How to Build a Pond Filter

Clean pond water is important, especially if you have koi fish.

Pond filtration systems are expensive -- the better ones cost at least $100 in 2010. If that seems a steep price to you, make your own pond filter system for about $20. Your homemade filter is just as effective as a commercial filter system, is easy to maintain and will last for years.

Things You'll Need

• Shallow plastic storage bin with lid
• Drill with spade bit
• Pool pump
• Quilt batting
• Large flat rock(s)

Instructions

1. Drill 12 to 15 holes in the lid and sides of the bin to allow water to flow into the homemade filter.

2. Drill or cut a hole, in the middle of the lid, large enough for the fountain head to fit through.

3. Cut a small notch out of the upper lip of the bin to accommodate the pump cord.

4. Place the pump in the center of the bin and run the cord through the notch.

5. Trim the quilt batting to fill the empty spaces around the pump in the bin, then lock the lid in place.

6. Drop the bin filter to the bottom of the pond and plug it in. You may need to place a heavy, flat rock or two on the lid to keep it submerged.

7. Clean the filter batting at least every two weeks -- more often if needed. Shut off the pond pump, take the filter out of the pond and remove the quilt batting.

8. Rinse well with a jet sprayer hose attachment, or run it through the rinse cycle of your washing machine, on cold, without detergent. Do not run it through the dryer.

9. Return the wet batting to the filter and drop it to the bottom of the pond.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase "high-loft batt," which is quilt talk for the thickest batting. Quilt batting made of cotton, polyester or a cotton/poly blend all work well for this project.

• Remove your homemade filter for the winter.

References

• Backyard-Pond-Guide.com: Homemade Pond Filter