A pond is a wonderful way of creating a focal point for the garden and adding some life to your outdoor space! But to keep it in pristine condition, you’ll need the right pond filter. With the variety of options available, choosing the best pond filter can be a bit overwhelming, but don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of pond filters and help you find the perfect one for your garden pond.
How to choose the best pond filter
Selecting the right pond filter is crucial for maintaining a healthy and vibrant pond ecosystem. To choose the best filter for your garden pond, consider factors like its size, filtration type, and specific features. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to the best pond filter type. All are designed to clean the water and remove waste produced by your fish or debris from your plants.
Before you can decide exactly which pond filter to get, you need to understand the different types that are available.
Types of pond filters
Mechanical filters
Mechanical filters remove solid debris (leaves, uneaten food, fish waste) from the water by passing the water through materials like foam, brushes, or sponges that trap particles.
Best for: General pond maintenance and pre-filtering for biological filters.
Biological filters
Biological filters improve water quality by removing pollutants and converting waste products into less harmful nitrates.
Best for: Maintaining a healthy nitrogen cycle, especially in fish ponds or koi ponds.
UV sterilisers
UV pond sterilisers are technically speaking, sterilisers and not filters. However, they are often used in conjunction with pond filters to kill algae, bacteria, and parasites using ultraviolet light, which destroys microscopic organisms.
Best for: Controlling green water caused by free-floating algae.
Pressurised filters
Pressurised pond filters combine mechanical, biological, and sometimes UV filtration in a sealed unit and work by forcing pressurised water through filter media and optionally a UV chamber.
Best for: Ponds with waterfalls or higher elevations; they can be buried for aesthetics.
Gravity filters
Gravity pond filters use gravity to move water through filter media. This water passes through various filtration stages and exits by gravity.
Best for: Larger ponds; typically used in conjunction with external pumps.
The best pond filter for a small pond
For smaller ponds, like those hosting goldfish or minnows, the Fish Mate 2500 GUV Gravity Pond Filter from Closer Pets is an excellent choice.
This compact marvel caters to pond volumes of 625–2,500 litres, ensuring efficient filtration without overpowering your small pond. Remember, not all fish are created equal – smaller ponds are ideal for smaller species, unlike koi, which demand more water volume and space.
The best pressurised pond filter
Pressurised pond filters maintain optimal water pressure, making them ideal for waterfalls and streams. They’re versatile, easy to conceal and ensure your pond remains fresh and clean. The best pressurised pond filters can be used above or below the water and provide reliable cleaning every hour of the day.
If your pond has a waterfall or fountain, a pressurised pond filter can be a great addition. While these waterfall features help to oxygenate the water, they don’t actively clean it. A pressurised filter goes the extra mile by preventing algae growth and eliminating bacteria, ensuring your pond and fish stay healthy.
The best pond filter with UV light
Adding UV light to your pond filter system is a game-changer for combating algae and achieving that crystal-clear water that our fish love.
UV pond filters, sometimes called UV water clarifiers, target algae and bacteria within the water through a gentle and noninvasive filtration process without impacting the pH, fish, or plants. When choosing the best pond filter with UV light, select the right wattage for your pond size for optimal running costs, although there’s no risk of overdoing the UV filtration.
Which is the best pond filtration system?
Pond filtration systems employ dual filtration, often combining UV and biological filtration for twice the cleaning power with a single filter.
Gravity pond filters are an excellent option when looking at pond filtration systems, as they use a powerful three-stage mechanical and biological filtration for optimal water quality and healthier fish. They’re even coloured green to blend in with natural surroundings, keeping your pond area looking wonderful.
More pond supplies from Closer Pets
Closer Pets is home to a range of innovative fish pond supplies to help you keep your fish happy and healthy, including pond pumps and fish feeders. If you’d like to know anything in particular about our range, get in touch with us today, and we’ll be delighted to help you out!