Filters

Why pond filtration is a must

Organic matter is continually added to a garden pond by fish waste and dead leaves, left alone it can become toxic and turn the water green. A pond filter acts as a waste water treatment system, good bacteria colonise the filter and breakdown toxic organic matter (ammonia and nitrites) into nitrates which is plant food.

To be effective there must be sufficient bacteria present in the filter to match the size of the pond and the number of fish. Ponds can not be over filtered, so always choose a filter that is the correct size or larger for your pond and select a pump that will turn your pond water over every two hours. The filter bacteria rely on the flow of water to live, hence the pump and filter must be run 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Filters will need to be cleaned periodically, always use pond water as tap water may kill the bacteria. It takes time, (approximately 6 weeks), for bacteria to fully colonise a filter, this can be speeded up by adding a filter boost, initially and after each cleaning. Efficient pond filters will help to keep your fish healthy and active in a clean environment. A pond filter on its own will not necessarily keep the water clear as suspended algae will feed on the nitrates, turning the water as green as pea soup, for this reason most filters incorporate a UV clarifier. This destroys the algae as it passes through the filter leaving the water clear. A separate UV clarifier can be added to an existing filtration system.

Together, the pump, filter and UV clarifier will keep a pond both clean and clear making it a joy to watch healthy active fish.