4 Common Pond Filter Problems and How to Solve Them
Pond filters are a natural necessity in a pond’s ecosystem as they create clean water and give the pond its aesthetic value. Nevertheless; like virtually all pond apparatus, pond filters are not immune to issues. When it comes to filter issues clogged filters or poor water quality–it’s helpful for an owner to understand how to address some of the more common problems that may arise concerning his pond. Below, you see five typical issues related to pond filter and their solutions.
1. Poor Water Flow or Circulation
Some of the most frequently experienced problems in pond filters are low water flow or poor water circulation. This can be expected when the filter becomes choked with dirt and other debris hence making the efficiency of the system low. Low water circulation leads to the water being stagnant and will be a breeding ground for algae which is not good for fish and plants.
Solution: The latter filter also has a filter indicator so one needs to check the filter frequently and clean or replace the filter media depending on the indicator’s condition. Remember to remove chips around the pump and the intake to allow free water circulation. Here, pump size should also be listened to, in order to match it to your pond requirements. This is especially so if you discover that the flow rate is low; you may have to buy a pump with a higher capacity.
2. Excessive Algae Growth
Aquatic plants particularly becoming widespread in the pond area, and the main cause is usually a lack of proper filtration. If filters are not pulling out sufficient organic matter or nutrients, wildlife including algae produces green and cloudy water. Eventually, algae grow to be a huge nuisance and will even begin to have a significant impact on the well-being of your pond.
Solution: If your pond filter is not doing a great job of preventing algae, your pond system should incorporate a UV (ultraviolet) clarifier. All algae cells are eliminated when water is passed through it hence keeping the water UV clarifiers clear. You should also see that your filter is appropriately sized for your pond; an undersized filter will be overwhelmed with work. Eliminate the accumulation of dead plants, fallen leaves, and other materials that provide food for the algae.
3. Clogged Filter Media
Filter media indicate that they can be blocked with particles, sediments, and organic materials sometimes. A clogged filter reduces the water flow rate and filtration ability and puts much pressure on the pump resulting in early wear or damage.
Solution: It is advisable to clean the filter media to reduce the number of restricted particles entering the air, thus regular cleaning of the filter media should be observed. Alternatively, the media can be rinsed with pond water which is much preferred to tap water since it contains chlorine that is unsafe for beneficial bacteria. If the media is too dirty or worn out, then the expert suggests that new media should be used instead of the current worn-out one. When using biological filters the media used should be able to provide for sufficient surface area on where beneficial bacteria can grow.
4. Pump Failure or Underperformance
The pond pump is the central unit of the pond filtration system that circulates water through your filter to keep your pond healthy. When your pump is faulty or not working to its full efficiency, then the whole filtration process is compromised, water quality is poor and oxygen level is low.
Solution: You should always inspect your pump for something like a blockage that would include debris or leaves that may hinder the activity of the pump. If the pump is slow add water, and check the impeller for signs of wear or damage then clean the pump. If cleaning is not effective, then there is probably a need to replace it with the right size pump for your pond.
Conclusion
Being knowledgeable about the possible issues that may affect pond filters helps you maintain a clean, clearer, and healthier pond. These problems include poor water flow, algae growth on the water surface, and failure of the water pump among others, maintenance should be conducted routinely. If your pond filter is properly maintained and fed the attention it deserves then you are assured of a well-maintained pond where your fish as well as the plants can thrive.
