!: How to Keep Water Quality High in Fountains, Waterfalls and Ponds

The purpose of a water garden is its pleasing aesthetic appeal. Who wants a fountain, pond or waterfall that is full of algae, fish waste and other unwanted debris? A water garden that is contaminated is not only an eyesore but also a health hazard; especially for children, pets or any other animal that come in contact with it. Filtering the water within your water garden is usually a must.

The three basic types of water filters are chemical, mechanical and biological..... all methods of filtering the water require a pump to circulate the water.

Chemical filtration is the simplest method of water purification; however, it can not be used if there are plants or fish living in the water. This type of filtration involves adding algicides or other water cleaning chemicals to your water. These chemicals then attack and neutralize most of the impurities that are living in your water garden. Chemical water treatments are usually the method of choice for fountains or small ponds that don't have any fish or plants living in them. They are safe and may be used around children, pets and other animals, but be sure to read and follow the directions carefully.

Mechanical and biological filters are the two types of filters used in most ponds and waterfalls, because they are fish and plant friendly.

Mechanical filters: The main function of a mechanical filter is to trap and remove the large particles of suspended matter that can build-up and cloud the water in your pond or waterfall. Simply put, these filters are a straining mechanism that will trap algae,, fish waste, uneaten fish food and other organic materials. Water is usually pumped through a box or cylinder that contains a combination of filter padding, screens, brushes and activated carbon or zeolite. The waste is removed and as the water flows back into your water garden, your cloudy water will become clear. Mechanical filters are less expensive than biological filters, but they are prone to clogging and require frequent monitoring and cleaning.

Biological Filters: The main purpose of this type of filter is to change organic pollutants into non-toxic substances. A biological filter usually contain 2 or more layers of gravel, or gravel like material, that are interlaced with large colonies of live bacteria. As the water slowly passes through the filter the bacteria change the algae, harmful pathogens, and ammonia in the fish waste into nitrates. These nitrates are then absorbed by plants as nutrients. All biological filters must have a constant flow of water moving through them; the oxygen within the water is necessary to keep the bacteria alive. Biological filters are usually contained in a tank-like enclosure and are located outside the pond; therefore the tank will need to be somehow hidden or disguised. Despite the fact that biological filters need to run constantly they actually use less electricity than a mechanical filter, and need to be cleaned about once a month.

Your work is not finished when you install your pond, waterfall or fountain; maintenance is an ongoing concern. Left unattended your water garden will become unsightly and toxic. Be sure to give it the attention that it needs, and you will be rewarded with a beautiful and relaxing water feature.