Autumn and Winter Pond Pump and Filter Care Guide
Introduction | Autumn and Winter Care
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In warmer climates where there is little threat of freezing temperatures, pumps and filters can be left on year round. This will give bacteria in biological filters a head start when temperatures begin to warm and the bacteria becomes active again. It is best to minimize water circulation, however, and bring the circulation to the surface as much as possible. An example of this would be placing your pump on bricks to bring it close to the service.
Surface circulation is most important with colder temperatures. Interestingly, water is most dense at 39 degrees fahrenheit and will thus fall to the bottom of the pond at this temperature. As long as the water at the bottom of the pond is not circulated with colder water at the surface, this warmer water will not freeze. Reducing the flow of your pump will also create less circulation. Remember that your pump and filter will be damaged if the water inside them freezes for any reason such as the power going out.
When choosing to shut off your pump and filter during the winter, make sure to drain all filters, plumbing and tubing. Submersible pumps should be left in the pond if it is not going to freeze or in a bucket of water so that the seals will not dry out. Most importantly, don't worry about it. Everything will be fine in the Spring!Introduction | Autumn and Winter Care
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