Basic Filter Types

Typical Pump Fed Filter Systems
There are two main types of filtration systems. Pump fed and Gravity fed. The difference between the two is: In a pump fed system the water is sucked from the pond and pumped to the filter. After filtration it spills back into the pond (possibly via a waterfall) thereby completing the cycle. In the pump fed system a submersible pump with a pre-filter may be placed in the pond (near the bottom) to suck out water. Alternativley a surface mounted pump could be used by installing pipework to its suction side, drawing water via a pre-filter in the pond and then pumping up to the filter.

One main advantage of a pump fed system is that the filter is mounted above ground and pond water level. Very useful when floor space is unavailable or unsuitable. If a waterfall is required the outlet from the filter can supply the waterfall. Installation is less labour intensive as they do not need to be sunk into the ground and the pipework is simpler. Picture key is at foot of page

Filter System Identification Key

  1. Pre-filter Used to extend pump maintenance intervals buy preventing, debris, newts, frogs etc. being sucked into the pump
  2. Submersible pump. Sucks water from the pond and pumps it through the UV to the filter.
  3. lexible Pipe. Routes the water from the pump to the UV.
  4. UV Algae Master. For the control of green water algae.
  5. Magnetic venturi. Oxygenates the water and helps to prevent limescale and blanket weed.
  6. Pump fed filter For mechanical and biological filtration. To colonise bacteria (for biological filtration), removes waste and improves water quality.
  7. Filter return. Return flow back to pond. Could be via a waterfall or other water feature.
  8. Water level of pond.
  9. Vacuum pipework. Necessary on installations when larger surface pumps are fitted. Soft and low grade pipe could collapse due to the strong vacuum produced by these pumps.
  10. Surface pump. Normally installed reasonably close to the pond but not submersed or in any position where flooding is possible. These pumps usually pump more water at a greater pressure and tend to be more efficient.
  11. Sump bottom drain installed at the lowest part of the pond where fish waste etc. would normally fall and accumulate

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