Pond pumps | What pond pump do I need for my pond?

Are you going to build a pond in the garden and you are looking for a pond pump because you have heard that a pump is essential to keep the pond clear? Well this is not true, you can also keep your pond clear and healthy by choosing a smart combination of pond plants. I will tell you how to keep your pond healthy without a pump.

All about pond pumps

• The function of a pond pump
• The different types of pond pumps
• Number of hours per day the pump is on and the cost
• A healthy and clear pond without a pond pump
• Advantages of a pond without a pump

The function of a pond pump

The main function of a pond pump is to circulate water in the pond, which will increase the oxygen content of the water. This is because stagnant water tends to be low in oxygen, which can lead to problems in the pond, namely the formation of various types of algae such as filamentous and floating algae. When there is insufficient oxygen in the water, pond fish and other underwater animals in the pond can die. Thus, a pond pump can help improve the quality of water in the pond and keep pond life healthy. If the pond is properly set up with pond substrate, pond bacteria and sufficient and different types of aquatic plants, a pond pump and pond filter is unnecessary. This is because the aquatic plants then naturally keep the pond clear, healthy and balanced with their unique functions.

The different types of pond pumps

There are different types of pond pumps, each with their own characteristics and applications. Below are some of the most common types of pond pumps:

Circulation pump

This pump is designed to circulate water in the pond to improve oxygen levels. This type of pump is often used in small ponds or water features.

Fountain Pump

This pump serves to pump up water to create a fountain or water ornament. In addition to the decorative effect, this can also help aerate the water.

Pond Filter Pump

This pump is used in conjunction with a pond filter to clean the water. The water is passed through the filter by the pump, where dirt and waste are removed.

Skimmer pump

This pump is used in conjunction with a skimmer to remove floating debris from the surface of the water. The skimmer attracts the debris, after which it is sucked up by the pump and directed to the filter.

Submersible pump

Submersible or dirty water pumps are submerged in water and can be used to pump water from the pond, for example, to empty the pond or to transport water from one place to another.

Number of hours per day the pump is on and the cost

An average pond pump uses about 25 watts of power. If this pump is on continuously, it can result in consumption of 200 kWh per year, which equates to about 100 euros in electricity costs. With heavier pond pumps, the power can exceed 200 watts, resulting in annual consumption of up to 2,000 kWh and costs of up to 1,500 euros. It is important to note that a pond pump does not have to be on continuously to be effective. Most pond experts recommend running the pond pump for at least eight hours a day, especially during the summer months. This is usually enough to properly circulate the water and add oxygen to the pond. To avoid the cost of a pond pump, you can choose to invest in aquatic plants to purify the water. A plant filter is a natural way to keep your pond healthy. Choose oxygen plants, marsh plants and water lilies because their functions provide oxygen to the water, filter the water of waste products and prevent algae.

A healthy and clear pond without a pond pump

Many people think that buying a pond pump is necessary to keep the water quality in the pond healthy, but this is not true. In fact, a pond pump can very well be replaced by following a few simple steps.

Installation of a plant filter

A plant filter, also known as a swamp filter, is a natural way to filter water. Plants and bacteria purify the water in this filter. The roots and leaves of pond plants growing in the filter absorb waste products and help to reduce silt in the water.

Placing a layer of pond substrate

In fact, a layer of pond substrate provides a good base for beneficial pond bacteria to nestle in. Substrate also provides a place for pond plants to take root so that they can continue to grow healthily and perform their function in the pond.

Plant plenty of marsh plants in the pond

Marsh plants are known to be good water purifiers, and therefore can help keep a pond clean. Marsh plants have a strong root system that allows them to grow quickly. They absorb waste products from the water, reducing nitrate in the water.

Plant plenty of oxygen plants in the pond

The function of oxygen plants in the pond is to absorb nutrients from the water and produce oxygen. This results in clear water and a conducive habitat for other pond plants to grow and for underwater animals to live healthy lives.

Place at least one water lily in the pond

Water lilies can be an effective solution to algae growth in the pond. The water lily leaf blocks the sun, which reduces water heating and algae growth. In addition, the water lily leaf provides a natural hiding place for pond fish and other pond animals.

By following these steps, a pond without a pump gives the same results as a pond with a pump and is also a much more environmentally friendly alternative. In addition, aquatic plants promote biodiversity in and around the garden.

Advantages of a pond without a pump

The advantages of a pond without a pump are numerous, below I will name the main advantages of a pond without a pump:

• Another benefit of a pond without a pump is that it can promote biodiversity. The absence of a pond pump creates a more natural environment in the pond and creates habitat for different types of plants and animals. By using natural purification techniques such as a plant filter, the water in the pond is kept clear and healthy, which is beneficial for the development of different types of aquatic organisms. This increases the biodiversity of the pond and creates a balanced ecosystem in which different types of animals and plants can flourish.
• A pond without a pump is low maintenance because the different types of aquatic plants that are in the pond maintain the pond and restore the balance. With a pond pump, you have the disadvantage of having to maintain and clean the pump because otherwise the pump can malfunction.
• Finally, a pond without a pump is cheaper than a pond with a pump and it also looks much nicer. Pond plants can be purchased in a ready-made pond plant kit that includes a smart selection of pond plants that maintain the pond naturally. This is a one-time purchase because all of our aquatic plants are hardy. A pond pump, on the other hand, is expensive to purchase and consumes a lot of power daily so these costs continue year in and year out.

Frequently asked questions about pond pumps