It can be a daunting and confusing task choosing water feature pond pumps due to the variety of manufacturers, styles and sizes available. This is a breakdown of the various pumps available and how they are generally used.

Fountain pumps are the most common pumps available. These pumps are primarily designed to run a fountain in the centre of your pond or water feature. These pumps come with a variety of fountain jets and jet extensions so have a good look around for your desired effect.

Fountain Pump Tip: Avoid using a fountain pond pump to power a filtration system; this will lead to issues with water clarity.

Waterfall pumps can pump free floating debris from the pool and then pass it to a filter system (solids handling). This keeps the pond clear and free of debris. Small particles of blanket weed, fish waste, pebbles and plant matter can go through most of these pumps.

The solids handling capabilities mean maintenance can be reduced to a minimum because these pumps don’t get blocked very often.

Filter Pump Tip: If you want a fountain and filter system in your pond then add a fountain pump and a filter pump. The fountain pump shouldn’t block up because the filter pump will remove all the free floating debris.  

Water features designs are wide and varied from shop bought sculptures to converted watering cans. Feature pumps usually have a high pumping pressure while being small in design so are ideal pumps for water features. Because Feature Pumps are very durable they may be positioned in shallow waters or even dry.  

Water Feature Pump Tip: A deciding factor on which size pump you use for your water feature is the size of the pipe that the water runs through to the top. A larger pump than normal will be required if narrow tubing is used because narrow tubes can cause huge restrictions on pump flow rates. So a wider pipe will save money in the long run.