How to Install a Bio Filter for a Pond

Now that you have your pond installed, how do you keep your fish healthy? Biological filters use bacteria to break ammonia and nitrites down into nitrates. High ammonia and nitrite levels can kill fish.

Things You'll Need

• Internal (submersible) filter
• Pumps
• Exhaust hose
• Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)

Instructions

1. Locate the filter where it will be easily accessible. You will need to clean the pads regularly.

2. Use an internal (submersible) filter for small ponds; large ponds require a higher capacity pump, which is easier to service if installed above ground (external).

3. Set a submersible filter where the intake will not be obstructed with plants or mud. Put an external filter on a solid, flat surface pondside.

4. Allow the exhaust hose (the one leaving the pump) to stay submerged at the bottom of the pond, or hook it up to a fountain, waterfall or spraying sculpture.

5. Make sure the outlet you use is a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). This type of outlet has a built in circuit breaker that will trip if it detects a fault or current leak.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that a bio filter alone is not enough. Ponds need circulation and oxygen as well.

• More sun means more algae ' size your filter accordingly.

• An adequate system should be able to filter ½ of the water in the pond in one hour.