Types of Pond Pumps

The pond pump is an important component of a koi fish pond or any decorative stock-free water pond. It is required to keep the aquatic life healthy and vibrant. Such a requirement might be attained by procuring any kind of pump. However, there are other important factors to consider: reliability and energy efficiency. This translates to lower water and electric bills. Let’s take a look at the types of pond pumps.

Types of Pond Pumps

1. Submersible Pond Pumps

This type of pump as implied by its name, is submerged in the pond water. It is the best option for those who would prefer a pump that works silently, out of sight and can work for 24 hours without overheating. Since the pump is located in the cold water, it can never overheat and will not disrupt outdoor activities since no noise is generated.

These pond pumps have been designed to fit any type of pond or water feature. However, they are the best for any pond or water feature of 1000GPM. These pumps are less powerful when compared to other pumps and thus are not ideal for large water fountains.

The submersible pond pump’s key defining features include: it is not noisy, remains hidden under water, and is easy to set up. On the downside this type of pump clogs up easily and requires regular maintenance.

2. External Pond Pump

This pond pump as denoted by its name is placed outside the pond. They are not difficult to maintain since they lie on the dry ground. However, they take up huge upfront costs and are quite complex to install.

The external pond pump is placed on the ground surface and thus generates some noise. It is however very efficient in pumping water at high pressure and at excellent flow rate. It needs the least maintenance but you have to protect it whenever there is a power outage. They are also difficult to install.

The external pond pumps are best suited for small fish ponds. There are also some other powerful models that have been customized to suit larger ponds. You can even get some pumps that can be used as both submersible and external pumps.

The external pond pumps are heavier than submersible pumps and those who dislike this feature conceal the pump behind rocks or leaves. They are more costly initially but in the long they save a lot in terms of electricity usage and maintenance.

3. The Magnetic Drive Pump

This pump is the most popular in the market. It features an electromagnetic feature that rotates an impeller that in turn draws water out of the pond. It is the most energy-efficient and it comes in various sizes that will fit any pond.

4. The Direct Drive Pond Pump

This has been custom-built for greater head heights. It is built with electric motors that drive the impeller that draws out the water. It consumes a lot of energy and is less costly when compared to other pond pumps. It also requires lubrication with oil.

5. The Statuary Pond Pump

This pond pump is the least powerful of all pond pumps. It is mostly used to power fountains, ornamental ponds, and spitters. It is ideal for patio fountains and indoor display.

6. The Solid Handling Pond Pump

This type of pond pump is the best for ponds that have large loads of debris. Its impeller is well-secured from damage and will continue pumping the water irrespective of any difficult condition.

Comparison

Each of these pond pumps has its pros and drawbacks. The external pond pumps last longer than the others since they are easier to maintain. The submersible pump requires regular maintenance since debris clog the motor if left unattended to. If you need a pump that will move larger volumes of water then the external pump wins the day. They come with a flow rate range of 2200 GPH TO 9600 GPH.

In order to get the best pond pump, evaluate the size of your pond and water volume to be pumped. For instance, koi ponds need a pump that can circulate once an hour. You also have to consider the head pressure and the utility cost.

Other Types of Pond Pumps

• The Solar pump – these are powered by solar energy and eliminates the regular electric bills. Solar is also a clean source of energy and therefore it helps conserve the environment.
• Utility Pumps
• Waterfall pumps
• Axial pumps

Examples of Pond Pumps

1. TotalPond Waterfall Pump – designed for waterfalls but can also work for water garden ponds, koi ponds, and fountains. Its key features include; 65 W power consumption, 1200 max GPH, 1 year warranty, and 16 ft power cord.
2. KEDSUM 880 GPH Submersible Pond Pump – works best for a wide variety of applications including: fresh or salt water aquariums, small fish ponds, indoor hydroponic systems, and many others.
3. Alpine PAL3100 Pond Pump – this pond pump can be used as both an external and submersible pond pump. It is ideal for medium size ponds. It is capable of pumping up to 3100 gallons per hour.
4. Atlantic Water Gardens 200 GPH Fountain Pump – generates an impressive fountain in smaller ponds. It is a submersible pump that has all that is desired of a functional and energy efficient pond pump.
5. Patriot KP550 External Pond Pump – this pond pump features an innovative hybrid technology, combining the power of both magnetic drive pump and direct drive pump. It has a variable speed controller for regulating the water flow ad pressure.

A Final Word

In addition to getting the best pond pump, an investment in a good pond filter always proves to be a wise move. You might get some pumps with in-built pre-filter feature designed for blocking debris from entering the pump. You should also consider also a pump with an oil-free motor or impeller. This will not affect the fish and other living organisms within the pond.