Monday, September 24, 2012

Knowing a Pond's volume is important!

1) Gallons in a pond will tell you the following:
  • Size of Pond Pump needed for your Pond.
  • Size of Pond Filter needed for you Pond.
  • Approximate number of fish for your Pond.
  • How much treatment to apply for either pond clarity issues or fish health.
2) How to calculate approximate number of gallons in an existing pond:
  • Volume for rectangular ponds: Avg. width x Avg. Length x x Avg. Depth = Pond Volume (cubic feet) Example: 10ft x 12ft x 2ft = 240 cubic feet. 240 cubic feet x 7.5 gal = 1800 gallons
  • Volume for circular ponds: Radius x Radius x 3.14 x depth = Pond Volume (cubic feet)
  • Volume of pond can be most accurately calculated by using a water meter that can be connected to a garden hose while initially filling the pond.

   

Electrical Considerations when choosing a Pond or Fountain Pump

Electrical Considerations when choosing a Pond or Fountain Pump

Pro Tip:

How are amps and watts related?

Watts divided by Volts = Amps
Amps x Volts = Watts

Example:
345 Watts divided by 115 Volts = 3 Amps
3 Amps x 115 Volts = 345 Watts

Installing a Pond Pump

Pro Tip:

 

Pump Installation

Locate the pond pump as close to the source as possible. it is best to have your main (longest) run of pipe on the discharge side of the pump.

Flooded Suction

Install the pond pump out side the pond, and below the surface level of the pond to create a flooded suction. This will help ensure a proper and consistent supply of water to the pump. The pump will not operate properly and may be damaged if the water supply is not constant.

A flooded suction may be returned with a supply line that runs up and over the pond wall and back down below the water surface, as long as all air has been removed from the line.

Non-Flooded Suction

If installation of a flooded suction is not possible, the following is recommended: Position the pond pump as low as possible and as near the source as possible. Install a priming pot on the [um[ inlet. Install a foot valve or a check valve in the inlet below the water level. A;ways prime the entire inlet line, priming pot, and pump before turning it on. DO NOT RUN PUMP DRY!

These suggestions may help you avoid most common installation problems.