QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS.
I don’t know anything about pumps. How do I measure the power/pressure of pump?
Horse Power (HP) ratings designate the amount of energy consumed in a given application. It is NEVER a fair analysis to flow and output.
Amps Watts ÷ Volts
Watts Volts × Amps
1PS 2.31′ Head
PSI Total head divided 2.31
Max Head Maximum lift that pump moves water through tubing.
What is an in-line pump?
In-line pump (non self-priming): This type of pump is often used because it is very energy efficient. Its limitation is that it must be placed below water level. When placed higher than water level a check valve must be installed at the end of the suction line to keep pump in prime.
Self-priming In-line Pump: Does not have this limitation and can more easily placed above water level.
How do I know what size tubing I need for my size pump?
Pipe/Hose Size | Max flow(GPH) |
1/2″ | 300 |
3/4″ | 600 |
1″ | 1000 |
1 1/4″ | 1800 |
1 1/2″ | 2500 |
2″ | 4000 |
3″ | 9000 |
4″ | 12000 |
Why is it important to know a pond’s volume?
Gallons of water in a pond will tell you the following:
- Size of pump for your pond.
- Size of filter for your pond.
- Approximate number of fish for your pond.
How to calculate approximate number of gallons in an existing pond:
- Volume for Rectangular Ponds:
Avg. WIDTH x Avg. LENGTH X Avg. DEPTH = POND VOLUME (cubic ft.)
Example: 10ft x 12ft x 2ft = 240 (cubic ft)
240 (cubic ft) x 7.5* gal = 1800 gallons - Volume for Circular Ponds:
RADIUS X RADIUS X 3.14 X DEPTH = POND VOLUME (cubic ft) - Volume of pond can be most accurately calculated by using a water meter that is connected to a garden hose while initially filling pond. (Best method.)
* There are 7.49 US Gallons in a cubic foot of water.
How do I measure the size of pond liner I need?
Take measurement of pond opening and use the following formula:
LENGTH:
Maximum length + Twice depth + 3′ = dimension #1
WIDTH:
Maximum width + depth + 3′ + dimension #2
This allows for 1 1/2′ of overlap around the pond perimeter.
Example: For 8′ x 10′ Opening that is 2 feet deep:
LENGTH: 10′ + 4′ + 3′ = 17′
WIDTH: 8′ + 4′ + 3′ = 15′
Why add beneficial bacteria to a pond?
Beneficial bacteria provide many benefits to a pond. The THREE MOST IMPORTANT are:
- Helps break down sludge at pond bottom.
- Breaks down ammonia and nitrites (nitrogen cycle)
- Helps green water problems by starving off single cell algae