If you’re the proud owner of a pond, you know the importance of a good filter. If you’re thinking about building a pond, it’s important to learn what kind of filter will help keep your pond healthy.
Choosing the right pond filter can seem overwhelming at first. With so many filters available, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. It doesn’t have to be.
When buying a pond filter, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the different options. You need to take into account the size of your pond and the capacity of the filter. You will also want to take a look at the different kinds of filtration that are used in certain products.
Pond Filter Reviews
OASE Biosmart 5000
The OASE Biosmart 5000 is a great choice for an all-in-one filter. Hence the name, this filter can handle a pond up to 5,000 gallons and runs at 2,700 GPH.
A built in cleaning indicator tells you when the filter needs to be cleaned, making it easy to maintain. It comes with a high surface area filter, which helps to catch debris in the water.
The OASE Biosmart 5000 also comes with a sludge drain, and helps to remove larger debris from your pond. This can be helpful if there are trees with falling leaves near your pond.
This filter comes with a water temperature display. With this, you can always be aware of your pond temperature, and monitor it as needed.
Pros
- Requires minimal maintenance
- Water temperature display and cleaning indicator
- High surface area filter
Cons
- Outtake is flimsy and can come off easily
- Hard to understand instructions from manufacturer
VIVOHOME Bio pressure Pond Filter
The VIVOHOME Bio Pressure pond filter Is a great choice for easy pond filtration.It offers high quality and easy maintenance, making it a top choice.
This filter comes with 4 different built-in filter sponges and an internal cleaning rod. This makes it possible to clean the filter without opening it up.
It is manufactured with strengthened ABS material. This filter is tough against the elements. It also makes it well insulated to protect against hot or cold temperatures.
The built-in UV lamp tube helps to inhibit algae growth and reduce water pollution, keeping your pond clear and clean. Both sponges and the UV lamp are easily replaceable.
Pros
- 4 built-in filter sponges
- Adapts to several different sized water pipes
- Internal cleaning rod can clean filter without opening
Cons
- Requires an external pump
- UV light needs replaced fairly regularly
PondBoss Filter Kit With Pump
The pond Boss filter and pump is a great all-in-one option. You get everything you need to start filtration. This energy efficient filter and pump also comes with a water fountain option.
The water fountain feature adds a nice setting to your pond. Having the constant sound of flowing water can also help you to relax when spending time around your pond.
The Pond Boss comes with everything you need to set up. This way you won’t spend extra time and money finding all the different parts and pieces.
This filter and pump set boasts an eco-friendly design. The filter is also designed to be energy efficient. This also makes the filter a nice quiet option.
Pros
- Energy Efficient
- Quiet operation
- Comes as a kit with everything you need
Cons
- Designed to be submersible and needs something to weigh it down underwater
- Needs cleaned frequently
Zeny Pressure Bio Filter
The Zeny Pressure Bio Filter is designed for ponds up to 2,500 gallons. It comes with everything needed to install. The max flow rate for the zeny pressure bio filter is 4,000 gallons per hour.
This Zeny Pressure Bio filter features a back flush function. This allows the filter to perform better and keep your pond cleaner and more clear.
The kit comes ready to use with a UV light. The UV light helps with algae control. This maintains a healthier environment if you have fish in your pond.
The zeny filter is made of strong and durable plastic. It is designed to last long and keep working. It has the same performance as other more expensive filters.
Pros
- Comes with all the parts needed to start
- Backflush function helps filter to work better
- Efficiently filters up to 2,500 gallons
Cons
- UV light can be difficult to replace
- Not the most user friendly operating instructions
Grech CPF-2500 Pond Bio Filter
The Grech CPF-2500 is a well designed filtration system. It is a good option for ponds with or without fish. Mechanical filtration allows dirt and particles to be filtered out of your pond quickly.
The Grech is easy to clean, and can be cleaned without taking the filter apart. The backflow allows the dirty water to easily flow out.
This has both mechanical and Biological filter chambers. This means that it filters out both larger solid waste, as well as smaller particles not seen by the naked eye. This keeps your water very clear.
This filter has a user-friendly “quick handle” cleaning system. The filter can be cleaned with the turn of a handle. This makes it easy. It also uses UV lighting as part of the filtration.
Pros
- Simple to clean
- Mechanical, biological, and UV filtration
- Compact design
Cons
- UV lamp failure
- Leaky connections
All Clear G2 Pressurized Filtration System
The All Clear G2 filter is designed with three types of filtration in one unit. This filter was quality designed in Germany. Ease of use and good quality make a great combination.
The AllClear is simple to use. It was designed with enough room around the knobs that they can be reached easily. Made for easy operation and maintenance.
The filter uses a low-watt UV clarification system. The UV causes the algae to form into bigger chunks. This makes it easier to be filtered out.
The AllClear comes with a patented “easy clean handle.” With this patented design, it offers a filter that is easier to clean than the competition. Debris is easily flushed out of the filter.
Pros
- German Designed and patented
- Easy cleaning and backflush
- Stands the test of time and the elements
Cons
- Is not recommended to use filter without UV light on.
TetraPond Submersible FlatBox Filter
Tetra has been making water products for over 50 years. They are a trusted name for many fish related products. This is a brand that has stood the test of time.
The TetraPond is submersible. It is made with a simple design and look. It can be hooked up to many different pumps, making it a versatile option.
The TetraPond flatbox filter can service ponds up to 500 gallons. It has easy opening access for cleaning. It helps to keep pumps and lines from becoming clogged.
With the TetraPond filter, the water moves through both coarse and fine layers of filter. This causes the separate filters to catch debris of various sizes.
Pros
- Simple design
- Works with a large variety of pumps
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- No UV filtration
- Can float around pond if not weighted down properly
Laguna Clear Flo Kit
The Laguna Clear Flo filter is a multi-filtered unit with foam filters as well as “bio lava rocks.” The bio rocks are used to gather bacteria and break down pond waste. This filter also comes with UV filtration to combat algae.
The Laguna Clear Flo comes in a variety of sizes. This gives you different options depending on the size of your pond and your filtration needs. Models range from 1000 to 4000.
This filter comes with a handy backflow option. This makes maintenance and filter cleaning a quick and easy process. Dirty water and debris can easily be flushed from the filter.
The Laguna Clear Flo also comes with internal UV light. This not only helps with algae, but adds more clarification to your pond. With the UV and the bio rocks, this filter helps to keep your pond looking clear.
Pros
- Bio Lava rocks add extra filtration and break up debris.
- Several different sizes to suit your needs
- 3 year warranty
Cons
- Needs a stronger pump than other filters to operate
Pondmaster Pump and Filterhead with bonus Fountainhead
This setup by Pondmaster includes the pump, filter, as well as a bonus fountain. Fountains can help to aerate your pond and help water clarity. This makes the fountainhead a nice bonus.
The Pondmaster combo is made out of good quality materials. It has two separate filtration systems for the water to pass through. This can be used on it’s own for smaller ponds, or as an additional filtration source for larger ponds.
Since the Pondmaster comes with the three separate parts, (pump, filter, and fountain) it makes it easier to get what you need all in one. This would be a good choice for someone who is just beginning their pond.
These setups come with a foam style filter. This makes the filter easier to clean. The filters can also be washed and reused several times before replacements are needed.
Pros
- Filters are washable and easy to clean
- Easy all-in-one design
Cons
- Fountainhead can become clogged easily
AquaNeat 1600 gal. pressure pond filter
This AquaNeat combo comes equipped with pond filter and pump. The filter also contains a 13 Watt UV light. It’s maximum flow rate is 1600 gallons per hour.
Like other pressure filters of this type, the AquaNeat also has an easy quick-handle cleaning mechanism. This allows the filter to be washed without opening the unit. It makes the filter very easy to clean.
The AquaNeat pressure pond system is suitable for larger decorative ponds. It can also be used for fish ponds anywhere of up to 800 gallons of water.
This pump uses both mechanical as well as biological methods of filtration. This helps your water to be clear and free of unhealthy waterborne pathogens.
Pros
- Comes with pump and filter
- Easy cleaning and backflow
- Simple design
Cons
- Does not come with all required components
As you can see, there are several different options when it comes to finding a filter for your pond. Think about what features you are looking for in a filter, and what your needs are.
You now know that different filters have different forms of filtration. You also know that you will need to consider the volume of your pond when buying a filter.
If you have any experience with any of the above filters, please share your experience with others. You now have the basic idea of what to look for before you go out and find a filter that works for you.
Types Of Filters
When looking at filters, you will see that some are meant to be above ground, and others are not. There are also filters that can be submerged underwater, in which case the filter will be easily hidden.
The main types of filters are External filters, submersible filters, pressurized filters, as well as pond skimmers. Each filter has its own benefits depending on your specific pond.
External Filters are filters that sit above ground outside of your pond. They use a water pump which pulls the water from the pond. The water is then forced through the filtration system, removing particles and debris. The filtered water is then returned back into the pond.
Submersible Filters are placed in the pond, and are submersed underwater. The submersible filters are a good option for smaller ponds. The filter and pump are placed at the bottom of the pond, which creates a suction. The water then gets filtered and recirculated back into the pond.
Pressurized Filters are placed outside of the pond. Your water pump will then route the water to the pressurized filter. The filter media is placed inside of the pressurized filter. These filters generally also include a UV light system.
Pond Skimmers can include a waterfall setup within your pond. It works as a sort of overflow filter. Think of the overflow drain on your bathroom sink. The water then moves to the opposite end of the pond and is dropped back into the pond via a waterfall or fountain setup.
What To Consider When Buying A Pond Filter
- Size Of Your Pond- This is probably the most important factor to consider when thinking about buying a new pond filter. A submersible filter would be a good choice for a smaller pond. They are more basic and not as complicated as other types of filters. For a larger pond, you may want to consider a pressurized or external type of filtration system.
- Amount Of Fish- If you have a pond without fish, a simple submersible filter should do the trick. However, if you have a pond with a large amount of fish, you will want to choose a better filtration system. Fish not only produce a large amount of waste, but also require a cleaner ecosystem to survive. With fish, a larger external filter or pressurized filter would be recommended.
- What Pump and Parts are Needed- Different filters work with different types of water pumps. You need to know how much water is in your pond, and how much water your pump can move. When buying a filter, look at the specifications of how much water is intended to move through it and what type of pump will work best with that filter.
- Sun Exposure- The amount of sunlight your pond is exposed to is also a factor to consider when assessing your filtration needs. More sunlight means increased algae growth. A high amount of algae can cause pumps and filters to clog up with debris. If you already have a pond, and have had trouble with algae taking over, it may be because your filtration system is not large enough for your ponds needs.
How To Maintain Your Pond Filter
Since the main purpose of your pond’s filter is to catch debris and dirty particles, it will regularly become dirty. This means you will need to take the time to clean and maintain your pond’s filtration system.
It is recommended that you clean your filter media once a week for maximum performance. The filter media inside the filter needs to be removed and cleaned. Some filters will include a foam or sponge type filter that can be removed and sprayed off. Keep the internal filter media cleaned regularly, and replace the filters as needed. It is recommended to replace foam type filters if you notice them becoming regularly clogged. If you are having to continuously clean your internal filters, it may be time to consider a larger pump and filtration system for your pond.
If your filter contains a UV clarifier, it is important to check it every so often to make sure it still works properly. This will help to ensure that your pond’s algae population stays in control. With a functioning UV clarifier, your water should stay more clear, and contain less pollution for fish. Even if your UV light appears to be working, it is recommended that you change the bulb every so often. Once a year should be sufficient.
Take apart pumps, hoses, and components a couple times a year. With dirty water constantly flowing through all the different parts of your filtration system, this is an important step to take. Depending on the amount of algae, fish waste, leaves and other debris, it is likely that your pumps, filters and connections will become clogged from time to time. Springtime is a good time for doing regular cleaning of your pumps, filters and hoselines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Filters
Why do I need a filter for my pond? For some smaller ponds with adequate plant life, a filter may not be a necessity. But no matter your pond size, a filter will most definitely help your pond water to be more healthy and clear. If you have fish in your pond, a filter is highly recommended. Since the fish produce a lot of waste that will settle on the bottom of the pond, it is important for the water to be properly filtered to keep your water from becoming murky. A filter can also help keep your pond clear from algae, fallen leaves, uneaten fish food, and other debris.
What Size filter do I need for my pond? The size of filter you will need for your pond will depend on your pond size. Pond size, volume and depth will all contribute to what size filter and pump are needed. Also find what size filter is recommended for the amount of fish you have. To first find the volume of your pond, use a measuring tape to measure the length, width and depth. To find how many gallons your pond is, use Length x Width X Depth X 7.5. This formula will give you an approximate estimate of how much water is in your pond and what size filter you will need. Always choose a filter that can handle one and a half times your pond volume. This way you will be sure to have adequate filtration.
Do I have to have a UV clarifier? Although a UVC is not required, it can be beneficial to your pond’s clarity. Many filters do not contain a UVC. However, the UV light helps to control algae in your pond, keeping the water more clear.
How often do I need to clean my pond filters? Although the answer to this question can vary, it is a good idea to check your filters regularly. This could be anywhere from weekly to a couple times a month. How often your filters will need cleaned and replaced will depend on the amount of debris, algae, and fish in your pond water.
What is the best filter for my pond? There isn’t necessarily a “best” filter. Finding a filter that is right for your needs will depend on several different factors. How much filter you need for the amount of water, how many fish are in your pond, and clarity of water are all things to take into consideration. If you are serious about maintaining your pond, do your research according to your specific needs. As with many other products, you usually get what you pay for when it comes to filtration systems.
Wrapping Up
If You are considering building a new backyard pond, consider doing some planning first. Many people start construction of their pond and don’t take filtration into account until later on.
Decide what size pond you are going to build. How much water your pond holds will play a large part in what kind of filtration you will need.
Now that you have a basic knowledge of different types of filters available, and the importance that your filter system has on your pond, it’s time to get started!
Don’t skimp on your filtration system, especially if you have fish in your pond. A clean and clear environment for your fish is important to their health and survival. Now that you’ve decided to build a pond, it’s time to choose the filter that’s right for your needs.
