Find the Perfect Pump for Your Pond
Pond Pump Selection Guide
This guide is designed to help you select the right pump to ensure optimal water flow for your pond or waterfall. The following calculation steps will assist you in determining the required pump flow rate (GPH) and head height (ft).
Step 1: Calculate Your Pond Volume
Step 2: Calculate Waterfall Flow Rate
Step 3: Calculate Head Height
Total Pump Requirement
FAQs
Head height refers to the total vertical distance the pump needs to push water from the pond to the highest point of your water feature. It affects pump efficiency and performance.
Formula:
Head Height = Static Head + (Pipe Length × 0.1)
- Static Head: Vertical height from the pond’s water surface to the highest point of the waterfall.
- Pipe Length × 0.1: Adds 1 foot of head height per 10 feet of pipe to compensate for resistance in the piping system.
Example Calculation:
- Static Head = 5 ft
- Pipe Length = 20 ft
- Head Height = 5 + (20 × 0.1) = 7 ft
- Recommended Pump = Flow rate ≥ required GPH, Head height ≥ 7 ft
Yes! Choosing a pump with a slightly higher flow rate than the calculated GPH ensures:
✔️ Better water circulation
✔️ Compensation for natural water loss
✔️ More efficient filtration
Tip:
If your calculation suggests 960 GPH, choose a 1000+ GPH pump to ensure smooth operation.
Your pump should circulate the total pond volume at least once per hour to maintain water quality and oxygen levels.
Guideline:
- Small ponds (< 1000 gallons): Every 30-60 minutes
- Medium ponds (1000-3000 gallons): Every 60 minutes
- Large ponds (3000+ gallons): Every 90-120 minutes
Example:
If your pond holds 2000 gallons, the pump should be at least 2000 GPH.
- Clean the pump intake regularly to prevent clogging
- Remove debris from the filter to maintain smooth water flow
- Check for wear and tear on tubing and fittings
- Winterize your pump if needed (store indoors for freezing climates)
