Filter February, your yearly filter service, the time of the year we focus on everything which involves filtration on your pond. This includes your water pumps, UV lights, aeration pumps, skimmers, auto fills, and of course the filters. These items are serviced and monitored on our regular maintenance program. However, parts eventually wear out or become clogged and may need to be replaced or thoroughly cleaned. Having this additional service performed can help eliminate costly repairs, equipment from needing to be replaced or physical damage to the liner or plumbing of the pond. This service is done beginning in December to the end of Spring! Not just February!
A Filter February visit is a yearly filter service, an inspection and servicing of pond and water feature equipment. We do this at the end of Winter to the beginning of Spring. Due to the warmer temperatures on the way, this is a great time to make sure that your equipment is working properly and is effective.
Allowing a simple component such as a pump or filter O-ring to become cracked may lead to water leaks, inefficient filtering, or possible severe damage.
We hope that “Filter February” will ensure that every pond gets the additional attention it needs and will allow us to provide you with the best service possible. This will help ensure your pond will be a healthy ecosystem come spring.
*If you are a regular maintenance client we will be performing this service at the start of the year. If you are not a regular maintenance client and are interested in “Filter February” please call us to schedule a pond inspection
The following explains what we will be looking for throughout “Filter February”:
A ponds’ filter is the most important component of any pond. As we know, the main function of the pond filter is to trap and remove debris and sediment from the water. Even with regular weekly maintenance a pond filter may need a little extra care. There are many style types of filtration systems ranging from filters with a few filter pads. Some with sand and gravel or floating media to complex systems which may have multiple styles of filtration. Whichever style you may have it will at some point need to be taken apart and serviced. The filter we see the most is an Ultima II filter. These filters need to be serviced at least once a year. You can read more about this filter here. Give us a call for your yearly filter service.
A pond’s skimmer is a vital part of every pond and should be kept in good working order as they are usually the first line of filtration on a pond and unfortunately often the only means of filtration. At this time, we will inspect for potential leaks around the face-plate and in the plumbing (which is very often the cause of heavy water loss!).
Check valves located inside the skimmer may fail and need to be replaced to ensure proper flow. Skimmer nets or baskets are usually worn out by this time and could be cracked or worn and should be replaced to properly contain leaf matter. Skimmer nets or baskets should be replaced as well as replace any filter media or filter mats that may be located inside the skimmer.
Water pumps are one of the most important components of any pond. Pond pumps circulate the water in the pond and allows the water to be filtered and oxygenated. If the water feature pump fails it will cause a chain reaction which can potentially cause harm to entire aquatic ecosystem.
This could happen in many different ways. Such as the pond not being filtered, no oxygen added to the water, fish suffocating, failure to collect debris.As well as collapse of the beneficial bacteria colonies located throughout the ecosystem. Replacing the pumps skimmer basket or O-ring could be all that is needed.
It is always best to have your pump inspected and any small items replaced or repaired before they become a big issue which could possibly lead to costly repairs.
Aeration is a very important part of a healthy pond and is often overlooked. An aeration pump usually runs continuously 24/7 providing oxygen to the ponds water which aid is beneficial bacteria growth, water movement, and health of the aquatic inhabitants. Aeration reduces muck and excess nutrients, increasing oxygen, and circulating the water, will improve your water quality and clarity. Having aeration in your pond will also provide a better living environment for your fish.
Nearly all quality air pumps have a small filter pad that should be cleaned and inspected on a regular basis. At least once a year this pad should be replaced with a new filter pad.
Most air pumps work by either two pistons or two diaphragms working against each other creating and moving oxygen through the plumbing. After 10-12 months these components break down and need to be replaced. This is usually a simple repair and can be performed at the time of the inspection.
Ultraviolet lights are a common filtration unit we see installed on many ponds. The filter works by moving water over an Ultraviolet light which kills off algae and can even sterilize the water. There is always going to be beneficial bacteria inside your biological filter and on everything in the pond.
When properly sized for your pond and flow rate, the UV will reduce some bacteria, including harmful bacteria, as well as microscopic organisms that could be harmful to your fish.
It is suggested that U.V. lamps be replaced every 14 months of continuous use and that the quartz sleeve be cleaned or replaced at this time. Occasionally, the U.V. ballast will need to be replaced to ensure optimum operation.
If you are interested in having your filter serviced we suggest you call and schedule a Pond Inspection so we can discuss with you what will need to be cleaned, repaired or replaced. This is also a good time to discuss the possibility of a spring clean-out.
We have already begun inspecting our maintenance clients ponds and have scheduled this work to be performed starting the first part of the new year. All maintenance clients do not need to schedule or plan this service as it is included in our maintenance agreement. If you have any concerns about the pond please do not hesitate to contact our office or speak with one of our maintenance technicians.
*Clients will be billed additionally for this service including any parts or additional labor.