Koi Pond Pump - Because Size Matters

So you're looking for a Koi pond pump, but you're not quite sure where to turn? Well maybe these guidelines can help steer you in the right direction.

One of the main things that you want to get right is the power and function of the pump. First of all, it has to be able to move the volume of water in the pond. We're talking about a pump that will circulate half of the volume of water in the pond within one hour. It has to be able to do it efficiently without struggling. So you're looking to get a pump with an adequate gph (Gallons Per Hour) capacity.

Now if you own a large pond, then you will want to consider looking into a Koi pond pump that doubles as a filter. The reason and necessity for this added filtration is simply because most dedicated biological filters lack the power and capacity to successfully filtrate many of the solid particles and waste in a large pond by themselves. The added filtration of the combination pump and filter puts your mind at ease that your Koi are less likely to be swimming in muck and adverse health conditions. Remember, Koi require clean, fresh, aerated water for good health and longevity of life. Along with proper feeding, pond maintenance and overall care on the part of the owner, there is a heavy amount of responsibility that lies with the Koi pond pump and filter as they are in essence, the lifeline of your Koi.

Waterfalls and fountains are great additions to any pond, and in a Koi pond they are even better for a few reasons. First, fountains and waterfalls fold oxygen back into the water. This folding process helps to aerate the pond water by supplying this needed oxygen to your Koi fish. Secondly, the sound of running water through a fountain or over a waterfall induces such a calming and tranquil atmosphere, and all of this adds to the serenity of your garden. So with all that said, a sufficient Koi pond pump is needed, one that will move the large amount of water in the pond well enough to supply water to the fountain and waterfall.

There are two main types of pond pumps to choose from, and depending on your particular circumstances and preferences will determine which one you should go with. The two types are submersible and external pumps. Submersible pumps are often favored because they are, for the most part hidden, submerged under the water of the pond and out of sight, contributing to the aesthetic beauty of the garden pond. In the past they were not as sufficient in larger ponds as apposed to an external Koi pond pump. But these days there are several submersible pumps that will handle the movement of water in larger ponds effectively. Be sure to check its gph capacity.

Within the two categories of submersible and external, there are several sub-categories including solar and magnetic pond pumps to choose from. In most cases, solar pumps are not sufficient for managing the water in larger ponds. On top of this, there is the obvious - solar pumps will require sunlight. If there is not enough of it reaching the pumps solar panels, due to trees, buildings or lack of sunlight in general, then the pump does not operate effectively. However, in smaller ponds with adequate sunlight, a solar powered Koi pond pump could be a great way to go eco-friendly and save on energy costs keeping you and your Koi a little happier. A magnetic pond pump is also nice because it is generally much quieter then a standard pond pump. Again, taking us back to that idea of maintaining that peaceful, tranquil garden atmosphere with little to no unwanted noise from the pond pump. A magnetic pump is also safer for the fish as it contains no oil that could leak through seals and into your pond water. Even so, the seals on a magnetic pump are generally tighter then standard pump seals. A magnetic Koi pond pump is also energy efficient.

It would be a good idea to have your pond details to hand when talking to a specialist regarding your pond pump requirements. You will need information such as the dimensions of your pond along with the water capacity, how many fish are in the pond and how large they are. You might be asked how large you intend to grow them and if you have intentions of adding more fish in the future. You should also let them know if you have any plants, fountains or waterfalls in the pond or if you intend to add any of these features later. Getting as many details together before hand can save you much time and money in the long run.