External Pond Pumps

Select the Right Water Pump for Your Pond

Choosing the right water pump for your pond can make all of the difference in the world. Just because a pump may cost less, it is not always the way to go.

The most important thing to remember is the electrical usage when looking for a water pump for your pond.

In order to maintain a healthy environment for your koi pond or water garden, you must run your water pump through your filter 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

So, it is important to pick the right water pump for your koi pond or water garden. Water pumps have variances in electrical usage and electrical costs. Here at Tropic Bay Water Gardens, you'll find the correct water pump to match your pond or water garden. Call (410) 793-4776 or visit us in Davidsonville, MD.

The Benefits of an External Pond Pump

External pond pumps can be far more energy-efficient. However, be careful not to include a typical swimming pool or spa pump into this category as pool and spa pumps can be huge energy hogs. As a general guide, always check the amperage of the pump you are considering. Anything drawing over 10 amps will also draw a significant amount of cash from your pocket every month in electrical costs.

The external pumps we are referencing are designed specifically for ponds and water gardens and are engineered for energy efficiency.

For comparison purposes, a typical 4,000 GPH (gallons per hour) submersible pond pump will typically draw between 10 amps all the way up to 15 amps, depending on the brand. In contrast, a comparably rated external pond pump will deliver 4,000 GPH (gallons per hour) and only draws 2.3 amps. The resulting difference in energy consumption is 75 percent less than that of the submersible pond pumps.

When you start getting into larger ponds (1,000 gallons up to 20,000 and above), it’s usually a good idea to look into more energy-efficient pumps.

Further Benefits of External Pumps:

• Easy to clean without getting your hands messy
• Come with a removable leaf trap which clog less often
• Easy to hook up to bottom drains or surface skimmers
• Generally, external pond pumps last longer and are easier to repair

Determine the Cost of Your New Pump

The following formula will assist you in determining how much you will spend (approximately) per month to run the pump you select:

• Amps x Volts = Watts
• Watts x 744 and divide by 1000 = KWH per month
• KWH per month x Cost per KWH (located on your electric bill) = Cost per month