When it comes to pond filters and how to operate them properly, there is often a lot of uncertainty. A question that comes up again and again is how long you should run the pond filter. Check out our post for a detailed answer to this question.
A pond filter should run as continuously as possible
How a pond filter works
In order to find a conclusive answer to the question, you first have to look at how a pond filter (UVC technology) works.
The clarification of the water is done here in two parts:
- on the one hand by a coarse filter/pre-separator
- on the other hand by bacteria that break down substances and convert nitrite into nitrate
If the filter is now switched off for a certain time, the bacteria that take over the cleaning no longer receive any oxygen (which reaches the bacteria through the flushed water in the filter) and the bacteria die.
The result is that when the filter is switched on again, the bacterial culture has to form and recover again. This takes a certain amount of time - and until then the cleaning result is significantly worse.
In addition, new, anaerobic bacteria (which do not require oxygen) settle as substitutes, and unpleasant fermentation gases can develop.
In general, it is assumed that existing bacteria die off after about 2 hours without oxygen supply. For this reason, filters should run continuously.
question of cost
Of course, when passing through the filter, the electricity costs also have an impact. That should not be underestimated. If you have concerns here, you should think about natural alternatives.
Ponds without fish usually do not need filtration, as microorganisms, microorganisms and plankton in the water ensure that the pond is "naturally" cleaned. If the pond is then cleaned twice a year (in autumn and spring before the start of the pond season), this should be sufficient. However, once the filter is removed, it may take some time before a natural balance is restored.
tips
A plant filter, for example, is an alternative. There are also other filter options, but as already mentioned, a natural pond should usually balance itself out anyway.