In order to keep your pond filtration system running at maximum efficiency, you will need to clean the filter media on a regular basis. How often this needs to be done will depend on the type of filtration unit or units you are using, fish stocking levels in your pond and the amount of debris from plants that is normally present in the water. Below, we discuss the 3 most popular types of pond filter and how you should set about ensuring they remain in good working order throughout their useful lifetime.
Keeping Your Filtration System Running at Optimum Efficiency
If you allow your filter media to become clogged with debris, the flow rate of the water that passes through it will be reduced and you could run into problems with the water condition in your pond. To avoid this happening, make sure that you clean the media as often as is necessary. Whichever type of filter you use, you should always use pond rather than tap water to clean the media inside. This is because the chlorine that is present in untreated tap water will kill the beneficial bacteria that is present in the filter media, which could lead to dangerous spikes in the ammonia and nitrite levels in your pond.
Box/Gravity Fed Filters – These are one of the simplest types of filter to clean. With most models on the market today, all you need to do is to shake or squeeze the filter media in order to dislodge debris, before using the bottom drain to purge the waste matter from the housing. Some box filters have a mechanism to compress the media, negating the need to shake it, while others may require the removal of media for cleaning purposes.
External Pressure Filters – Although not particularly difficult to clean, external pressure filters normally require a little more effort than box filters. The supply pump for your filter will need to be turned off and you will then have to open the filter housing so that the media can be removed and rinsed in pond water. You should then replace the media, close the filter unit and restart the pump. Some external pressure filters have a back flush valve to facilitate cleaning.
Submersible/All-in-One Filters – These are slightly harder to maintain in good working order as you will need to reach down to the bottom of your pond to recover the filter and remove the media inside to clean it. You should of course always turn the unit off before carrying out this operation and turn it back on once you have finished.
If your filter has reached the end of its useful lifetime or you are setting up a new pond and need to install a brand new unit, you will find a wide range of pond filtration equipment in our online store. We are always on hand during business hours to help you choose the best model for your needs, should you require any assistance; alternatively, you can send us an email at any time, with any questions you have.
