Landscaping with your own hands. Pond filter - which one to buy and why? Pond water filter

Small artificial reservoirs decorate the countryside, providing an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. It must be remembered that every body of water requires maintenance, therefore cleaning the pond in the country is an important component.

Large artificial ponds for fish farming or aquatic plant cultivation do not need filtration. As for aquariums, swimming pools, fountains, water filtration is necessary here.

Filtration types

Before you buy a filter for cleaning a pond in the country, you need to familiarize yourself with the principle of its operation. This article describes the main types of cleaning ponds in the country and some filter models, as well as gives recommendations on the use of one or another device.

A wide variety of water purification systems can be found on the market today. Among this variety, it is necessary to choose the most useful option.

Mechanical (physical) cleaning of the pond in the country.

It consists in removing small particles of debris. carried out using filter materials through which water is passed. Mechanical filters remove algae, raised soil, leaves, etc. Filter media can be of various thicknesses and densities. Most often they are pads or sponges. "Skimmer" is a special pond filter that captures debris from the surface of the water. Other mechanical filters collect debris from the bottom of the reservoir.

The mechanical type of filtration is used to maintain the transparency and purity of the water. Such manipulations make it possible to prevent blockages in shallow reservoirs, as well as reduce the amount of decaying materials deposited at the bottom of these reservoirs. An important condition for the operation of mechanical systems is the regular cleaning of the storage compartment.

Chemical cleaning of the pond in the country.

The principle of chemical filtration is to remove inorganic or organic substances from the reservoir using special means, such as coal or compacted bulk resin.

The principle of purification consists in the absorption of various impurities by active elements. The use of coal is carried out in the case when it is necessary to remove drugs and additives from the water, which have expired. Certain chemicals can help reduce ammonia levels in the aquarium when there is a lot in it, or get rid of brown stains from excess organic compounds. When deciding on the need for chemical cleaning, you should carefully read the instructions for use of a particular active substance.

Biological filtration.

It is the most common among all water purification systems. Ideal when there are more than two inhabitants or plants in the aquarium.

In the case of biological filtration, the natural nitrogen cycle in nature is involved. With its help, organic waste is detoxified, as a result of which excess ammonia is removed from the water. When the level of ammonia in a body of water rises, the number of bacteria that feed on it grows. Such bacteria convert ammonia into nitrite, which is harmful to the aquarium inhabitants. The chain reaction leads to the multiplication of bacteria that feed on nitrites and convert them into nitrates that are not harmful to the environment. This complex process is called the "nitrogen cycle". It is an integral part of the biological safety of the reservoir with living creatures. In the event that the reservoir is shallow, there is no need to worry about filtering it - bacteria effectively function as a filter. Deep ponds and pools require special pond filters equipped with bacteria plates.

Before you start using a biological filter, you need to leave the reservoir alone for several days so that a critical mass of harmful substances accumulates. If the reservoir is new, before placing and settling in it, it is necessary to carry out primary biological treatment.

Combined filter.

For greater efficiency of water purification systems, many manufacturers combine several types of functions in one device. This multifilter includes an empty chamber and a bacteria sponge. The sponge, on which bacteria live, provides biological and mechanical filtration. And the empty chamber serves as a reservoir for materials that are used during chemical filtration.

To keep the artificial reservoir clean and tidy, you can use external or internal filtration. External filtration is designed for large reservoirs (from 8000 liters). The pond filter is installed outside the pond. Differs in the complexity of installation, but regular and safe power supply. Underwater (internal) filtration is used for small reservoirs (up to 8000 liters). Simple installation, but power supply problematic. It is necessary to install an underwater filter, observing electrical safety measures.

Necessary equipment.

Any water purification system consists of pumping equipment and a working part.

Pumps are one of the most important components of filtration systems. Therefore, the pump must be selected taking into account the size of the reservoir. An effective pump in a minute should pass all the water of the reservoir through the filter for 1-1.5 minutes.

If you do not know the volume of your reservoir, then it can be calculated using the formula presented:

V = L x W x D,

Where V is the volume of the reservoir;

D - the length of the reservoir;

W - the width of the reservoir;

Г - the depth of the reservoir.

For example, if the length of your reservoir is 100 cm, the width is 130, and the depth is 50 cm, then according to the formula V = (100 x 130 x 50): 1000 = 650 liters.

It is also necessary to have information about the capacity and pressure of the filter, since these are indicators of the speed of water circulation. Most inexperienced pond owners purchase pool pumps that have high pressure but small capacity. Consequently, such pumps consume a large amount of energy. Ideal for artificial reservoirs are pumps that have low pressure along with a large capacity.

It is best to get a high quality pump without necessarily being expensive. There are cheap pumps that can handle large volumes of water with low energy consumption. The flow of water is also important for the aesthetic appearance of the reservoir. Some owners use filters and subsea pumps, others run the pipes so that water can move to the pump room and back by gravity.

Pipelines.

In large bodies of water, it is more efficient to use large pumps. In this case, you will need pipes that will distill water through the entire filtration system. The pipes must be at least 5 cm in diameter. A pipe with a diameter of 5 cm and a length of 1.8 m is able to hold up to 4 liters of water. Therefore, if you want to equip the pump room at a distance of 30 meters from the reservoir, then there will be approximately 130 liters of water in the pipes.

Replacement of pipes.

In order to move water in an artificial reservoir, you can equip or. The cost of such a project will cost a little more, but the overall look will acquire a special elegance and brilliance.

- this is the guarantee of the beauty of your reservoir. The filter is its main element. Therefore, buy a quality filtration system that does not require complex maintenance.

The dacha pond resembles a small world in which its own special life rages: plants develop and bloom, underwater inhabitants scurry about, something new happens every day. To ensure the vital functions of the reservoir, it must be cleaned at least occasionally by one of the generally accepted methods - using a skimmer, vacuum cleaner, pumping station or home-made device. For gentle water purification from silt, it is enough to assemble a pond filter with your own hands and connect it to the mains.

There are several conflicting opinions about whether an additional cleaning device should be installed in the pond. Supporters of natural cleaning believe that there is no point in filtering a natural reservoir, since everything inside it is already provided for by nature itself.

A picturesque, beautiful pond with transparent, crystal clear water is the result of a lot of work on cleaning it from debris, silt and algae

Equilibrium is established by beneficial "marsh" plants that perform a number of useful functions:

deliver oxygen to water;
block the development of harmful algae;
enrich the environment with the necessary chemical elements;
increase the transparency of water;
are a wonderful decor.

For small ponds, spikelet and autumn marsh are suitable, for larger ponds - elodea and hornwort. Representatives of the underwater fauna are also a kind of cleaners. For example, crayfish and grass carp feed on duckweed and other polluting algae.

The dark green hornwort, a popular aquarium plant, has proven itself to be a pond nurse. It develops well in any climate, grows quite quickly

In reservoirs created artificially on a film material, biological treatment products containing cleaning bacteria are often used. They kill algae, but are not suitable for fish ponds. One of the sparing solutions is the use of peat mixtures, which make the water less hard and prevent the development of algae.

Many people are convinced that human intervention is indispensable. Be sure to remove dry twigs and grass, fallen leaves and other debris from the surface of the water. If the water is too muddy and polluted, it is necessary to use special ones, which will be very expensive, or home-made devices, which are much cheaper and more affordable. Consider two options for homemade garden pond filters that can be made quickly and inexpensively.

Option # 1 - filter from the grocery basket

What kind of things are not adapted by dexterous summer residents for their inventions! Any container with openings in which you can put the filtering components will work as a filter container. The homemade filter has proven itself remarkably when cleaning a pond with a mirror size of 2.5m x 3.5m.

From above, the body is hermetically sealed with a piece of durable plastic or thick, folded in several layers, film and fixed with self-tapping screws, wire or clamps

List of required materials:

medium-sized plastic grocery basket as a body;
drain siphon;
submersible pump Atman AT-203;
silicone sealant;
cushioning fumlent;
fitting + nut (brass set);
2 clamps;
pieces of foam rubber;
4 hard washcloths;
PVC hose (1 m).

Many of the listed materials can be easily found in the country, others are sold in a building supermarket. There is a chance to buy an Atman AT-200 series pump in the All for Aquariums store. The pump perfectly cleans the water and at the same time enriches it with oxygen. Several tools are included to adjust the power. The submersible motor runs safely and has a low noise level. The device operates on a 220V network, has a power of 38W. For a small unit, it has an acceptable capacity of 2000 l / h. Perfect for ponds up to 2 meters deep.

A pond half cleared of algae. The water is still cloudy and has a greenish tint, but no harmful plants are observed, and the bottom is cleared of silt

Any material that absorbs or retains dirt can be used as filtering components: expanded clay, packed in agrofibre; foam mats, twisted in rolls; plastic rugs with holes; old washcloths.

For ease of use and further cleaning, filter materials should be large in size, ideally the size of a basket

All this is loaded in layers into a container (basket), then a siphon and a hose are attached with the help of a sealant.

A hole for the siphon is drilled on the side to allow water to flow freely into the filter. The connection of the siphon with the body must be thoroughly greased with sealant

The pump is immersed in water and connected to the network. For safety reasons, the socket must be packed in a waterproof casing.

Any network connections must be tightly closed from the outside. The shroud can be made of durable plastic, thick rubber or leather

It is not necessary to overflow - if the filter becomes dirty, the water will naturally overflow and flow into the drain.

Also useful will be the material on how to independently clean a pond or a small reservoir:

Option # 2 - plastic bucket filter

The second homemade pond filter is a submersible device that must be installed at the bottom of the pond. The volume of the pond is about 5 m³, the depth is from 1 m. The design can be any, but the chosen option is the cheapest and most functional, reminiscent of factory filters sold in a store.

General view of a home-made filter device: a spacious case with filter material (foam rubber) and a lid with a rigidly fixed aquarium pump

Anyone who is engaged or at least interested in aquarium hobby knows several popular pump models. One of the most successful is the Polish device AQUAEL FAN 2. The advantages of the device lie in its technical characteristics: reliability, creation of the required flow, excellent air supply and atomization.

The pump has two main parts: filter housing; housing with motor (plus travel regulator and connections). Power is supplied from a standard 220 V network, power - 7.2 W

What to make a frame from?

You will need a plastic bucket with a capacity of 10 liters, which plays the role of a housing for the filter element. It is desirable that the plastic is relatively strong and can withstand a load of at least 15 kg. For decorative purposes, the color of the "underwater" bucket should match the color of the bottom, that is, be brown, gray or black.

For full functioning, a little modification is required. It is necessary to drill small holes in the side walls of the bucket (4-5 mm) - water will flow into them for cleaning. Some plastics are brittle, so you need to drill very carefully. A large hole must be cut in the lid to hold the filter in it. You also need a little ventilation for air out - another hole in the lid, but already small - 3 mm.

When calculating the diameter of the openings, take into account the size of particles of sludge or debris that can block the flow of water for filtration

Filter assembly order

Foam rubber is ideal as a filtering material - it perfectly absorbs moisture, retains dirt and is easy to clean. The optimum layer thickness is 50 mm, but other formats can be used. Foam mats are used several times.

Assembly instruction:

We fix the filter housing to the pump cover using a sealant or hot melt glue.
We attach the pump body to the cover.
Place the foam mats along the sides of the bucket. At the bottom we put two or three stones with a total weight of 5 kg - as a weighting agent.
Fill the rest of the bucket with foam rubber.
We fix the cover using wire or clamps.

A thick layer of waterproof sealant or hot melt glue will prevent water from entering the top of the pump between the cover and pump body

Unit connection and installation

For operation, the device must be connected to a 220 V power supply. The plug and socket connection must be protected from any ingress of moisture. For this, you can use a casing made of moisture-repellent material. The RCD installed on the line will trip in case of current leakage and turn off the network.

The diagram shows the water cycle during the cleaning process: under the influence of a pump, it enters the filter, and then, already purified, back into the pond

To install the filter, you need to choose a flat area of the bottom, mainly in a deep place. We lower the filter into the water, after which it naturally sinks to the bottom of the reservoir.

Then we connect the power supply and equip the water outlet after cleaning. For aeration, a thin hose should be connected to the pump, which with the other end will be above the water mirror.

There are many modifications of self-made filters for cleaning the pond, and to increase productivity, each craftsman can bring something of his own, functional and useful.

Recently, more and more often, when designing the general design of a backyard territory, site owners have resorted to organizing various types of reservoirs. This, of course, gives the area around the house some naturalness and originality, but the most important thing is the enchanting beauty that attracts not only the owner himself, but also any guest. However, it is no secret that any "beauty requires sacrifice", although in this case it is more accurate to say not "sacrifices", but efforts. Any body of water, in order to maintain its pristine attractiveness, requires regular filtration, and this is regardless of whether it is inhabited by living organisms or not. It is important for each pond owner to control his condition, because the order in the entire garden will essentially depend on this.

In view of this, there are two ways to maintain the cleanliness of the backyard pond: regular water purification in the pond or the installation of a special filter. The first option is relatively unprofitable, because it requires large expenditures, both physical and material, and this is not very convenient when the area of the reservoir is large enough. But the second is just what you need, it is the most effective, and the most common. And its huge advantage is that you do not need to throw everything and run to the store to buy such a necessary device, almost any amateur gardener with "skillful hands" is able to successfully create a homemade filter for a pond.

Water treatment methods

Many owners of such a wonderful element of landscape design, such as a pond, have completely different points of view regarding the care of it. For example, some people prefer not to resort to cleaning in principle, because they are sure that nature will take care of itself, especially when it comes to a natural reservoir. Most often, plants grow at the bottom of such ponds that bring great benefits:

they are able to supply water with oxygen;
prevent the appearance of harmful algae;
maintain the necessary balance of chemical elements;
purify water, making it transparent;
perfectly decorate the pond, being at the same time a good decorative element.

Plants can serve as a good water purifier

However, not only flora representatives can act as excellent sources of filtration; to perform this function, underwater inhabitants, such as crayfish or grass carp, are often bred.

As for artificial reservoirs, the base of which is polyethylene, biological substances with various cleaning bacteria are used to clean them. In addition, there is also a chemical cleaning method, which, according to many, is absolutely safe for the inhabitants of the pond and for its owner. Its essence lies in the fact that the reagents, getting into the water, start a chemical reaction and subsequently break down into water and carbon dioxide, which contributes to the purification of various substances.

The filtration of the reservoir can also be carried out using ultraviolet radiation. This is the best option in cases where mechanical cleaning has not brought the desired results.

One thing is for sure, that any body of water requires care and mandatory filtration, and without the efforts of its owner, it will hardly be possible to achieve good results. There will always be some debris on the surface of the water in the form of dry grass, twigs, foliage, etc. And the water itself can become cloudy or dirty over time. In any case, you will have to resort to the cleaning process - either install a pump, or build a filter with your own hands for a pond, which will be more profitable from an economic point of view.

Specialist recommendations: how to clean a pond in your country house (video)

Targeting Filters

One of the most successful mechanical methods for cleaning a pond is to install a filter. They are, in fact, irreplaceable devices for keeping the reservoir clean. First of all, such treatment facilities are created to prevent blooming of the water surface, they are aimed at destroying microorganisms that provoke this phenomenon. In addition, the operation of the filters does not allow small particles to enter the reservoir, and if there are any, then the process of purification from them takes place. Also, the filtration process includes freeing the pond from dirt and various kinds of impurities.

How the filter works

How to make such a filtering device? Of course, you can go the route of least resistance and just buy it in specialized stores. Or you can create such a filter for a pond with your own hands. In this case, you will have to purchase some important parts and accessories, and, accordingly, make some effort. In view of this, it is very important to know about what filters are and what types they are subdivided into.

Types of cleaning devices

As you know, all filters can be conditionally subdivided into two categories - pressure and non-pressure. They differ in their working principle.

Pressure

The advantage of the former is their relative cheapness and practicality. Most often, the structures of this working principle are used in cases where there is a fountain on the site, that is, a device in which a water stream moves under some pressure. Its essence lies in the fact that thanks to the operation of the pump, the water moves to the cleaning element, while it goes through several stages of filtration and returns to the pond in a purified form. The positive qualities include the small dimensions of the pressure head cleaning device, which makes it possible not to allocate much space for it and makes it possible to preserve the natural appearance of the pond. Few of them have an ultraviolet sterilizer in their composition, which not only cleans the pond, but also perfectly disinfects it.

Pressure filter

Free-flow

The second category of filters is gravity, or they are also called gravity filters, and some cleaning specialists call them modular or multi-chamber. Any of these names clearly reflects the principle of operation of the device. In fact, filters of this type are a certain reservoir, which consists of several separate cells or chambers, each of them filled with a certain material, passing through which the water is purified from various contaminants or debris. Water is supplied by the pump, goes through several stages of cleaning, and then freely returns (by gravity) to the pond.

Non-pressure cleaning structures are always installed above the water level, because otherwise the device will not work. Filters of this type are most often referred to as multifunctional and therefore the demand for them is much higher than for other models. Although they are much larger in size than pressure structures and their design is much simpler, nevertheless, the results obtained always meet all expectations. When purchasing such a filter, it is important not to forget to buy a pump, thanks to which water is supplied to the device.

Gravity filter

By the way, making a gravity filter is pretty easy. To do this, in your "arsenal" you need to have:

special brushes that will retain large debris, such as, for example, dry foliage or algae;
coke braid, the presence of which in the filter will rid the water of small debris;
a small piece of foam rubber that protects against harmful microbes and supplies the reservoir with beneficial bacteria;
capsules with a special solution.

Before inventing this device, it is important to consider several factors:

the best option for a medium-sized reservoir;
can be used for fish pond;
the best time for exploitation is late spring to early autumn.

Sand filters

Sand filters deserve special attention. By the way, they are also in great demand, because they have huge advantages. First, there is the pricing policy. Sand cleaning devices can be attributed to the budget option, since its cost is relatively low, but the quality of work does not suffer from this. They do an excellent job with the task. Secondly, these filters in service are quite simple and accessible. Thirdly, these devices can boast of reliability and unpretentiousness, which is also important.

The internal composition of the filter includes two main elements - sifted quartz sand and gravel. The cleaning process of this device takes place by backwashing. Nothing complicated, simple and high quality! It is for this reason that these cleaning designs are very popular.

DIY sand filter (video)

DIY filter creation

As noted above, for pond owners with "skillful hands" to make a filtration device on their own will not be difficult. To do this, you just need to purchase all the necessary parts and elements for construction.

A filter from the available tools. Photo 1

Since the most important component of any filter is the filler, the total cost of creating it will directly depend on this. However, before going to the store, it is important to take into account one of the main conditions - in which particular reservoir this filter will work: in a simple one or in where the fish live. Why is it important? It's no secret that aquatic creatures can pollute a pond much more than just algae. In view of this, it becomes necessary to create not just a primitive filter, but a sufficiently powerful cleaning device.

A filter from the available tools. Photo 2

The importance of filtration

All living things that surround us need constant care. If we talk about a reservoir, then regular filtration will be one of the excellent options for such care. Installing a store-bought or self-made filter will always be worth the effort of its owner.

Water purification system

Any body of water is a closed space filled with liquid. Garbage that enters the pond eventually undergoes a decomposition process, since microorganisms live at the bottom that contribute to this and an insufficient amount of oxygen. All this will lead to water bloom, which will negatively affect the life of the fish. If everything also does not resort to the filtration process, then a rather beautiful pond will very quickly turn into a not very beautiful mini swamp, emitting a fetid odor. This will be the final stage of the life of your reservoir.

Therefore, in order to avoid such a nuisance, just before designing a reservoir on your site, you should think in advance which filter to install and where exactly. The brand of the purchased device does not play a special role or it will be the result of your efforts, the most important thing is the result of the work of the cleaning structure. And it depends on her whether the pond will be the main element of the decor of your site and a source of admiration for your neighbors and acquaintances!

In order for living organisms of different species, fish and plants to exist in an artificial reservoir, you will need to take care of the purity of the water in it. The rate of water pollution in a pond is influenced by many factors: leaves, dust, debris, rainwater, exposure to sunlight. According to experts, the main factors in this negative process are the excess of nutrients and the accumulation of silt in the bottom layers. The reason for the appearance of a large amount of organic matter is the vital activity of fish and the natural decomposition of the remains of dying plants. Sludge settling on the bottom gradually becomes a medium for the development of harmful bacteria and fungi. Naturally, against this background, a significant decrease in the level of oxygen in the water is observed.

Correct arrangement of a decorative reservoir - we provide a filtration system when designing

Changes in the reservoir, ultimately, will lead to the active colonization of algae, which are microscopic blue-green filamentous formations, when they decompose under the influence of bacteria, a large amount of oxygen is consumed. In this case, fish and plants begin to feel the lack of the latter, there will be a threat of infection by infectious diseases.

The conclusion is that it is necessary to use filtration systems for water or biological products. The choice in favor of one or the other option can be made only by studying in detail the ratio of the dimensions of the reservoir with its population of vegetation and fish. The design of the filtration system should be carried out during the construction of the reservoir: the small size of the pond can become an insurmountable obstacle to their installation.

A well-chosen and installed filtration system for a decorative reservoir will turn the pond into a biologically balanced system that can decorate the landscape of the site in any style.

Filtration of the pond with minerals

A very effective option is water purification using zeolite, which is laid directly into the pond, by placing it in special nets or by putting it in filters. During the passage of the liquid, the minerals trap all organic particles and microalgae.

Zeolite is prized for its ability to extract from water and absorb harmful decomposition products of biological substances. To purify each ton of water throughout the season, you will need from 1 to 3 kg of zeolite.

How to clean the surface of the water

The issue of cleaning the surface of the water is really very important - fallen leaves, settling to the bottom, will lead to the formation of silt and cause putrefactive processes in its thickness. In this case, the natural ecosystem of the pond will be disturbed, the shading of the lower layers of water will lead to a significant temperature difference between the transparent upper layer and the darkened lower one. The easiest and cheapest way to clean the water surface is a special net, models with a metal edging preventing damage to the mesh seem to be very convenient.

In the autumn, when leaf fall is very active, it is recommended to stretch over the water surface grid.

A more expensive, but effective and easy-to-use device is a surface filter called skimmer... Garbage of different fractions in the upper layer of water gets into the skimmer basket due to the suction action of the pump with which the device is equipped.

The smallest fragments clogging the pond surface are captured by a system of high-quality filters. The mixing of water layers occurring during the operation of the skimmer leads to equalization of temperature, which is a serious deterrent in the process of algae development.

According to the principle of operation, skimmers can be divided into three types:

with a fixed post,
floating freely on the surface of the pond,
mounted on the shore of a reservoir.

Cleaning the bottom of the pond

Even with systematic cleaning of the surface, over time, a considerable amount of silt will accumulate at the bottom of the pond. You can get rid of it with the help of a special suction pump - a device that works on the principle of a vacuum cleaner. It draws in everything that is at the bottom - the remains of algae, debris, bottom silt.

An important condition is that the operation of the sludge pump is possible only in ponds with concrete or film cover.

UV filters

The ultraviolet filter has a completely different principle of action - under the ultraviolet emitted by it, unicellular organisms and algae die, stick together into lumps, which are easily detained by the mechanical filter operating in the reservoir. The result of UV work becomes noticeable in about a week, the water becomes much clearer and cleaner, in addition, pathogenic microbes dangerous for fish die in it.

Installation of such a filter is carried out outside the water, it can be used to clean a reservoir, the capacity of which does not exceed 230 thousand liters. The service life of the UV lamp reaches from 8000 to 10000 hours, its installation and operation are not particularly difficult. Different models differ:

installation method,
operating rules,
power,
dimensions.

Not so long ago, another device appeared that allows you to quickly get rid of small algae. The death of blue-green filamentous algae causes ionization of water caused by current pulses emanating from the microprocessor to the mineralized copper anode and stainless steel cathode. Ionization of this kind is completely safe for animals, people, fish and plants. The I-Tronik device can be used in reservoirs with a volume of 5-75 thousand liters.

Multi-chamber pond filtration systems

Systems of multi-chamber filters are popular: among the many models it is easy to find ones that can be used for reservoirs of different sizes, inhabited by algae or fish. Such devices are purified in three stages:

remove mechanical impurities,
treated with ultraviolet light,
remove biological components.

ultraviolet radiation will kill but not remove algae from the water,
if the biological filter works alone, as a result of heavy loads, it will often become clogged.

Since multi-chamber filters consist of several chambers, the water on its way passes through the membranes that separate them and is cleaned of various kinds of impurities. Dirty, organic-rich water that is removed through the filter drain pipes can be used for irrigation or fertilization. The purified water immediately returns to the pond.

In practice, pond filtration systems are more effective in which, at the first stage of treatment, water enters a round filter chamber - the flow moves slowly and most of the dirt settles in the mud chamber below, then the purified stream passes through the filter mats.

For the normal functioning of the system, it is very important that the pump has optimal performance, too powerful a pump causes water to overflow from the filter, therefore, to a decrease in the efficiency of the system.

No less relevant are multi-chamber filters including UV, disinfection and bio-purification. The number of chambers in them should correspond to the volume of water and the presence of fish and vegetation in it. Such systems are small in size, easy to assemble and maintain.

Filtration of water in a pond using containers

The most natural filtration method can be considered the use of special containers. The principle of water purification in them is the passage of liquid through a layer of gravel. The use of zeolite or lavag granulate can significantly improve the efficiency of the treatment system. The amount of mineral substance is taken at the rate of 3 kg per 1 cubic meter of liquid.

The cleaning process is completed by cattails or other marsh plants planted in baskets on the upper layer of gravel. Such a system is installed either in the stream bed or at the very edge of the pond - clean water must flow back into the reservoir. To circulate water in such a system, it is sufficient to use a pump with a capacity of about 3-4 thousand l / h. Do-it-yourself pond filtration, equipped in this way, will work quite efficiently.

Pressure filters

The simplest and most economical solution to the problem of pond filtration is pressure filters. This three-stage filtration system can be used for ponds up to 20,000 liters. Professional pond care is provided by a three-stage system, which includes:

UV cleaning,
biological treatment,
mechanical filtration.

Such systems have the following advantages:

they are easy to install and maintain,
when using a pressure filter, the source of a stream or waterfall can be located above the place of installation of the filter, the difference should be calculated accordingly to the parameters of the used model,
the filter can be integrated with a water heater,
the installation of the filter can be carried out by burying it three-quarters into the ground (both of its valves are located directly on the cover) - with this installation option, the masking task is greatly simplified.

When choosing a filter for an artificial reservoir, you should take into account many important factors; before buying, you should study in detail the characteristics of the selected model and consult the manager of a company that sells filters on the advisability of choosing it specifically for your conditions.
The size of the filter should be determined taking into account that improved water quality will lead to more active growth and an increase in the number of fish in the pond, i.e. for the reservoir in which the fish lives, the volume of the pond should be doubled, the result should be used in the calculation of the filter size.
Experts recommend taking into account the importance of oxygen saturation in water and using aeration pumps in filtration systems, or equipping waterfalls or cascades on the way of water.
Pumps should be selected carefully, taking into account the technical characteristics of the filter, it is better to give preference to models designed for dirty water. The pump should be installed in such a way as to ensure the circulation of water throughout the entire area of the reservoir.
The filters are turned on in the spring, when the water temperature reaches +12 C, the filters are turned off at the beginning of autumn, taking into account the weather conditions. The filters should be operated continuously, they should be turned off only during the cleaning period.
In order to save money, you can adjust the water flow in the system using valves or speed controllers - this will help to avoid idle operation or overflow. Thin hoses should not be used - they will cause a loss in pump performance.
Filtration systems can be camouflaged with stones of different rocks, distinguished by beautiful colors or original shapes.

March 25, 2015

Many people dream of having a reservoir on their site. And, embodying this dream, landscape design practitioners and romantics are engaged in an unspoken dispute: which is better - a picturesque pond or a pool? The best qualities of both reservoirs are combined with a natural pool. It brightens up the countryside and allows you to cool off on hot days. A natural pool is pure water without chemicals, in which you can swim and in which your favorite plants grow.

Green Portal has repeatedly addressed the topic of garden ponds. Together with the readers, we even learned how to make a pond in the country with our own hands. It is much more difficult to arrange a natural pool on a native six hundred square meters, more often this work is entrusted to specialists who take into account the wishes of the owners, the available area and landscape. However, few people know about bio-pools today, so let this article become an educational program for readers in a newfangled direction. Our editors are confident that the information will be useful and inspiring. So, let's begin…

Admire and swim

The bio-reservoir cannot be called a novelty and the result of modern technologies. Agree that in any natural pond or lake, the water remains clean and fresh, although no one uses chemical agents to clean them.

In the last decade, natural pools have become extremely popular in Europe. The purity of the water in biological reservoirs meets strict Western standards, and such pools are arranged not only in suburban areas and in the courtyards of private houses, but also in various sanatoriums, spa centers and other public places. Bio-pools are beginning to appear in Russia, but not everywhere and in small quantities.

A healthy environment with normal humidity without chemical fumes is what a bio-pool on site is like. In hot summer, such a reservoir will add coolness and moisture to your garden, and it will invite you to freshen up. In natural pools, the water does not smell like bleach, plants and even fish feel great in them.

Water purification in a natural pool

The principle of operation and cleaning of a natural pool is simple and complex at the same time. The reservoir consists of two parts: deep and shallow. The difference in depths usually ranges from 2 to 0.5-0.3 m. The deep part is intended for swimming, and the auxiliary one works for water purification and performs a decorative function. As a rule, a large number of plants are planted in it. This is the area of the water garden, which is also called the "regeneration zone" or "bioplato".

Plants feed on organics that enter the pool and thus purify the water. The assortment of vegetation is specially selected so that the planted compositions "keep in check" harmful algae. In the bioplato zone, you can additionally populate a colony of natural microorganisms that contribute to the purification of the reservoir.

The bathing area can be combined with the regeneration area. In this case, the bio-pool looks like an ordinary pond with thickets and a beach. The bioplato can be separated from the swimming area. Then the bio-pool will look like two independent reservoirs.

Together or separately, but two parts for one pool is a must. You can't do less, but there can be as many zones of the water garden as you want. Several water bodies connected to each other will become a full-fledged ecosystem. The water will flow from one to the other, revitalizing the pool and enriching it with oxygen. The closed loop movement is provided by the pump. Several cascades and streams can be made to make the water more oxygenated.

If the area of the bioplato will occupy about half of the entire area of the natural pool, then live cleaning of the reservoir will be as effective as possible. There will be a sufficient number of living inhabitants for high-quality self-cleaning of the reservoir.

It is undesirable for many trees to grow around the reservoir. Falling foliage will become not just picturesque rubbish on the surface of the water, but also a source of reproduction of unwanted algae, which can pretty much spoil the ecosystem of the pool.

The bio-pool does not require a perfectly flat area. In this case, naturalness plays a leading role: the beauty of the landscape is preserved and all its advantages are used. Water flows from reservoir to reservoir, bending around irregularities, rushing to the nearest hole, filling it and flowing further.

What is the difference between a natural pool and a regular one?

The bottom and walls of the bio-reservoir are made in much the same way as for a conventional pool. The mold can be concreted, or a ready-made plastic bowl can be installed. Believe me, while swimming, you will not step into the muddy, slimy ground - comfort and pleasant sensations above all - and you will not have to slide on the plastic, because for a lively effect, the bottom is covered with sand or pebbles. Bottom sediments will surely appear only in the shallow part. Silt is needed for the life of microorganisms and plants.

The movement of water is provided by a pump, which must work continuously; mechanical filters must be installed (we have already written about the variety of filters for garden ponds, you can read it). But the installation of a disinfecting system is not required - it is simply not needed, since its work is performed by plants in the area of the water garden. If you are in doubt about safety, then you can install an ultraviolet disinfectant without harming the ecology of your pool. It will not harm plants and other inhabitants of the reservoir, but it will destroy harmful bacteria and microscopic algae.

Continuous operation of the pump, pumping water, does not mean too high energy costs. In an ordinary pool, in addition to pumping, much more impressive amounts are spent on the purchase of chemicals for cleaning and disinfecting water or on the purchase of a chlorine generator. You can save in this case if the summer weather in your area is warm and clear and allows the use of solar panels.

Depending on the climatic conditions and characteristics of the place where the bio-reservoir is located, additional aeration may be required. If there is not enough oxygen, then most likely the water in the pool will bloom.

It is not advisable to specially heat water in a natural pool. For the bio-reservoir to function, it is necessary that the conditions are natural. Parents with children may not like this condition, so sometimes a natural pool is made with an area for toddlers. The shallow paddling pool is separated from the main part by a partition, the bottom is covered with small pebbles. Here the water will warm up better and faster.

The bowl of any pool is made waterproof so that groundwater does not enter the reservoir. This is important for a natural pool, as waterproofing helps to protect and preserve a working ecosystem, and also provides ample decoration options. In natural pools, you can arrange fountains, organize waterfalls and cascades, and make lighting.

The natural pool is not being built quickly. It will take more than a month for construction work, and another one and a half or two will be needed for the ecosystem to work. It takes a lot of time, but the result is impressive!

Plants for water purification in the eco-pool

The Bioplato Natural Pool is a flowering water garden that naturally purifies water. However, for the shallow water part, it is necessary to select the right plants that will fulfill their tasks. Best of all, a professional will cope with the selection of a decorative and cleansing composition. It is impossible to limit the number of flowers planted in the regeneration zone to a specific figure. In some bio-reservoirs, the number of plants can be up to five hundred!

There should be three levels of vegetation in the reservoir, so for planting it is necessary to select coastal, deep-water and shallow-water plants. Think in advance which moisture-loving flowers you like. Perhaps you cannot imagine your body of water without irises, adore water lilies and tender water lilies... Note the simple marigold flowers. Will look good around the edges of the pond ditty(alisma).

Warm shallow waters are a great place to pondeteria, however, it will not survive the frosty winter. It is better to plant this plant in containers, and to remove it away from the cold for the winter. Lush purple loosestrife bushes will become a vibrant coastal accent of the bio-pool.

It's hard to imagine a body of water without reeds... It is often mistakenly called cattails, but these are completely different plants. Variegated forms of lake reeds and Tabernemontana reeds with airy panicles of flowers perfectly decorate the biowater. Dense brown inflorescences-sultans are the main asset of the cattail. He loves to grow in shallow water. For landing on small bioplateos, it is better to choose small cattail, leave large forms for lakes or large-scale natural pools.

Winter-hardy plants for the coastal zone of water bodies include umbelliferae... It is unpretentious and very decorative - you can admire the pink flowers of the susak from May to September.

The surface of the reservoir is decorated with glossy leaves pond floating... The plant thrives in shallow water, it thrives in stagnant water or slowly flowing. Tolerant to sunny places and partial shade.

For fans cane it is worth remembering that this plant is aggressive - it grows catastrophically quickly, withstanding both strong moisture and dry soil. Be sure to limit the area where the reeds grow.

You can find no less beautiful and useful plants for a garden pond in the article "Plants for a pond". Choose and try to plant! And your water garden will grow from year to year and become more and more beautiful if you take good care of your water body and take care of it in winter.

Natural pool care

Firms offering services for the construction of an eco-reservoir on your site assure that it requires much less maintenance than a regular pool. A natural filter, a regeneration zone, works in the bio-pool, as well as a mechanical filter. The owner needs to remove fallen leaves and other debris that accidentally flew into the area from the surface of the water as necessary.

Sometimes it will be necessary to clean the bottom, but this procedure will have to be carried out much less frequently when compared with the maintenance of conventional pools with chlorinated water. And of course, plants planted in the bioplato zone will require attention.

How to care for the bio-pool in winter?

If the depth of the pond is two meters, this will allow the most resistant plants to overwinter. Delicate inhabitants of the reservoir, which were originally planted in containers, are best removed during cold weather.

The construction and competent organization of a natural pool is not cheap, but you and your loved ones get a stunningly beautiful and useful reservoir on your site. Clean water, lush vegetation and freshness on the hottest days of summer are the main advantages of arranging a paradise with a bio-pool.

We are sure that among our readers there are craftsmen who can create a natural pool on their own. And after reading the article, they will definitely try to do it. Share experiences and photos with Green Portal readers. We are waiting for your letters by e-mail