Pond Filtration

Filtration is essential for maintaining water clarity, removing debris, and supporting a healthy pond ecosystem. Proper filtration prevents harmful ammonia and nitrites from accumulating, keeps algae under control, and ensures your fish and aquatic plants thrive.

Most ponds benefit from a combination of mechanical and biological filtration:

• • Mechanical Filtration: Removes physical debris like leaves and dirt.
  • Biological Filtration: Breaks down organic waste using beneficial bacteria.  We also recommend UV clarifiers for controlling algae and maintaining clear water.

Mechanical Filtration: Physically traps and removes debris from the water before it decomposes. Examples include skimmers and filter pads.

Biological Filtration: Uses bacteria to break down waste into less harmful compounds like nitrates, which plants can absorb. Biological filters often use bio-media like bio-balls or ceramic rings.

We have an article titled "How To Choose The Right Pond Filter" that you might find helpful.  If you don't have time to read it then consider these factors:

• Pond Size: Larger ponds require filters with higher capacity.
• Fish Load: More fish means more waste, requiring stronger filtration.
• Features: If you have waterfalls or fountains, you may need specialized filtration systems.

Our team at Garden Ponds Unlimited® can help you select the best filter for your needs.

We proudly stock and install a variety of Aquascape products, including:

• BioFalls® Filters: Combine biological filtration with the aesthetic appeal of a waterfall.
• UltraKlean® Pressure Filters: Compact systems with UV clarifiers for clear water.
• Pond Skimmers: Efficiently remove surface debris to keep ponds clean.

Cleaning frequency depends on the type of filter and your pond’s environment:

• Mechanical Filters: Clean skimmers and pads weekly or as needed.
• Biological Filters: Rinse bio-media occasionally with pond water to preserve beneficial bacteria.

Yes, filtration systems can be added or upgraded to existing ponds. Whether you need a standalone filter, a UV clarifier, or a complete filtration system, we can help integrate it seamlessly into your setup.

The size of your filter depends on your pond’s volume and fish load.

General Rule: The filter should process the total volume of water at least once every two hours. For koi ponds or heavily stocked ponds, a larger filter may be necessary.

Here's how to calculate the volume of water in your pond.

A UV clarifier uses ultraviolet light to kill free-floating algae, bacteria, and pathogens that cloud the water. It’s highly effective in controlling algae blooms and is recommended for ponds with persistent clarity issues.

While aquatic plants contribute to water quality by absorbing nutrients and reducing algae, they cannot fully replace a filtration system. A balanced ecosystem requires both plants and proper filtration to maintain healthy water conditions.

Signs of a well-functioning filtration system include:

• Clear water with minimal algae.
• Healthy fish and plants.
• No foul odors or excessive debris accumulation.
  Regular water testing can also ensure ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates are within safe levels.

Yes, we carry a full range of replacement parts and filter media, including pads, bio-balls, and ceramic rings. Visit our store for everything you need to maintain or upgrade your filtration system.

Absolutely! We offer compact options like the Aquascape Pond Filter Urn, which combines filtration and decoration for small ponds and container water gardens.

Yes, with the right filtration system. For ponds with many fish, we recommend combining mechanical, biological, and UV filtration to manage waste and maintain clear water.

Costs vary depending on the system size and features. Basic systems start at a few hundred dollars, while larger or more advanced systems with UV clarifiers or integrated waterfalls can range into the thousands. We’ll work with you to find a solution that fits your budget.

Yes, Garden Ponds Unlimited provides expert installation for all the filtration systems we sell. Our team ensures your system is set up for maximum efficiency and performance.

Of course! Our knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions, provide maintenance tips, and recommend products to keep your filtration system in top shape.