When building a pond, it is imperative that you select the right pump. The pump circulates the water, adding oxygen and other nutrients back into the pond. Pumps also help to prevent stagnation, limit algae growth, and eliminate the opportunity for mosquitoes to lay eggs on the pond’s surface.

The size of the pump is largely dependent on your needs; but here are a few factors that can help you in determining which size is right:

•  Determine how many gallons of water are in your pond;

•  The entire amount of water in the pond should be circulated once every hour, or at minimum, once every two hours;

•  The gallon per hour (GPH) rating on the pump, and the total gallons in your pond, will help you determine the appropriate pump size;

•  Pond Pump GPH can be reduced but never increased;

•  Make sure the pump flow does not exceed the level indicated on your filter

If vertical water features are present (eg. Waterfalls), here are some other factors to consider:

•  Head height refers to the distance a pond pump will need to push water to reach the top of your feature;

•  Determine the head height of your feature with the following calculation:

              (Horizontal Distance ÷10 feet) + (Vertical Height above water level);

•  The stronger the desired flow of water, a larger GPH is required in your pump;

•  If using a water feature kit, look for manufacturer recommendations on water flow

For more information on the different types of pond pumps, please refer to our posting, What are the Different Types of Pond Pumps?