Pumps

Pond pumps can be split into two categories, solids handling filter pumps which are designed to convey solids into a filter and therefore, do not include a pre-filter, and fountain pumps which do include a pre-filter, either a fine strainer cage or foam, to protect the impeller and stop the fountain head clogging.

Solids Handling Filter Pumps

The lack of pre-filter means that a minimum of maintenance is required on this style of pump. It is recommended that on a daily basis, the pump is visually checked to ensure that it is performing satisfactorily. On a monthly basis, the pump should be removed from the pond so that the strainer and impeller can be cleaned and freed from any blockages that may have occurred. Finally, on a yearly basis, the pump should be disassembled in accordance with the instructions and all components should be washed in clean, fresh water.

Fountain/Waterfall Pumps

All fountain pumps use some sort of pre-filtration, be it in the form of a piece of foam, or a fine strainer cage. This is to protect the impeller from large solids, algae or fish waste, and to stop the fountain head blocking up. This pre-filtration means that a fountain pump will require more regular cleaning than a solids handling pump, but this is a very simple process. As soon as a reduction in the fountain or waterfall flow is noticed, the pump should be removed form the pond. On most new pumps, such as the Cascade 2000, 3000 and 4000 or the Maxima range, the pre-filter takes the form of a foamless cage. This can simply be wiped clean and then rinsed in clean, fresh water. At this time, you should also rinse out the fountain head in the same way. If your pump has a foam pre-filter, this should be removed from it's holding cage and washed by squeezing out any dirt into some clean pond water. Once reassembled the pump can be returned to the pond.

It is recommended that this process is also carried out on a monthly basis to prevent any build up of algae or fish waste on the pre-filter. Finally, on a yearly basis, the pump should be disassembled in accordance with the instructions and all components should be washed in clean, fresh water.

Tips
• Always unplug and disconnect ALL appliances in the pond from the electricity supply before putting your hands in the water or starting maintenance.
• Never pull on the pump's cable to remove it from the pond. This can damage the seal and potentially shorten the pump's life. Tie some string to the handle to ease removal from the pond.
• Never twist foam when cleaning it, only squeeze it. Twisting foam can dramatically reduce its life span.
• Do not use detergents when cleaning pump parts, only clean fresh water.
• If your solids handling pump is a Prima, it must be stored in water at all times once it has been used, even when not running in a pond, to prevent the seals from drying and cracking.