9. Choosing A Pond Pump

When choosing a pond pump, take into account the functions it will perform. Pumps vary widely in type, size, and purpose. Fountains or still, quiet, unfiltered pools benefit from water movement by small pumps to inhibit the growth of string algae and to break the surface for oxygen exchange. Larger pumps are required to power waterfalls, filters, and fountains, and it is important to select the best pump for the job. The choice can be made to power water features with an individual pump for each feature or a single, larger pump can be chosen to power all the features in a pond. Oase are good, reliable pumps and are available in sizes for every application.

Choosing a Pond Pump: External or Internal?

Two types of pumps are commonly used for water gardens: internal or external. Internal pumps are placed on the bottom of the pond and are connected from there to filters, waterfalls, and fountains. Internal pumps require protection from the debris that accumulates on the pond bottom. Placing the pump in a potting container filled with fibrous material to catch debris is a quick and inexpensive measure to extend the life of the pump. Some pumps can handle larger debris, but still will perform better over a longer period of time with some protection.

External pumps are situated outside the pond in some kind of protective housing and are connected from there to filters, waterfalls, and fountains. Like internal pumps, externals should be protected from debris entering the pump. An Aquarium Life Support Systems Intake Screen is an excellent pre-filter for larger internal and external pumps. Combinations of internal and external pumps for different functions are perfectly acceptable. Most pumps, whether internal or external, must not be run dry to avoid permanent damage to the motor. Oase and other pumps do have thermal shutoffs to protect them.

Factors to Consider When Selecting A Pump

Head Pressure

Head pressure, the manufacturer’s rating of flow at a given height or elevation and maximum pumping height, must be considered when deciding on a pump. Flow rate reported by manufacturers is the maximum, no-load flow rate for the pump. Filters, fountain heads, waterfalls, plumbing, and pipe and intake distance from the pond, combined with the maximum pumping elevation, determine a pump’s final output.

• Amperage or wattage – the lower the amps the lower the operating costs
• Maximum Cut Off or Shut Off-the highest elevation the pump can reach
• GPH gallons per hour of flow
• GPM gallons per minute of flow

Troubleshooting & Maintenance

A pump failure can be deadly to livestock. Periodic checks and following manufacturers’ maintenance recommendations helps prevent these disasters. Additionally, impellers do wear out. Many pumps have replaceable impellers or replaceable parts.

Below you will find OASE pumps with specific details about each pump. With multiple options, choosing a pond pump should not feel like a chore. You will also see the model numbers available that correspond with their GPH, making it easy for you to find the pump that you need to suit your needs. 

Oase Fountain Pumps

Oase Pond Pump

OASE Pond Pumps are quiet, discreet and effective in creating efficient water movement in multiple pond zones. They create water circulation throughout the pond, enabling aeration that nurtures beautiful water gardens and healthy aquatic life. They guard against algae growth and mosquito reproduction by creating movement of the water throughout the pond. Adjustable flow controls enable flexibility over the flow rate, creating the perfect amount of aeration. Pond Pump design allows for quick and easy access to all moving parts. The pond pump is energy efficient, and its smaller power cord plug size allows for easy setup. Power cable length is 20 feet on all models. A grounding plate ensures that any electrical leakage from the pond’s power source exits the pond through the grounding wire. This added measure of protection exceeds all electric safety standards. The filter intake surface is 15 cm2. Hose connection and outlet size on all models is 3/4 in. (19mm). The coarse debris displacement maximum is .08 inches (2mm). Epoxy encapsulation allows for full submergence.

Atlantic Tidalwave TT-Series Pumps

Oase AquaMax Eco Classic

OASE AquaMax Eco Premium

Oase Profimax

Breathtaking waterfall displays garner attention from admirers–and the size of the waterfall is often proportionate to the reaction. Large installations pack visual impact, but require different elements to ensure smooth operations and low maintenance. The top-performing Profimax 7000 is a premium pond and waterfall pump for large installations. It’s excellent flow rates make it well suited for large watercourses and waterfalls. It features a stainless steel intake screen designed to filter coarse debris particles up to 3/8″ (9.5mm). Mounting holes permit fixed installation on the pond floor, and its ergonomic handle design allows for easy transport and installation. The pumps robust design and construction allows for use in harsh seasonal conditions, in either wet or dry environments. Safety features include a grounding plate that provides protection against electrical hazards. The Profimax 7000 is known for long service life, even when it is run at high capacities, and is frost proof to -4 degrees Fahrenheit.