Pond equipment

Pumps
Prior to stocking your pond with fish, it is advisable to purchase a pond pump and a filtration system. The pond pump sends water to the filter, recirculating clean water back to the pond. Additionally, running water prevents stagnation and insures that oxygen levels remain evenly distributed throughout the pond.

There are basically two types of pumps: submersible and surface.

Submersible pumps, as the name suggests are designed to work fully submerged and would burn out if used out of the water.
Surface pumps are designed to work out of the water and would suffer damage if used under water.These type of pumps are usually more powerful than the submersibles, normally used for moving larger volumes of water, making them more suitable for larger ponds.

The size of the pump is normally measured by how litres an hour it can pump, for example 2000 lph. The higher the flow rate the higher the wattage it consumes. The size of the of the pump you choose will be dependant on the maximum flow rate the filter can handle. If the pond is going to stock a significant number of fish, with no plants, the flow rate should ideally match the volume of water in the pond. Also note for every metre the water is going to be pumped in height, the flow rate will decrease.

I would advise buying a good well known brand of pump, don't be tempted by a cheaper make, as you will be lucky if they last a year and they normally consume a lot more electricity.

It is also advisable to have a spare pump, as the condition of the water can quickly deteriorate if the pump malfunctions.

Click on the link below for advice on pond filters...