Cleaning Pond Pumps

The pond pump in your pond most likely has a bit of algae growth and could use a cleaning. Below are some simple tips to get rid of the algae and how to keep it that way.

Clean the Pump

There are several different kinds of algae that can thrive in pond ecosystems. While some of it is good for your pond, string algae is not a good variety. You'll know you're seeing string algae if it’s stringy and if you are able to simply pull it out of the pond. It likes to stick to bottom of ponds and string upwards. This can get caught up in your pump and other mechanical systems. The best way to clean this kind of algae off the pump is to take the pump out and physically remove the algae from the pump.

After you’ve done this, you may want to look into other methods of banishing algae from your pond. You may encounter some problems with this quest, however. Products designed to kill algae can also kill any fish you may have. Products like herbicides will kill the algae and any other plants you have. So neither of these are a good option, but there are a few products available that are made for this problem specifically. Go to your local pond supply outlet and ask a specialist for the best product that will not kill the fish or plants.

Keeping the Pump Clean

Barley has been used most frequently to help prevent string algae. It produces a natural enzyme that makes it difficult for string algae to grow and reproduce. A bale of barley tossed in to the pond will help to keep this type of algae away. It is suggested that you use one bale per 1000 gallons of water. You should only have to do this every 8 months or so.  It won’t work on any algae that’s already in your pond, so keep in mind this is a preventative treatment. You also need to be patient when using this method of prevention, you will not get immediate results. It can take as long as two months to see results. In the meantime, you will have to pull the algae out by hand as it becomes visible in your pond.

Cleaning Products

A lot of people make the mistake of cleaning their pump or filtration system with household cleaners. While this may make sense in theory, it can be deadly to the eco-system of your pond. Even if you think you have rinsed the pump clean before putting it back in the pond, you are still going to introduce a new chemical in to the pond. If you feel you need to clean with more than just water and elbow grease, visit your local pond supply store and get an enzyme or bacterial cleaner. These kinds of cleaners are eco-friendly and will not hurt the inhabitants of your pond. These can also help to cut back on foul odors produced in and from the pond.