Best Pond Pump Information 2021
Pumps keep the water in your pond healthy. They help evenly spread nutrients in the water to fish, plants and other aquatic life. Running water prevents stagnation and cuts down on algae and mosquitoes. Keeping the water moving ensures that oxygen levels are distributed throughout the pond. Pumps also provide power for a pond’s water features, like waterfalls and fountains.
This guide will help you learn about the best pond pumps for your garden.
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The best water pumps for your pond and its fountain or waterfall come in variety of types and styles. They include submersible, external, magnetic drive and direct drive. Each of these water garden pumps offers its own advantages.
Submersible Pumps: These pumps are designed to work while wholly submerged in water. Typically, they are installed in the deepest part of the pond. Submersible pumps can be placed either directly into your pond or in a skimmer box or pond vault.
- Easy to install.
- Work well in environments that capitalize on a natural setting.
- No need to camouflage the pump.
- Run very quietly so there’s no distracting noise in your garden.
- Submersible pumps can be used to drain your pond, if needed.
- Range in pumping size from 50 to 5,000 gallons per hour.
- Can generate higher energy costs than other pump types.
- For smaller ponds, submersible pumps are generally more economical.
Tip: Some submersible pumps use oil to operate. If the pump seal breaks and leaks harmful oil coolant into the water, fish can be hurt or killed. If you have fish or other aquatic life in your pond, you’ll want to look for a submersible model that does not use oil.
External Pumps: External pumps can move a high volume of water, yet usually have lower energy costs than submersible pumps. They are not as quiet as submersible pumps. They should be placed in a dry location near your pond. External pumps are a lot more complicated to install. However, they are generally more reliable.
- Available as self-priming pumps able to draw their own water.
- Can be loud, disturbing the quiet of your garden.
- Work well for larger ponds that are 1,000 gallons or more.
- Offer long-lasting performance and easy repair.
- Require less routine maintenance than submersible pumps.
Tip: Pumps that are not self-priming can burn out a motor if the power shuts off momentarily and then comes back on. Protect against this by installing a check valve.
Magnetic Drive: In a magnetic-drive pump, an electrical charge creates a magnetic field that causes the magnet on the impeller to rotate and pump water. Since they have no seals to wear out, they require little maintenance. Occasionally, you will need to clean the impeller and its chamber for the most efficient operation.
- Completely sealed. Magnetic-drive pumps do not require lubrication.
- Because they don’t contain oil, magnetic-drive pumps are safer for ponds with fish, since oil leaks don’t occur.
- Don’t generate high head heights. Magnetic-drive pumps are unable to lift pond water vertically, which you might need to supply water to a fountain. They are not the best water pumps for fountains.
- Work best in cleaner environments with little or no debris.
- Highly efficient and cost-effective.
Direct Drive: Direct-drive pumps have an enclosed motor that is powered by electricity, which turns the impeller shaft.
- Achieve significant head height, so they are able to move water vertically. They are among the best water pumps for fountains and waterfalls.
- Typically more expensive to operate.
- Push water rather than pulling it.
- Not easily repaired.
Tip: Some models seal the motor in an oil-filled shell with seals around the cord and impeller shaft. These are risky to use if you have a pond stocked with fish. There is an ever-present danger of water contamination if a leak occurs. Many newer pumps, however, feature alternative lubrication that is safe for fish. Look for oil-free models if you have fish or other aquatic life in your pond.
Pond Pump Calculations
Pond Pump Features
Garden Water Features
Water features are a beautiful and relaxing addition to any garden. There are many different types of water features available, from simple bird baths to more elaborate fountains and ponds.
Plant Light 101
Plant lighting is important, I think we can all agree on that! Now, when it comes to lighting, you’re going to want to know a few things before you purchase. When we are talking about lighting, we’re talking about the little light you can place above your indoor or outdoor plants.
All About Aquatic Plants
Aquatic plants and their benefits
Most people are familiar with land plants, but fewer are aware of the wonders of aquatic plants. These fascinating organisms play an important role in freshwater ecosystems, providing food and shelter for fish, amphibians, and invertebrates. In addition, they help to improve water quality by absorbing nutrients and releasing oxygen into the water. Aquatic plants can also be used to beautify ponds and aquariums. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a complete novice, planting a few aquatic plants in your tank can add a splash of color and life to your home. So why not give these unique creatures a try? You might be surprised at how much you enjoy watching them grow and thrive.
Some interesting facts about water plants
While most plants rely on the process of photosynthesis to convert sunlight into energy, aquatic plants have evolved to live primarily in water. As a result, they have adapted in a number of ways to survive in their underwater environment. For example, many aquatic plants are able to absorb nutrients directly from the water through their leaves. In addition, plants typically have very strong roots that anchor them to the bottom of a body of water. This allows them to withstand the current and also prevents them from being pulled up by fish or other animals. While they may not be as flashy as some of their land-dwelling counterparts, aquatic plants play an essential role in the ecosystem and are fascinating creatures in their own right.
Different types of aquatic plants
There are three main types of aquatic plants: floating, emergent, and submerged. Floating plants are those that, well, float on the surface of the water. This type of aquatic plant is often used to provide shade and shelter for fish. Emergent plants are those that grow in shallow water with their roots anchored in the mud beneath. Submerged plants are those that grow entirely underwater. This type of aquatic plant is often used to help oxygenate the water. Aquatic plants play an important role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. They provide food and shelter for fish, help to regulate water temperature, and prevent soil erosion. In short, they’re pretty important!
How to care for aquatic plants
Like all plants, aquatic plants need sunlight and nutrients to grow. However, they have a few unique requirements that must be met in order to thrive. First, it is important to choose the right location for your plants. They should be placed in an area where they will receive at least six hours of sunlight per day. Second, aquatic plants need to be planted in soil that is specifically designed for them. This type of soil is typically sold in pet stores or garden centers. Third, aquatic plants require a consistent water supply. A slowly dripping faucet or an automatic water delivery system can help to ensure that they always have enough water. By following these simple tips, you can keep your aquatic plants healthy and happy for years to come.
Recipes that use plants as ingredients
Nibble on this bit of information: did you know that not only are aquatic plants nutritious, but they’re also delicious? While you may not be used to seeing them as part of your nightly meal, there’s no reason why they can’t make a splash (pun intended) in your kitchen. Here are a few recipes to get you started:
– Watercress and arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette: This light and refreshing salad is perfect for a summer day. The bitterness of the arugula is offset by the sweetness of the watercress, while the lemon vinaigrette ties everything together.
– Seaweed sushi rolls: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional sushi, give seaweed rolls a try. They’re easy to make and packed with nutrients.
– Pondweed Parmesan: Pondweed is a nutrient-rich aquatic plant that has a similar taste and texture to spinach. It’s delicious when sautéed with garlic and Parmesan cheese.
So go ahead and give aquatic plants a try – your taste buds will thank you!
Now that you know a little bit more about aquatic plants and their benefits, it’s time to get your hands wet! Literally. Why not head down to your local plant nursery and pick up a few of these interesting underwater friends? And if you’re feeling really adventurous, why not try one of the recipes we’ve shared using aquatic plants as ingredients? We guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
Check out our store for all your water gardening needs! Aquascape products are Aquascape Inc. Certified.
Thanks for reading at Meyer Aquascapes! We hope you’ve enjoyed our post on garden pond design. Please leave a comment below if you liked it or have any questions. We’d love to hear from you! Thanks for stopping by!