 Pond Skimmers act as mechanical filters in any pond situation. A mechanical filter is a filter that removes and collects particles out of the pond water to be later removed by the consumer. Many pond owners make the mistake of relying on a skimmer to act as a bio filter which it will not do and is not designed to do.
When building your pond selecting a skimmer is as important as selecting your filtration. You want to make sure you choose a skimmer big enough to handle the needs of your pond as far as waste goes, and as far as how much water you are looking to flow through the skimmer.
Bottom Drains
Koi ponds are designed for koi keeping and as such, high water quality is the number-one goal. Large external filters are the norm and bottom drains in bare bottoms are considered a necessity to deal with large fish loads and optimum water circulation.
Koi ponds usually have smooth, bare liner or concrete bottoms, so debris can be easily removed as it slides down along the bottom slope toward the drain. Drain sizes vary from 2inch to 4inch in diameter depending on the pumps used and pond volume.
The first step in a proper pond is ensuring that waste products are efficiently removed for processing by the filtration system. The application of bottom drains coupled with skimmers is essential in this regard.
It is generally accepted that bottom drains are a must and should be fitted to all ponds under construction, those being modified, or as required during alteration. The number of bottom drains required is a function of optimizing the draw to each drain. A good rule of thumb is one drain for every 12 foot diameter. Skimmers are used to further facilitate the removal of waste and wind driven debris. Other methods for optimizing waste removal include the correct application of water return lines and air devices to ensure good circulation in the pond.
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