reach. A pond pump at a depth of three feet sending water to a one-foot fountain that sprays it a foot higher equals five feet. You would need a pump rated to lift water five feet. Solar pumps are ideal for fountains. The more features you add to your backyard pond, the larger pump you will need to maintain a healthy ecosystem.

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Garden Ponds

Discount Pumps