Pond filters fulfill the same mission as an aquarium filter: to keep the pond water in good condition for fish and plant life.
The idea is that the pond water should always look clean and clear, with no organic residues that could impair its quality or make it look bad, even bad smelling..,
The two basic functions performed by pond filters are:
- Mechanical filtration. With the mechanical filtration the biggest particles are retained, which dirty the water. It is achieved by making the water recirculate through various filtering materials, which retain in each of the processes the particles in suspension in the water.
- Biological filtration. Exactly as in the aquarium, the filters contain colonies of bacteria that help the nitrification and decomposition of the various waste in the pond: plant debris, biological waste from fish and food waste.
Types of pond filters
In the market we can find different types of filters for ponds, depending on where they are installed.
The most common are:
- Gravity filters
- Pressure filters
- Underwater filters
We can also buy filtration kits. In this case, in addition to the filter, the kit includes the water pump needed for the pond and other accessories, such as the hose.
How to buy the right pond filter
Before we make the decision to buy a pond filter, we should consider several aspects, which will influence the type of filter and its filtering capacity:
- Small or large ponds. The size matters, each filter is designed to move a different amount of liters per hour.
- Pond with fish and plants. Plants are a great ally in the filtration process, as they help to keep algae under control, providing oxygen and consuming nitrogen. Fish are the opposite, they bring more waste to the pond water, so we must take them into account.
- UV-C clarifier yes or no. Some filters mount a UV-C clarifier that is very helpful in keeping the water clean and clear, preventing it from turning green.
It is convenient to keep track of the quality of the pond water by performing periodic maintenance, adding pond bacteria to help decompose organic matter.
One idea that works very well, to keep the pond water clear and clean is to add waterfalls. Besides being a decorative element, they add oxygen to the water.
Best Pond Filter Reviews
OASE BioSmart 5000 Pond Filter
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First up is the OASE BioSmart Pond Filter. This filter is a great starter filter as it is very easy to use and has many beneficial features.
Users can expect a simple setup process and minimal maintenance when using this product. The filter has a built-in cleaning mechanism that allows you to use it for long periods of time without having to clean it manually. You can know when it’s time to give it a good cleaning by the light on the cleaning indicator.
This pond filter can handle medium to large ponds and is capable of filtering up to 5,000 gallons of water. For the price, this is definitely a well-equipped filter.
One downside to the OASE BioSmart Pond Filter is that it currently only ships in the United States. If you live outside of the United States, you won’t have any luck trying this filter for your pond. There are many other filter options available, but this one likely won’t make it to you.
POND BOSS Filter Kit with Pump
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This filter kit from Pond Boss comes with everything you need to build your pond. It includes a filter, pump, and nozzle for a fraction of the cost of buying everything separately. It’s easy to use and is meant for a pond up to 500 gallons.
Not only does this kit keep your pump clean, but it’s also energy efficient and runs quietly. That’s not all, you can also use the included diverter valve to adjust the height of your fountain by simply installing it in the pipe between the pump and the fountain head. This makes it ideal for small ponds.
Two filters are included, a coarse filter and a fine filter, which is great because it lets you choose the best one for your pond. This filter is a great buy, is well made and has worked effectively for years.
Pros
– This kit is a filter, pump and nozzle all in one.
– Since the pump has a diverter, it can be adapted for use in ponds of 500 gallons or smaller.
– Energy efficient design for quiet operation
Cons
– This pump is fairly lightweight and needs one but on the wisdom of keeping it at the bottom of the pond.
TetraPond 26596 Waterfall Filter, Up to 1000-Gallon
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If you already have a pump and are looking for a great waterfall filter, check out this one from Tetra. it’s easy to assemble and provides both biological and mechanical filtration to keep your pond’s water fresh and clean.
One of the great things about this design is that you can easily hide the rocks and other decorations in your pond and create a gorgeous waterfall that provides aeration and gives your pond a very natural look.
The mesh bag allows you to add any biological filter media you like and holds 6 to 8 liters. It is effective for ponds as large as 1000 gallons and can be used with pumps moving between 500 and 4500 gallons per hour.
Pros
-You can easily hide this waterfall design in your pond landscaping.
-It is mechanically and biologically filterable and comes with a bio-media bag.
-The filter is suitable for pumps running between 500 and 4500 GPH.
Cons
-Pumps are not included.
There are a lot of great things about this filter kit from Tetra Pond, but one of our favorite things about it is its versatility. The kit comes with a pump, filter, and fountain attachment with three different display options: spray, foam, and bell.
Also included is a swivel regulator for leveling the fountain nozzle and a diverter for adjusting the assembly, as well as a coarse and fine filter pad. Installation is simple and its design is easily concealed in rocks and plants in the pool.
The product comes with a three-year warranty and comes in three sizes. So whether your pond is under 100 gallons, between 75 and 250 gallons, or between 250 and 500 gallons, there’s one for you.
Pros
-This multi-functional filter can be set up for three different fountain displays: spray, foam and ball.
-It comes with a rotary regulator and a diverter so you can adjust the water flow for your pond settings.
-Pond sizes range from 100 gallons to 500 gallons, with a variety of options.
Goplus Pressure Bio Filter 10000L for Pond Koi Water 4000GAL
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The next pond filter on the list is the GoPlus Pond Pressure Biofilter. This filter is another great option for new pet fish owners to take care of their pond.
It comes with a UV light bulb system that allows you to control the growth of algae in your pond. This helps to clear the water and improve its quality for your fish.
One of the great qualities of this filter is that it has a very tough housing on the outside. Thus, you can place it above ground near your pond or even underground. To add to its versatility, this filter also has an automatic cleaning feature and the ability to filter up to 4,000 gallons of water.
One negative thing about using this filter is that the instructions are a bit difficult. It does have a guide on how to set up the filter, but it’s not very clear, especially for new users. If you don’t know how to use the filter, this may not be the product for you.
Pros
-UV bulb system allows you to control algae
-Rugged housing for added versatility
Cons
No clear instructions