How to Troubleshoot Pond Pumps & Filters

If your pond water isn't circulating properly, you'll need to check your pump and filter for clogs.

Ponds lend a relaxing atmosphere to the outdoors, and allow you to experience fish and aquatic plant life year-round. Pumps and filters keep the water oxygenated and water clear. If you notice that the water isn't going through the fountain pump as normal, or if the water looks unusually cloudy or filled with algae, you may have a problem with your pump or filter. Regularly check the pumps and filters for maintenance issues and keep them clean and in working order.

Things You'll Need

• Rocks
• Hand towels
• Toothbrush

Instructions

Low Flow from the Filter or Fountain

1. Remove the filter from the water and open up the filter housing.

2. Remove any sediment or debris by rinsing the filter under running water.

3. Scrub away any scale buildup with a towel or toothbrush. Rinse the filter with running water again, and close the filter housing.

4. Replace the filter in the water, ensuring that it stays under the surface of the water.

5. Check the fountainhead for debris buildup, and remove with a towel.

Floating Pumps or Filters

1. Remove the pump or filter from the pond, and open up the housing.

2. Fill the empty base housing with small rocks to weigh down the pump. Pumps and filters can't clean the water unless they are submerged.

3. Close the housing and replace the pump or filter back in the water. If the pump or filter still floats, or doesn't stay down enough, add more rocks to the inside, or place a heavy rock onto the underwater cords.

Tips & Warnings

• If you own a solar pump, ensure that the solar panel isn't dirty, fallen over or completely blocked off from the sun.

References

• Pond.com: Pond Fountain
• Sunny Pumps: Sunny 380 Solar Fountain
• Iowa State University Extension: Water Gardens: FAQs

Resources

• The Water Garden: How to Build a Water Garden or Fish Pond