FAQs

A pond is an excellent addition to any yard. That’s why our experts have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and tips to help get you started. We’re ready for your questions, because it’s important to us that you get the pond results you want! If you have a question that is not addressed on our website, our knowledgeable staff is always more than happy to assist you... so contact us, we’re here to help!

Starting Your Pond

Where would be an ideal location to place my water garden?

The location depends on the following recommended factors:

If you plan on adding water lilies to your pond, the location you choose should receive minimum 6 hours of sunlight a day.
Ensure that there is easy access to water and electricity.
To choose the most level site available while avoiding low level areas where rain could carry in pesticides, herbicides and possibly flood the pond. Also, try to avoid positioning the pond where it could catch falling leaves. Leaves will sink to the bottom, decompose and release toxins which may be harmful to fish and plants.
Try to avoid placing the pond in areas where the soil is prone to saturation. This can cause the liner to possibly float.
Try to place the pond in an area where it can be visible from the house where you spend most of your leisure time; either from the kitchen window or the deck, as an example.
Before digging, please consult your local building ordinance for codes and check for any under ground utility lines. Also, it would be a good idea to make an electrician aware of your water gardening project and have him or her install ground fault interrupter outlets to ensure that the equipment runs safely.

Check out our Smart Approach for more instructions!

How large should I make my pond?

The pond should be made as large as possible. Larger ponds are more stable ecologically, require less maintenance and are less costly per gallon. If you have the space available for a pond, then use it. The biggest complaint from first time pond builder is that they didn’t make their pond big enough. They are also safer for fish and can hold more lilies and other kinds of plants.

Is there a required depth for ponds?

Usually depths range from about 18 inches to 36 inches for water gardens and 3 feet to 6 feet for koi ponds. You should always check local codes for depth allowance and any fence requirements. Ponds that hold plants require sunlight so they should be kept in shallow areas.

How do I figure out how many gallons of water my pond holds?

Every square cubic foot of pond space is occupied by 7.5 gallons of water. By using the following formula, you can determine how many gallons are in your pond.

For Circular Ponds multiply the following numbers:

Radius x Radius x 3.14 x Average Depth x 7.5 = gallons of pond water.

For Shaped Ponds multiply the following numbers:

Average Length x Average Width x Average Depth x 7.5 = gallons of pond water.

How much money should I invest in my pond?

You can spend as little as $100.00 for a small water garden with plants while spending anywhere from $1,000.00 to $10,000.00 for full size water gardens with filters, lights, waterfalls, plants, statuary and fish. A pond addition to the home is an investment that pays for itself. It not only provides enjoyment year round but can also possibly add property value. If desired, the home owner can also have a professional contractor to install the water garden. If that is the case, discuss budget and options.

Liners

What kind of liner should I use, flexible or preformed?

Preformed liners are compact and neat. These are very good to use if space is limited. On the other hand, if abundant space is available, then the flexible liner would be the way to go. This will give you the options of having a larger pond, more shape, depth and you can incorporate more shelf space for aquatic plants.

FAQs specifically for our Liners

Which side should go up?

We recommend that the coarse side should face up. This will allow beneficial bacteria to grow in the pores of the liner.

What type of material is it made of?

It is a PVC liner with composite reinforcement web, resulting in a 13mil thickness.

How do you mend two liners together?

There are seaming tapes available as well as commercial grade glues. Extra care and precautions should be taken to prevent leaks and ensure the safety of your fish and pond life.

Filters

Do I need to use a filter in my pond?

Yes, filters help minimize maintenance for the owner. There are two types of filters recommended for the water garden. 1. A pump filter to protect and hide the pump while removing dirt and debris from the surface. 2. A pond filter helps in keeping the water safe for plants and fish. What kind of filter is going to be the best for my pond?

This is a question that will have to be answered a little bit more extensively as this largely depends on what type of pond you have or planning to have. The question you have to ask yourself is; “Do I plan on stocking my pond with ornamental plants or ornamental plants with fish”?

The following should give you a better understanding of the different types and functions of filtration products available:

Pump Filter – If your pond solely contains ornamental plants or if you are looking for a pre-filter for your pump, then the mechanical filter is what you most likely will need. Its primary function is to separate large particles and debris while also protecting the pump.

Pond Filters - If you are going to incorporate fish into your pond and want to provide a safe healthy environment, then a biological filter is one of the best options you can use. These filters allow beneficial bacteria to gather and colonize which in turn help convert toxic nitrites into helpful nitrates. These nitrates are then used by plants. Biological filters typically clean the water using mechanical filtration as well as removing toxins from the water. They are very popular as being the sole filtration source because they serve both purposes.

FAQs specifically for our Pond Filters

Pond Filter -Can the filter be submerged in water?

Yes. The filter can be submerged in the water.

Pond Filter - I’m not getting enough pressure.

Ensure that all fittings are snug and that there is no blockage inside the filter. Also check the flow control setting on the pump. Trim the tubing adapters to maximize flow (see instructions).

UV Pond Filter - Can it be submerged in water?

Yes. The filter assembly can be submerged. Be sure that the lamp holder (on the clarifier) has been secured to the light housing.

UV Pond Filter - How soon should it take effect?

It depends on the specific environment but usually you can see results between 3 to 7 days.

UV Pond Clarifier -

Ultraviolet clarifiers are not normally considered to be filters but are usually used in combination with or actually inside the filter itself. UV clarifiers are designed specifically to combat the problem of green water due to algae, bacteria and other microorganisms that flow through the clarifier. The clarifier then returns clear, safe water back to the pond. The unit itself consists of an ultraviolet light bulb housed inside of a quartz sleeve and contained within a filter or PVC housing. Any cells contained in the thin layer of water that flows over the quartz sleeve will be exposed to the UV light and killed. The beneficial bacteria growing on the media inside of the filter or on the bottom of the pond are never in danger of being harmed or killed by the clarifier because they are stationary and will not pass over the bulb. Only suspended algae, bacteria and parasites are affected. A common misconception is that string or filamentous algae will be killed after installing a UV light. This type of algae usually covers and clings to a substrate and will not be drawn into the clarifier. Clarifiers do require seasonal maintenance. Be sure to check the quartz sleeve for obstruction and replace the UV bulb every season even if it appears to be working. Reason being, they can lose their effectiveness over time.

Check out our UV Pond Clarifier!

FAQs specifically for our UV Pond Clarifier

Can it be submerged in water?

Yes, the clarifier can be submerged in water. Be sure that the lamp holder has been secured to the light housing.

How can you determine if the light is working?

With the clarifier plugged in and the lamp holder secured to the light housing, remove the locking nut and tubing adapter on the outlet end of the light housing. If the clarifier is working, a blue light will be visible. If not, the light is not working.

What’s the life expectancy of the bulb?

The bulb should be replaced at the beginning of every season to ensure its efficiency.

How soon should the unit take effect?

It depends on the specific environment but usually you can see results between 3 to 7 days.

Will it eliminate string algae?

No. String algae should be removed with a net or by hand with water proof gloves.

Will it harm the fish?

No.

Where can the replacement bulb be purchased?

At Lowes. Look for Model #PCRB

Pumps

Do I need a pump for my pond?

Yes. Water movement in the pond maintains a healthy, well balanced environment. It also enables you to create an impressive water feature, i.e. fountain nozzles, waterfalls, streams, statuary, etc. The pump recirculates the pond water and insures that oxygen levels remain evenly distributed throughout the pond. Also, the pump will prevent stagnation which can lead to unpleasant odor and prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs on the surface.

What type of pump do I need for my pond?

There are quite a few different types of pond pumps. Pond pumps are usually categorized by the way they work. Some pumps are classified as magnetic or long life pumps which we will go through shortly. Also, pumps are classified by the way they perform, either submersible or external also known as in-line. Whichever pump(s) you choose for your pond, please make sure the pump is suitable and recommended for pond use. Pumps that are not designed for ponds usually are not efficient and can burn out quickly...sump pumps and aquarium pumps are widely used in place of pond pumps and usually do not stand up to running on a constant basis.

What is a magnetic driven pump?

Magnetic driven pumps tend to be the best pump for maintaining pond functions. In a magnetic driven pump, the electricity from your outlet creates an electromagnet that drives an impeller and magnetic shaft. When the mag-drive pump is plugged in, the magnetic shaft and impeller will spin in the magnetic field created by the electromagnet to push water through the outlet of the pump. This method of pushing the water tends to be far more energy efficient than in other comparable pumps. Mag-drive pumps are perfectly safe for ponds stocked with fish as there is no danger of oil leaks and they are completely sealed and do not need oil for lubrication due to their innovative electromagnet-driven mechanism. The draw back however is, they are very limited to pushing water to significant head heights. In the event that a mag-drive pump was to stop working, replacement parts are commonly available and are easy to install. Most often, the only repair needed on a mag drive pump is the magnetic shaft and impeller as it is the only moving part.

Check out our Magnetic Drive Pumps:

What is a Long Life pump?

These pumps offer efficiency, performance, and long life together in one package. Also known as "wet bearing / wet rotor" pumps, these pumps are a hybrid of mag-drive and direct drive pumps. They have the efficiency of mag-drives and exceed the performance of direct-drives; all without the drawbacks of either types of pump. The long life is attributed to the ceramic bearings & shaft, and cooler operating temperature. They work well for different sized ponds as well as waterfalls, and are also safe for fish.

Check out our Long Life Pumps:

What size pump do I need for my pump?

When choosing a pump for your pond, there is a relatively easy formula for you to use. Basically, what you are looking to do is turn half of the total water volume in your pond once an hour. So for example, if your pond has a total of 1,000 gallons of water, you would probably need to use a pump with a G.P.H. (gallons per hour) rating of 500 gallons.

FAQs specifically for our Pumps

Are the pumps oil filled?

All smartpond® pumps are oil free.

If the flow control is adjusted to the lowest setting, will that cause harm to the pump?

No, this will not harm the pump.

If the pump is laid on its side, will that cause any harm to the pump?

No, this will not harm the pump as long as the pump’s intake is not blocked or obstructed.

Can the pump be used outside of the pond?

No. All of our pumps are designed to be fully submerged in fresh water. Running the pump outside of the water will cause the pump to overheat.

Why do you recommend using the pump in fresh water only?

To prevent chemical attack which could be harmful to the pump’s working components.

Can the pump be used in a swimming pool?

No. We do not recommend using the pumps in swimming pools for the reason that the pool chemicals could damage the working components of the pump.

What is the difference between a magnetic-drive pump and a long life pump?

The fountain pump is usually a magnetic-driven and designed to run on & off when desired by the fountain owner. The pond pump is usually a long life pump that is designed for more continuous operation and greater performance.

Am I using the correct size pump?

The rule of thumb is to turn the entire pond over at minimum once every 2 hours. For example, a 500 GPH pump should be sufficient for a 1,000 gallon pond.

Can I leave the pump in the pond during the winter season?

Yes, in most cases, as long as the pond does not freeze over completely. See winterization tips.

How can I calculate the amount of electricity it will take to run my pump?

See power consumption calculator.

What size pump do I need for my waterfall?

Generally is its better to buy a larger pump than needed because the flow of the pump can be throttled down to the desired flow.

Fish

Do I need to put fish in my pond?

No, you do not have to add fish to your pond but they are beneficial by eating mosquitoes and pond algae. They also add color beauty and personality to your pond.

How many fish can I place in my pond?

Usually a pond that is set up with a good filtration system and an adequate variety of plants to maintain a healthy ecosystem can support 5 inches of fish for every 5 square feet of surface area. So for example, if your pond is 10 feet wide by 10 feet long, your pond would be 100 square feet. Based on that, your pond should be able to safely accommodate about 20 five-inch fish.

What should I feed my fish and how often should I feed them?

Basically, a good start and rule of thumb until you understand your fish’s eating habits would use this basic guideline: Provide enough food to be eaten within the first 1 to 3 minutes of feeding. Also, you should not feed the fish when the water temperature drops below 55 degrees Fahrenheit because the fish’s slower metabolism will not be able to process the food. Depending on what variety of fish you choose to stock in your pond, you should refer to manuals and consult with a fish specialist to arrange a specific seasonal diet feeding and schedule.

How soon can I put fish in a newly established pond?

It is probably best to wait 5 days after the pond has been established with the pump and filter in operation.

How can I avoid purchasing unhealthy fish?

Here are some things to look for to see if the fish you want to purchase are unhealthy: raised scales, a swollen abdomen, bulging eye balls, over larged head, ulcers, lack of movement, loss of balance, damaged fins and scales, fungus growths, or the fish is continuously scratching itself against rocks or other objects.

How do I choose healthy fish?

A few things to look for in healthy fish are: a lively disposition, erect fins, bright colors, good balance when swimming and a good appetite.

Check out our Selection of Fish Foods

Plants

What kind of plants do I need to put in my pond?

There are 3 basic types of plants that are commonly used in the pond. They include:

Floating Plants – This type of plant include Hyacinth, Lilies, etc. They are useful in the respect that they add beauty, block out sunlight keeping water temperature cool and help prevent algae growth.
Bog Plants – This type of plant includes Cattails, Grasses, etc. These plants are potted and placed with the pot just below the surface usually on a pond shelf. They add a tall background to the pond landscape.
Submerged Plants – This type of plant includes Anachris, Hornwort, etc. These plants are placed on the bottom of the pond which takes them out of view but contribute considerably by producing oxygen. They also offer some filtration to the pond as well.

Check out:

How many plants should I put in my pond?

Floating plants should cover anywhere from 50% - 70% of the pond surface at the peak of the summer. So it would be a good idea to start with 20% - 30% coverage and let them reach optimum level in the season. Bog plant varieties will also propagate as the season goes by. Submerged plants should be treated the same as the Floating Plants.

Winterization

What should I do with my fish and plants in the winter time?

In the northern U.S. and Canada when the temperature dips down into the freezing range, fish and plants can be left outdoors to hibernate naturally. The pond should have a recommended depth of at least 2 feet and install either a surface aerator or a heater just enough to keep a hole in the ice. This allows oxygen in for the fish and plants and also allows any toxins to escape. Also, you should try to clean out as much debris as possible before the pond ices over.

A pond de-icer is designed to keep open a vent hole in the ice to release the harmful gases from underneath. Even the smallest of holes will suffice. By allowing your pond to completely freeze over during the winter months, the harmful gases produced by fish waste and plant decay cannot escape the ice, becoming deadly to your costly fish and plants.

Check out our Floating Pond De-icer!

Lighting - FAQs specifically for our Lights

Should the transformer be submerged in the pond?

No. The transformer is not designed to be submerged. Therefore, it should be placed in a dry discreet location outside of the pond.

Is the transformer designed to withstand normal weather conditions?

Yes, the transformer is designed to be an outdoor transformer, and is able to withstand normal weather conditions. But to ensure its life expectancy, take measures to keep it dry and protected in cases of extreme weather conditions.

Is it possible to extend the power cord between each light?

No, extending the power cord will compromise the insulation of the wiring and damage the light.

Can the bulb be replaced?

Newer LED-style lights: No, the LED’s cannot be replaced. Under normal conditions, the LED’s will have a much longer life expectancy than a normal halogen bulb.

Older halogen-style lights: Yes. Lowes and most retailers should carry a replacement bulb. Simply take the bulb into the retailer to ensure the exact type of bulb.

Can the lights be used around the pond or yard as a decorative item?

Yes. They are designed to be submerged to reflect the underwater pond environment as well as the landscape settings in the yard.