Filters

The filter is the single most important piece of equipment, especially if you decide to add fish such as koi because it helps maintain clear water and a healthy environment for fish. However, it also generates the most common complaint people have about ponds—having to clean the filter too often. This is usually a result of a cheap or poorly designed filter, or one that is too small for the pond in question.

Do your research and choose a well-designed model adequately suited to your pond. While these quality filters typically cost more money, they can also reduce your overall maintenance time by up to 70 per cent. Also, when it comes to filters, bigger is always better. Select a model with a capacity larger than your pond; many filter manufacturers overestimate the capacity their filters can handle. Spending more money on a larger model could mean the difference between cleaning your filter once a month or once a day.

Recent technological advancements have also made filter maintenance a lot easier. Most older pond filters rely on filter pads or sponges to trap debris. These sponges are a chore to clean because they need to be manually squeezed and rinsed by hand. Some recent innovations include the use of small plastic beads (or kaldnes filter media), which allows filters to be backwashed with the simple turn of a handle. You don’t even need to get your hands wet!

Bottom drains

Bottom drains, which help draw debris from the bottom of the pond and direct it to the filter before it can build up, are becoming more popular, especially in larger koi ponds. Without this type of drain, debris can accumulate and create a layer of sludge on the bottom of the pond, which must be manually removed. Although they are a bit complicated to install, they virtually eliminate the need for draining or vacuuming.

Ultraviolet clarifiers

Some pond owners never have a problem with green, murky water caused by free-floating algae; for others, it is a perennial issue. Ultraviolet (UV) clarifiers offer a guaranteed solution for crystal clear water, as long as the equipment is properly sized. Installation is usually quite simple and the system can be added to an existing pond at any time.

Installing a pond may be one of the most rewarding things you can do for your backyard. By taking the time to carefully plan and prepare for a new water feature, you can add a unique and lively element and create your own peaceful backyard oasis.

Chris Dahl is the owner of Hydrosphere Water Gardens & Fisheries, a water garden centre that supplies imported Japanese koi, aquatic plants, pumps, filters and all other pond supplies to retail customers and landscape contractors. For more information, visit www.pondexperts.ca or contact him at info@pondexperts.ca.