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Water Feature - Choosing a Pump

A water feature is a great addition to any backyard, but for it to function properly, it is likely that you will need a pump.  We’ve put together what you need to know.

Why Do You Need A Water Pump?

Whether or not you need a pump is dependent on the type of water feature you have and what it is being used for.  Water features that have running, spouting, spilling, bubbling, or shooting water will need a pump, as will ponds, as ponds require that the water be constantly moved in order to prevent it from stagnating.

What Type of Pump Will You Need?

The type of pump that you need will depend on the amount of water that needs to be moved through the water feature.  Other factors to consider include where the water feature is and how much noise it makes.  For example, you would want a quieter pump if your water feature is located near an entertaining or living area.  There are pumps to suit different budgets but be aware that the cheaper pumps usually make more noise.  Quieter pumps cost more but they also have the advantage of being more durable, more efficient, and are made to a higher standard.

The Water Flow Rate

The most important factor when it comes to choosing a pump is the amount of water that it moves.  This is called the water flow rate.  No matter which water pump you choose, you should ensure that it is capable of moving more water than what is currently needed.  Having additional capacity is a valuable thing as it will give you the freedom to make adjustments to your water feature in the future.  Most water pumps will give you a satisfactory fountain of water but if you require a waterfall or have a water wall feature, you will need a stronger pump.  A general guide is that the more height, and the more water that needs to be moved, the stronger the pump will need to be.  If you are putting your pump in a pond, ensure that the pump is equipped with a filter.

Most water pumps today are fully submersible.  They are made up of a self-contained sealed unit that draws water through a simple filter and pushes it out through an outlet pipe.  The filter collects the particles of debris in the water and it needs to be regularly removed and cleaned.  The pump is fitted with a waterproof cable that extends well beyond the edge of the water feature for attachment with a waterproof connector.

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