Quick Guide for Koi Pond Filtration System

Koi pond filtration are in high demand in London and all across the UK. They are as varied as the places they are found. Different kinds and designs of Koi ponds are available in the market and it is really difficult to find out the perfect one. 

Koi keepers search for a good filtration system, as Koi are fed at least 8 times a day leaving huge waste and ammonia. In order to enhance the immunity system, good quality of the pond filtration system is essential to keep Koi healthy and away from disease. 

If you are not sure about Koi pond filtration in London, this article will provide an overview and lead you towards the perfect place to start. Let's begin!

Why do you need a filter for your Koi pond?

The primary step to understand pond filtration is to recognise the role that the nitrogen cycle performs. It is normal that the pond will accumulate fallen leaves, uneaten Koi food, and other decomposition at the bottom. As this gives rise to ammonia oxidising bacteria called "Nitrosomonas" that reforms into nitrites. Nitrites are then converted into “nitrates” by other oxidising bacteria called "Nitrospira".  

The nitrates are absorbed by the aquatic plant or algae for plant growth or denitrifying bacteria transform to nitrogen. The nitrogen cycle on the other hand is a natural procedure of all ponds and is beneficial for the development of pond plants. Excessive ammonia or nitrites in a pond is naturally harmful to the fish. The main factor that lies here is to maintain proper balance in order to keep the pond clear and healthy. And this is why you need a filter for your Koi pond in London. 
 

Pond filtration are of various types like mechanical and biological.

• Mechanical filtration 

This helps in removing all decomposing matter from water (including fish water, leaves, algae, and other organic waste). Mechanical filtration is not only implemented to maintain clean water in the pond and it is necessary to remove large solid matter from waste before it enters the living part of your filter. Or else it will clog the media and inhibit the nitrifying bacteria from transferring the ammonia and nitrites in the water.  Having a proper flow rate is important to enhance the efficiency of the mechanical Koi pond filtration system. 

In case the water flowing rate is high or the mechanical stage of the filtration stage of your filter is too short then water will move through your mechanical filter too quickly. The waste matter will also not have enough time to sink and drop out of suspension. 

• Biological filtration 

The procedure of removing ammonia and nitrites from the pond by converting them into nitrates. Koi pond filter is made up of several chambers containing varied media that act as the home for the nitrifying bacteria. Mechanical filtration is essential for a proper biological Koi pond filtration system.  The right amount of oxygen filtration is needed for effective results. Experts recommend keeping the biomass clean by putting an air pipe under the media which ensures that there is sufficient air supply.  

Choose a pond filter that will pass water from both the mechanical and biological filter chambers to guarantee wholesome water circumstances for your pond. 

What is the best filtration system for a Koi pond?

Things to consider while selecting the best Koi pond filtration system set:
 

• The Size of Your Pond

Calculate the water volume by calculating the dimension of your pond. It is recommended to select the pond filter that processes up to 150% of the total pond volume. That means for a 9000-litre pond, this volume would be up to 13,500 litres. Also, ensure that your pond pump can manage the flowing rate so for the 9000-litre pond you will need a 9000-litre pump rate. 
 

• Water preservation time

Pond water needs sufficient time for processing through the pond filter - if the flow rate is too good then the water will move through the filter quickly and water will be returned to the pond before it is fully treated.  Calculate your optimum retention time by dividing the flow rate by the pump rate. 

• Pond Turnover

It is crucial to have sufficient water holding time as the filter needs to process water at a faster rate than the time it takes for the pond to produce pollutants. This is calculated by the total amount of fish in the pond and their feed in order to find out the level of ammonia that is produced.  
For Koi ponds, it is recommended to turn the water over at least once after two hours. That means if you have a 9000-litre pond, you can tap half the water volume through once an hour using a pump that would accomplish 4500 litres. You will need to take height and distance in consideration where the pump needs to distribute the water. 
 

Conclusion

Now, when you have gone through the above-mentioned points, you will be able to select your best Koi pond filter with faith and guarantee that your pond provides a fresh, clean and wholesome environment to your fish. These points will help to keep your Koi’s environment clean and healthy, so you can enjoy your Koi pond for years to come.