Here’s a more detailed look at whether you should turn your pond pump off over winter:
Planted or Ornamental Pond (No Livestock):
- No need to run equipment: As the water temperature drops below 10°C, the beneficial bacteria that help process waste in the pond begin to die back. This means there is less need for filtration.
- Optionally, you can turn off the pump and filter if you don’t have any fish or sensitive aquatic plants that need circulating water.
Fish Pond:
Above freezing temperatures: If your local winter temperatures remain above freezing, you can keep your pump running. This helps maintain oxygen levels in the water and keeps it moving to prevent stagnation. It’s advised to reduce the flow rate and move the pump away from the bottom to avoid disturbing the sediment and to reduce strain on the equipment.
Freezing conditions: In areas where temperatures drop below freezing, it's important to disconnect the pump, filter, and UV clarifier before the water freezes. Here are key steps:
- Drain all water from the equipment to avoid damage.
- Clean the filter and media thoroughly.
- Store the pump and UV clarifier in a dry location to protect them from freezing.
Additional Tip:
If you plan to turn off your pump, ensure the water is still circulating in other ways (e.g., aerators or surface water movement) to prevent ice from forming and affecting fish and plants.
For more guidance, feel free to check out the full article on winter pond preparation for extra tips.