The Top 10 Basic Pond FAQ’s and Answers to Them

1. Q: How much does a garden pond kit cost?
A: Pond kits generally range from $500 up to $4000 and more. But like anything else, the cost will depend a lot on what kind and what size pond you have in mind.

2. Q: How much electricity does a garden pond use?
A: Depending on the pump, you will spend between $10 and $50 a month (per pump) on additional electricity. Most people hardly notice the monthly increase in their bill.

3. Q: How much maintenance does a garden pond require?
A: Your system will need a 100% clean-out a minimum of once every three years. Depending on your surroundings and the individual characteristics (size, location, etc.) of your pond, maintenance typically requires less than 10 minutes a week.

4. Q: Can I let my pond run all winter long?
A: Yes, many people do in order to witness the beautiful ice sculptures that form in and around the waterfalls. But if you do, you’ll need to keep an eye on the water level. Occasionally ice dams form in the stream, and they will push the water out of your pond. This will cause your water level to drop and it also creates problems for your pump. So if you decide to keep you system running all winter, keep a close eye on the water level and don’t let it get too low.

5. Q: How often does my garden pond need to be cleaned out?
A: We recommend that you do a clean-out once a year, in the spring. This spring clean-out gets your pond up and running on sound footing right out of the gate, and sets the stage for a totally successful pondering season.

6. Q: Does the pond need to be drained frequently?
A: No, the ONLY time a pond should be drained is during a spring clean out. You see, cleaning a pond out destroys most of the beneficial aerobic bacteria that your balanced aquatic ecosystem depends on. And when you do this, you’re effectively going back to square one every time and starting over. So save your cleanouts for once a year in the springtime, and eliminate headaches and unnecessary cost.

7. Q: Are increases in wildlife common when you put in a backyard pond?
A: Yes. Creating an aquatic ecosystem invites wildlife, that is great fun to watch, into your yard. These critters will range from squirrels and birds, to raccoon and even deer. In regard to raccoons, they can swim, but they’re not normally inclined to. And most fish are savvy enough to spot a predator like this on the shore and avoid his reach by diving to the bottom of the pond until he leaves.

8. Q: I’ve heard that ponds and trees don’t mix. Is that true?
A: Trees are an important part of any mature landscape. However, for the pond owner there are advantages and disadvantages that come with nearby trees. A properly located tree provides shade and reduces algae. A tree also gives a new pond a look of maturity. On the other hand, trees shed leaves every year, and a large portion will end up in your pond. If leaves sink to the bottom for long, they’ll decay. Decaying leaves add to the biological load placed on the filtration system, and can upset the pond’s balance. Using a pond net in the fall works nicely.

9. Q: Can too much bacteria hurt my system?
A: While it may hurt you pocketbook, it’s impossible to harm your system by adding too much bacteria. Stick to the directions on the side of the box and you’ll do just fine.

10. Q: Will my garden pond need a UV light?
A: When the ecosystem is balanced, there’s little need for a UV light. On the other hand, if your pond lacks a good filtration system, a solid circulatory system, rocks and gravel all over the bottom, fish, and enough plants, your pond will be imbalanced, and may require you to buy UV lights. Also a new COST EFFECTIVE alternative to UV’s called Magic Mats were recently introduced to the market. Magic Mats are filter pads that are treated with a special coating, and when placed in your skimmer they do everything a UV light does (and more) and this line is allowing some manufacturers and the installers who use their equipment to offer a clear pond guarantee with their pond kits. Magic Mats are not only functional, but extremely cost effective when compared to UV lights.