Best Pond Pump and Filter System
After looking at several pond pump/filter systems, we’ve found that the best pond pump and filter system is the Aquagarden 5-in-1 model. It comes in various sizes and is suitable for ponds between 200-600-gallons. This is a product that users love due to its simplicity, reliability, and warranty.
It does everything that you would want in a 5-in-1 pump and filter system, and it does it well, making it a reliable product. Just note that there are three different sizes, depending on your needs.
- Instant solution for a clear and healthy pond:...
- A comprehensive range of three fountain heads,...
- The built in 5 watt UV clarifier light kills green...
- The filter contains effective mechanical and...
- Ceramic biomedia - supports large populations of...
Last update on 2024-11-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
For more information on the Aquagarden 5-in-1, see the Product Reviews section below.Runner Up: Best Pond Pump and Filter System
Our runner up choice is the CNZ All-in-one pond pump and filter system. It’s another model almost universally loved by users. This is a lightweight machine that has an ultra-long power cable, which is always a plus. It is easy enough to maintain and clean.
It gets Runner-up position because the lid can be a little temperamental to fit back on. Hopefully, though, it will keep going for many years, as many customers have found. It is generally pretty reliable and compact.
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
For further details on the CNZ Pump and Filter system, see the Product Reviews below.
Budget Choice: Pond Pump and Filter System
For those who want to keep costs down, check out the Pond Boss Pump and Filter Kit. This model boasts to be an eco-friendly kit with an energy efficient pump. It has a sloping lid, which means debris should not settle on the top but instead slide right off, making cleaning a snap.
There is a little assembly when you fit the kit, so keep that in mind. This is a low-cost filter system that still gives all the different elements that you would get from other more expensive models.
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How to Choose the Right Pond Pump and Filter
Pond pumps and filters are incredibly important parts of various garden water features like Koi Ponds, garden pools, back yard waterfalls, and the like. These systems help keep the water clean, which is vital to animals and plants. They also keep the water moving, preventing it from getting stagnant, mosquito-ridden, and gross.
We should note that if you’re just looking for a simple fountain, and not looking to filter your water, you could consider using a solar fountain to accomplish this. These units are super cheap, and will only work when sunlight is directly on them. But if all you’re looking for is some water spray in your pond, they’re a great option.
Determining the Size of Your Pond
In order to figure out what system is right for you, you’ll need to know the approximate size of your pond.
To figure out the general size of your pond, you’ll need to do the following:
- Measure the length, width, and depth of the pond.
- Multiply Length x Width x Depth to get the total volume (in cubic feet)
- Take the total volume number and multiply by 7. This will tell you the total number of gallons of water in your pond.
For example, a pond that is 8′ long x 4′ wide x 3′ deep would contain 96 cubic feet of area (8 * 4 * 3 = 96).
Then take your 96 cubic feet number and multiply by 7 gallons of water per cubic foot (96 * 7 = 672)
In total, this pond would contain 672 gallons of water, approximately.
Consider the Number of Fish You Have
The more fish you have in your pond, and the larger the fish are, the better your filters will need to be. You’ll also need to keep on top of filter changes and cleaning if you have a lot of biomass in your pond.
Does Every Pond Need a Filter System?
Assuming you have fish in your pond, you’ll be dealing with constant waste and uneaten food polluting your pond. Excess food and waste will slowly accumulate, but there are several natural methods of cleaning your pond.
These include adding plants like lily pads, plenty of rocks, etc. By encouraging natural filtration, you’ll reduce the need for mechanical filtration, but you’ll probably not remove it entirely without a lot of work.
What Is Included in a Pump and Filter System?
Most dual pump and filter kits offer very similar functions. Virtually all will consist of the following:
Pump
The pump moves the water through the unit, sending it where you want it to go. Sizes of various pumps vary, as do flow rates, so be sure you find the right pump for your pond’s size.
In each of the reviews below, we identify the flow rate, and the size of the water feature each pump system is appropriate for.
Fountain Head Pattern Fittings
If you intend to use the pump to create a spray fountain, as most do, most pumps come with multiple spray head options to create different patterns.
A Diverter Fitting
A diverter fitting will allow users to divert the water from the pump to a waterfall, or other water feature. Small pond waterfalls, here we come!
Filtering Systems
Virtually all the systems we’ll be looking at in this article feature a multi-stage filtration system. These generally have similar designs, and they consist of the following system.
Foam Layer
As the water is pulled through the pump, it is generally filtered through a multi-stage system. Usually, the first stage is a coarse foam layer that will filter out debris.
Bio-Media Layer
The second stage is usually a bio-media. This stage encourages beneficial bacteria to grow and to outcompete the bad bacteria you’re attempting to get rid of.
UV-Sterilizing Light Filter
As a last phase of cleaning, the water tends to pass through a UV sterilizing light. This kills off any algae bacteria. The end should result in crystal clear water pumped back onto the pond.
Replacing Filters
All of the pumps on this list will need to have their foam filters changed periodically. Most manufacturers sell inexpensive filters that are custom fit to each pump, and for the most part, these filters are pretty easy to change.
How Often Do Filters Need to be Changed?
Much depends on the size of the pond relative to the pump, the number and types of fish in your pond, the number of plants and other animals, etc. It’s hard to say exactly how frequently you’ll need to give attention to your filter, but it’s safe to say you should be cleaning it at least once every few months.
If you have a particularly large pond or lots of fish, or you see that your water is murky, then you’ll want to clean your filters more often.
Barley Straw Filtration
Barley straw can help filter water where water is flowing and can work very well in conjunction with pond filters to further clear water. You can choose barley straw pellets, extract, or straw bales, and your goal is to secure the barley straw in a location near the water flow.
You can secure it with a fishing line, string, or another method, but the general idea is to keep the straw close to the flowing water.
If you’re using straw bales, you should not pull them apart; they’ll function better as clumps. If you’re using pellets, you’ll need to place them in a bag or other container designed for barley straw pellets. If extracts are the way you want to go, simply pour the concentrate into the water at the location of the waterfall or water flow.
Where to buy barley straw for ponds
You can find barley straw on Amazon in various formats.
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Extras
Warranties are always an important consideration when shopping for virtually any mechanical system, as broken pieces can be a significant frustration.
Additionally, extra parts and features can make all the difference, such as the length of electrical cable or even added bits like an outdoor light.
Buyers should take into account how robust the pump and filter is, and how it’s made. As these pieces of equipment that will be submerged in water all the time, they need to resilient, sturdy, and safe.
The following information will provide these details on five of the best pond filter pumps around. By the end, you’ll have a good idea which one will be right for your needs.
Pond Pump and Filter System Reviews
In this section, we’ll look at several different pond pump/filter systems on the market. We’ll start with a comparison table to get oriented, and then move into individual reviews. We’ll conclude with our favorites.
Last update on 2024-11-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Aquagarden 5 in 1 Water Pump and Filter System
Key Points at a Glance
- Comes in various sizes: Small (up to 200 gallons), Standard (up to 300 gallons), Large (up to 600 gallons)
- Large Inlet grill on the top
- Filters: Layer of foam; Wool-pad cartridge; Small ceramic bricks
- Built-in UV light
- LED 1-Watt spotlight, for night time visual enjoyment
- 3 different fountain features
- Built-in safety switch
- Handle for easy mobility
- Includes a 16-ft cable
- 2-year warranty on parts and on pump
Dimensions and Specs
- Voltage: 120V
- Wattage: 12.5W pump
- GPH Flow: 192gph
- Upwards flow: 4-ft 2-inches
The Details
This 5 in 1 aqua-machine offers a pump and various filters for the differing stages. Added to the kit are the fittings for fountain features and a fitted outdoor light. In this particular model, the filters are easily accessible for cleaning.
Pond water is pumped in through the grill at the top. Larger debris will is collected in the top foam filter. The padded cartridge takes out smaller debris and the water flows down to the ceramic bricks. This is where beneficial biochemicals will develop. The good bacteria will settle on the surface of the bricks. Water continues through the UV light clarifier which kills any algae passing through. The result is crystal clear water in your pond.
The machine needs to be submerged, of course. The height of the fountain is adjustable with sectional pieces, and will go up to 4′. While the pond can take a few days to clear, dependent on how murky your water is in the first place, it will stay clear once this filter is up and running.
If it floats at first, gently place a smaller rock on top, but don’t cover the grid. Once the filter is full of water, the saturated water should hold the pump in place without assistance.
If you need to replace your filters, Aquagarden sells replacements fairly inexpensively. Note: be sure to check your size, as they sell different filters for each size.
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Bottom Line
This machine has lots of enthusiastic customer reviews and is quite well built. Though once machine parts have broken, they are difficult to get hold of. Many find that they keep this filter going throughout the winter months, but not if the water ices up.
Overall, the 5-in-1 system is the best pond pump and filter system available. With a solid warranty and three sizes, allowing you to tune the pump and filter to your needs, the Aquagarden is a great choice.
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. CNZ All-in-One Pond Filter System
Key Points at a Glance
- Filtering system includes a coarse foam layer plus 3 bio-filter baskets with filtration media inside.
- Has a built-in 13-watt UV sterilizer lamp, which helps to kill algae, parasites and bad bacteria
- Set of 3 Fountain attachments, with a flow rate regulator for fountain reach between 9-16-ft height flow.
- 32-ft cable with welded plug.
- Warranty is 1 year, though some customers have reported difficulties getting their warranty honored.
Dimensions and Specs
- Product size; 15 x 14 x 6 inches
- Product weight: 5.14 lbs
- Pump size is 110-120v 60 hz which
- Flow Rate: 66GPH.
The Details
The CNZ is ideal for a small to medium-sized pond and has three fountain attachments to allow you to customize your fountain’s look.
A multi-functional water filter system that covers dual tasks. It cleans the water with various filters and pumps water at the rate of 66 gallons per hour (GPH).
The CNZ also has an inbuilt UV sterilizing lamp for algae removal.
For customization, you can choose from various fountain patterns. Alternately, use a splitter by attaching it to the side connection on the fountainhead. Then attach a hose and divert the water down to a waterfall.
The system needs to be fully submerged for all the features to function correctly.
Some customers have indicated that the UV lamp is not functional when they first receive it. If that happens for you, open it up and make sure it’s connected and not sitting loosely. It sits under a plastic cover that needs to be put back on after removal.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The CNZ can be a little difficult to take apart to clean. This is because the safety lid can get shut tight as grime builds up. If it gets stuck, try lifting the whole machine out of the pond and allowing the water to run off first. Once you have managed to take it apart, hose down all filtering baskets and foam pieces. You will also need to unscrew any fountain tubes for cleaning.
This should be done around once a month but depends on your pond set up.
The Bottom Line
Many users sing the praises for this filtering system, expressing that it keeps the pond water crisp and clear. Some find that their pump and filter system runs for years without issues.
Unfortunately, there are no replacement parts available, other than during the warranty period.
You should be able to use replaceable parts for some of it, such as UV bulbs, filter foams, and bio media for the baskets. These are the only parts you can replace from 3rd party manufacturers.
Just understand that if it breaks out of warranty, this pump may need to be replaced completely.
- Reduce algae, Clean Pond water
- 3 Fountain Water Feature Attachments
- Adjustment valve for regulating flow to fountain head and/or auxiliary...
- Includes a large coarse filter foam that water must pass through first...
- The unit is designed to run submerged so you do not have to worry...
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. Patriot Pond Filter System
Key Points at a Glance
- Magnetic pump is quite efficient, and keeps running costs low.
- Sponge filtration pad.
- 9-Watt UV bulb to eliminate algae.
- Bio media included are zeolite crystals and bio balls to build up good bacteria.
- Diverter valve that takes the pumped water to a spitter or waterfall feature.
- Three nozzles if you want to use the fountain feature of tear, jet or bell patterns.
- 25-ft electrical cable.
- 1 –year warranty.
Dimensions and Specs
- Product size: 18.5 x 15.5 x 9.6 inches
- Product weight: 13.85 lbs
- Magnetically pump driven at 525 GPH
The Details
The Patriot Pump is a larger filter system that can clean ponds of up to 1,200-gallons in volume. The zeolite crystals are a great addition for a koi pond to deal with ammonia levels. Whilst the system comes with bio media, you can change it to use your favorite bioproducts.
Assembly is pretty easy, simply follow the included instructions and you’ll have it together in a few minutes. Initially, there is very little that needs doing to get it up and running. Once you have decided on the fountain fittings, position it and plug it in.
If you have a smaller pond, then be wary of the spray fountain on this model. It can send the water to spray in a wide area, sometimes out over the pond’s edge.
Should this happen, change the fountainhead to a tighter spray. You don’t want to be losing water volume from the pond. Also, close the diverter nozzle when not in use, or the water flow will not be as strong for the fountain fittings.
Cleaning and Maintenance
When cleaning, turn off all electrics and remove the clipped lid. Then proceed to remove all inside parts for rinsing down. This is much the same task for any of pumped-filter that is submerged. They can fill with debris, rendering them less efficient at cleaning the pond.
The unit needs cleaning around every 2-4 weeks, though how often you clean your own set up is dependent on your set up. If you have a pond with no living elements in, such as fish or plants, then there won’t be much in the way of waste. Having aqua plants and fish requires keeping the pond much cleaner, to keep them healthy.
The Bottom Line
The Patriot is a solid pump for larger pools. Its best feature is the low running cost of this motor, which is an important consideration. One customer calculated it at 25-cents per day, but that will be dependent on how large your pond is.
- Clean & Clear - 9-watt Clarifier: Eliminates discolored water through...
- Give Your Pond The Best - Zeolite Crystals: Zeolite creates a cleaner...
- Flexibility for Your Pond - Built in Diverter Valve: Water flows to...
- Power & Efficiency - 525 GPH Pump: Extremely energy efficient magnetic...
- A Pump You Can Trust - **Backed by a 2-Year Manufacturer's Warranty!**...
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. Pond Boss Pump and Filter Kit
Key Points at a Glance
- Energy efficient eco-friendly product with monthly operation costs at approx. $1.66 (calculated in 2016)
- Complete with bio-balls.
- Includes 2 filter pads
- Adjustable fountain head
- T-connection diversion fitting to send the water elsewhere, such as a waterfall.
- 16-ft power cable
- Ideal for pond no bigger than 500-gallons.
- 1-year warranty
Dimensions and Specs
- Product size: 7 x 12.4 x 6.2 inches
- Product Weight: 3.9 pounds
- 23Watts-4amp pump at the rate of 320GPH.
- Power: 23 Watts/ 4 Amps
- Flow Rate: 320 GPH
The Details
The Pond Boss pump is a solid pump and filter system for small to medium sized ponds no more than 500 gallons in size.
The main body of this pump has a sloped lid so debris doesn’t settle on it easily. The filter box contains bio-balls to encourage beneficial bacterial growth. Included in the package are two filters.
Additionally, this kit includes a fountainhead nozzle that adjusts to 3 different spraying levels. Plus, you can adjust the height of the fountain to spray, with a maximum reach of 5-feet. If you want to divert the pumped water elsewhere, you will need a ½inch sized tubing (not supplied), to attach to the fitting.
Some find that the fountainhead sprays with too much force, reaching outside the pond area. It could be a case of making sure you have the correct height setting for the spray and ensuring your pump is in the best position.
Other observations are that the box can tip in the water. If this happens, it could be that air has become trapped in the machine. Should you experience this, place a medium-sized stone on the lid to anchor it down better. Do be careful not to block the grid on the lid. Eventually, this should right itself.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Included in this design is a coarse filter pad and a fine filter pad, both for varying sizes of debris collection.
On average, pump and filter cleaning should be around every month in summer, and every other month in colder months. Remember only to clean the filtering products by rinsing them with the pond water. That way you will not kill all the good bacteria that has taken hold. It is recommended to clean the whole system out once a year with a mild detergent.
This is a fresh water pump system and must be submerged and without trapped air if it is to function successfully. The whole kit is easy to assemble. If you want to get a sense of assembly, you can see the instructions here [pdf].
The Bottom Line
The Pond Boss pump and filter kit is an excellent choice for those on a budget, who are looking for a pump system that’s on the small side. It is our budget choice, and with care, will reliably clean your water for years to come.
- Ecofriendly Filter kit
- Energy efficient
- Quiet operation
- Earth friendly
- Combined set costs less than purchasing filter, pump and nozzle...
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. Jebao UIF-2000 All-in-One Fish Pond Filter & Pump below average
No products found.Key Points at a Glance
- 16-ft power cable
- Includes 4 settings for fountain spray
- Includes diverter valve
- Ideal for pond volume of 500-1300 gallons
- 12V, 9W UV lamp included for filtering algae
- 2-layer filtration foam sponge
- Bio-rocks to encourage beneficial bacterial growth
- Warranty 90 days
Dimensions and Specs
- Product size: 16-1/2″ x 13-3/4″ x 6″
- Product weight 12.4 pounds.
- Flow Rate: 500GPH.
The Details
No products found.The Jebao pond and filter pump is a decent pump, capable of handling ponds fairly large in scale — up to 1,300 gallons in size.
It can be set up to spray in a fountain design, which can be adjusted to spray between 12-16.5-inches, or it can be diverted to a waterfall feature.
To divert water away from the fountain head, you will need around 1/2th inch width tubing (not supplied). It attaches to the bottom valve. There is also a valve to adjust the power of the spray which is situated near the fountain stem.
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
As with other similar dual models, the UV light plugs in separately to the pump. Plus, the UV cord has a transformer attached. The UV light is not very visible so it can be hard to check on whether your bulb continues to work or not. The bulb is replaceable if it does go out.
Cleaning and Maintenance
This model is best for the larger pond and will need a good clean out about every 3 months. This entails taking the pump out of the pond, opening it up and completely dismantling it. Once cleaned you will need to reassemble. Finally, make sure the lid clicks back into place and you’re good to go. Beware, the cover can be a little tricky.
It must be completely submerged so the pump and UV lamp can work efficiently.
The Bottom Line
The Jebao pump and filter is a decent pump for ponds that are fairly large, but we have a few concerns with its longevity. It’s only covered under a 90-day warranty, which isn’t great.
There are some customer comments on the impeller, or rotor, breaking down after a while. Unless you know how to replace this, it will render the pump useless. Added to that, many users are indicating that the company’s customer services are not always helpful.
If you’re looking for a fairly cheap pump that works in a large pond, give this one a try, but understand it may not work forever.
No products found.
Conclusion
Buying a pump and combined filter system is an essential piece of kit for your pond. These versatile machines help the water to stay clean, healthy and aerated. These are certainly important requirements for keeping fish and plant life healthy. Or, simply to provide an attractive water feature in your back yard.
The machines that come with a UV light are good at keeping the green algae from growing your pond. Keeping algae at bay will give you crystal clear water, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of pond life.
Using a dual pump-filter may not always be enough on its own, particularly if you have a very large pond. It could mean that you will still need another supplementary filter to keep your pond clear and healthy. The size of the pump indicates what size pond the model can keep clean, so ensure you’ve got the right size before purchasing.
Among our picks, the Aquagarden is our favorite option. It has three size configurations, a great warranty, and a no-nonsense design. Our runner-up, the CNZ pump, is a great choice for small ponds. And our budget pick, the Pond Boss, works well for small to medium-sized ponds, and is positioned at a great price.
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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