Pond Pumps
Pond Pumps for Koi Ponds, Waterfalls & Water Gardens
Browse for pond pumps for all purposes - from small water features on a patio, to a large koi pond able to run 24/7. Select the submersible pumps, which allow you to install your fountain easily with minimal plumbing connections, or external pumps, for maximum efficiency, high performance, and long-term reliability. We offer top brands, including Atlantic Water Gardens, Aquascape, PerformancePro, Pondmax, Teton, Sequence, Oase, and EasyPro. Free Shipping on orders over $99, with sizing support from experienced professionals.
Pond Pump Selection Guide
Flow Rate (GPH):
You should ensure that the entire volume of your pond is circulated at least once per hour. Target 1.5× per hr for koi ponds. For example, a 2,000-gallon koi pond will require approx. 2,000–3,000 GPH at actual operating head height (TDH). Note: Actual flow requirements may vary based on your filtration system, fish load, and maintenance schedule.
Head Height:
Flow rate drops with each foot of elevation. Total Dynamic Head (TDH) is the total resistance a pump must overcome, including vertical lift and pipe friction. Always verify the pump performance curve at your working TDH. Pro tip: For every 10 ft of horizontal distance, add approx. 1 ft of equivalent vertical lift.
Energy Efficiency:
That efficiency is important since pumps may provide 24/7 service. The more efficient models can consume 30–50% less power, resulting in substantial yearly cost savings.
Submersible Pond Pumps - Install The Easiest Way for Any Pond
Submersible or in-pond pumps sit right in the water and require minimal plumbing. Simply place the pump in the pond, skimmer, or pump vault, attach the return line to the outlet port, and plug it in. Each model employs an oil-free motor that is safe for fish and plants.
Benefits:
- Simple installation
- No priming required
- Quiet operation
- Good for small to medium sized ponds
- Lower upfront cost
Top Submersible Pumps:
Atlantic A-Series, Atlantic TT Series, Aquascape AquaSurge, Aquascape AquaForce, EasyPro TH, TM & T6 Series, Oase AquaMax Eco, Teton XPF & XC, PerformancePro Wellspring, Pondmax EP & EVO Series.
External Pond Pumps - Designed for Medium to Large Koi Ponds or Water Features
External pumps are mounted outside the pond and can be used for, high-performance applications.
Benefits:
- Easy access
- Longer lifespan compared to submersible pumps
- Improved energy efficiency at high flow rates
- Self-priming models offer ease of use
- Best for any tall waterfalls and long tubing runs.
Choosing the Right Type:
- Low RPM: Generating the most energy-saving benefits
- High Flow: Best for large amounts of water movement
- High Head: Ideal for high drops in waterfalls or fountain features
- ArtesianPro: Commercial-grade performance
Shop by Brand
- Atlantic Water Gardens
- Aquascape
- PerformancePro
- Oase
- EasyPro
- Teton
- Pondmax
- Sequence
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What pump do I need for my pond? What is the required pump size?
Select a pump that turns over your pond once per hour (1.5× for koi ponds). For example, a koi pond of approx. 2,000 gallons will require approx. 2,000–3,000 GPH at actual Total Dynamic Head (TDH). Note: These are estimates - actual requirements vary based on filtration, fish load, and maintenance.
Q2. How Much Does a Pond Pump Cost to Run?
At average electricity prices, operating a 250-watt pump continuously costs approx. $28 per month. This cost can be significantly reduced with an energy-efficient model. *This is an estimate - actual amount may vary based on local electricity rates, usage patterns, and pump efficiency.
Q3. How long do pond pumps last?
Standard submersible pumps have a lifetime of approx. 3-5 years. If well-maintained, external pumps can last approx. 5-10 years or longer. *These are estimates - regular pump maintenance and cleaning can significantly increase the life of your pump.
Q4. Are submersible pumps safe for koi?
Yes. Due to the oil-free motors and pre-filters included in today's pumps, these are at a higher level of safety for koi, goldfish, and aquatic plants.
Submersible Pump FAQs
Q5. Which submersible pumps are popular?
Popular choices include Aquascape AquaSurge, Atlantic A-Series, Atlantic TT Series, EasyPro TH, TM & T6 Series, and Pondmax EP & EVO Series.
Aquascape AquaForce - Great for ponds with a lot of debris.
Q6. Should submersible pumps be removed during winter?
In freezing climates, fetch them and store them in water indoors. With some precautions, they can stay in the pond in mild climates.
Q7. How to Clean a Submersible Pump
Check and clean your pump regularly - weekly or monthly depending on pond conditions. Be sure to clear pre-filter and impeller debris. Annual or semi-annual cleaning of the impeller has also been shown to increase pump lifespan. For best results, perform a full inspection at least once or twice a year.
Q8. What are the types of submersible pumps?
Mag Drive Pumps: Pumps that use a magnetic field to transfer power from the motor to the impeller. No mechanical seals. Energy efficient and low maintenance.
Direct Drive Pumps: The impeller is attached directly to the motor through a drive shaft. Offers solid handling capability and high flow rates. Less energy efficient than mag drive.
Asynchronous Pumps: A hybrid of Mag Drive and Direct Drive capabilities. The impeller turns only one way, can handle some solids, and offers moderate energy efficiency.
External Pump FAQs
Q9. What is the difference between submersible and external pumps?
Submersible pumps are installed inside the pond (in a skimmer box or pump vault) and are simple to set up with minimal plumbing. External pumps are placed outside the pond and move large volumes of water, making them ideal for large koi ponds or water features. Both submersible and external pumps are ideal for continuous 24/7 operation.
