One of the most common questions we get asked when telling new customers about Ecosystem Ponds is “What sort of filtration do you use on these ponds?”
If, you think you know ponds, then like me when I was first introduced to this system, you will likely find it difficult to be convinced about how effective this system can be, as compared to the bulky and unsightly systems of old, the appearance is of comparatively less ‘filtration’. The key difference here though is that we are working with nature rather than against nature. What this effectively means is that the pond (as a whole) is a filter. This will likely be more concern to a typical Koi keeper though, rather than somebody who simply wishes for a beautiful, one-of-a-kind low maintenance pond in their garden. But, (and if you are a koi keeper) rest assured that there is no more effective filtration system available for your pond.
Most ponds will be built using a Skimmer and Biofalls. Each of these items is available in three different sizes and so with the various combinations available, most ponds can be catered for.
Contrary to a ‘regular’ pond, the pump in an Ecosystem Pond sits within the skimmer. It would seem logical to position your pump at the bottom of your pond (where all the debris goes right?) but the reality is that the debris only goes there because that is where your pump is dragging it to. In addition - anything down there which the pump can’t handle (such as leaves) stay down there and eventually breaks down adding unwanted nutrients to your water. Siting the pump in a skimmer means that all debris is pulled up and into the skimmer unit, meaning waste does not get chance to settle at the bottom of the pond. In addition, all leaves etc which get blown into the pond are quickly pulled from the surface and again collected in the skimmer unit. Cleaning the skimmer is a breeze too – simply lift the (faux rock) lid, take the basket out, where the leaves and debris are collected and easily dispose. Simple! Another benefit of our skimmer system is that the pump is protected by the basket and a further pre-filter, meaning it is very unlikely that it will ever get clogged up.
The Biofalls sits at the head of the Waterfall, and when installed well, it is quite hard to even tell it is there. The base of the unit comprises of a small settlement chamber, and this is followed by dual layers of further filtration. The top of the Biofalls is the source of your new Waterfall!
For large ponds, swim ponds and large ponds well stocked with Koi, your key filtration elements can be upgraded to an Intake Bay in combination with a Wetland.
The Intake Bay works in the same way as a skimmer unit but on a larger scale and is more suited to larger ponds. (Again) when constructed well, they are even more natural-looking than a skimmer set-up.
The Wetland is one of nature’s finest filtration systems and the results really do speak for themselves. A wetland is constructed using a combination of the Aquascape kit along with (often several tons of) varying layers of cobbles and gravel and finished with a sprinkling of some more artistry. One of the most amazing things about them too is that there are no moving parts to go wrong. When we get a call mid-season from a customer whose filter has broken, you can pretty much guarantee that they have an ‘all singing, all dancing fancy external filter’ and not one of these systems.
So, to summarise, no matter what size Ecosystem Pond you choose for us to build for you, rest assured you will have a low-maintenance pond with year-round clear water!