Koi Pond Pumps and Plumbing

Koi Pond Pumps and Plumbing

Pumps and plumbing must be sized to accommodate the water flow needed for a pond. Plumbers and pool experts generally agreed and recommended the gallons of water flow per hour is equal to or must exceed the total pond volume in gallons.

Pumps can be submersible or external type pumps. Both work effectively well however as the pond owner you should be knowledgeable about the costs of operation and the amount of power required by the pumps. My advice is- don’t swat at flies when elephants are marching by-in other words it is impossible to have Koi as a hobby and worry about the costs operating the pond pumps; don’t get caught up in the de minimis.

Operation costs are on manufactures specification sheet

Pond pumps are low pressure/high volume pumps they pull considerably less amperage than pumps designed for swimming pools and sump pumps however in Las Vegas Nevada I would strongly urge you to invest in swimming pool pump. 

Pond operation: Pumps in Koi ponds should operate continuously with a back-up pump when your primary pump requires maintenance. Clear water is not necessarily quality water; therefore pond water should be tested for ammonia and nitrites on a regular basis and corrective measures taken immediately when they are detected.

Constant aeration is vital in summer months, since warm water hold little oxygen as compared to cold water. Koi can die rapidly when water flow and aeration ceases-for just an hour in Las Vegas so that is why I recommend backup systems including a gas auxiliary generator.

It is advisable to consider alternate aeration methods when your systems fail

In an emergency, hydrogen peroxide (available at any drug store and many other local stores) can be added to the pond water to supply oxygen have these supplies on hand and replace as used.

·        A dosage of 1/2 cup per 100 gallons;

·        3% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) will provide oxygen;

·        for approximately 4 hours;

·        Example 2,000-gallon pond;

·        10 cups of hydrogen peroxide every 4 hours will be needed until your emergency has ended:

Essential Koi Pond Supplies

Koi Fish and outdoor ponds and essential supplies

As a new Koi pond owner, you may be overwhelmed with the amount of supplies needed to properly maintain your Koi pond. While the importance of the majority of these items cannot be denied, the feeling of being overwhelmed by the amount needed should be disregarded. Simply knowing the function of each item can help you understand why they are needed.

There are certain items that you need to have on hand at all times. Because you pond is outdoors, emergency situations do occur. Nature is simply unpredictable at times, and you do not want to be caught in a situation where an item is needed, but they is no way to obtain it.

Filters- Having a working filter is essential for removing unwanted pollutants, and maintaining proper water quality. If you do not have a proper filter, water quality issues can occur, which in turn will cause your fish to have health issues.

Pump- A pump is essential to the health of your pond. If you water is not moving, there is no way the system can process the water. Moving water can also be from waterfalls, fountains, and other water features, but in no way should completely replace your pump.

Dechlorinator- Tap water contains chemicals that can potentially harm your fish. When adding new water for any reason, you must add Dechlorinator to eliminate these chemicals.

Test Kits- You will need to have ammonia and nitrite test kits on hand at all times. You will need to perform weekly water tests on your water to ensure proper water quality. Emergency tests may also be needed in the event that you notice discrepancies in your Koi behavior or in the water.

Pond Salt and Baking Soda- Pond salt and baking soda are used to regulate kH and Nitrate levels in the event that you find a discrepancy. Pay close attention to the amounts you are suppose to add to your pond, which depends on size and the issues you are currently having.

Bags- You must have the proper bags on hand to transport Koi. Do not attempt to transport your Koi in trash or regular plastic bags, as they are not designed for this, and may cause damage to your Koi. Unless you remembered to keep the bags you brought your koi home in originally, you will have to make a trip to your local pet store. Make sure to get bags sizable enough to hold your Koi.

Rubber Bands- You will need quite a few rubber bands for each bag you buy. Make sure that your rubber bands are good quality, as you do not want the pressure from the water to pop the rubber band in the middle of the transport.

Net- You will need to have a net sizable enough to compete with your Koi. You will never need the net to pull the Koi out of the water with, but you will need it to lead and direct your Koi into the place you want them. Nets can potentially damage your Koi, especially as the larger they get.

Large Paint Bucket- A paint bucket is a better option for catching your Koi, as they cannot hurt your Koi like a net can. Make sure that your bucket is sizable enough to hold your Koi.

Koi Staple Food- Like any other pet, Koi need to be fed daily. Talk with your local pet store or Koi dealer when picking foods for your Koi, as different seasons may dictate the type of food you need to be feeding. Koi have even been known to eat out of their owner’s hand, so make sure to get food in which you are able to do this with.

Koi Treats and Snacks- Like other animals, Koi delight in treats, and will respond in a playful manner to them. Specific Koi treats are available at your local pet store. If you do not mind feeding “human” food to your pets, you may even consider feeding your Koi veggies, fruit, and bread.