FAQ's
Filled with questions? If they are still unanswered after you browse our FAQs, visit our "Ask Us" page.
Installation
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Q. How will I know what tools I will need?
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Q. Are there any places where I should not create my water garden?
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Q. What is a water garden filter system and what are the benefits of using one?
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Q. How do I install my water garden filter system?
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Q. How long will it take for the pond water to become clear?
A. You should notice clear water within 1 week of using your filter system.
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Q. How do I know which pump to use in my pond?
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Q. What if I have lost my installation instructions?
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Q. What if I purchased a pond kit and wish to add product?
A. Consult your Design Guide for a complete list of recommended tools for creating your water garden from start to finish.
A. You should first consult your local building codes for any restrictions on location, depth and design. It is important to avoid locations where there is water/rain run-off. This may be harmful to your pond water ecosystem, especially if you use fertilizers and chemicals for your lawn. Keeping your water garden in low shade areas will make it easier to grow aquatic plants and help keep it free from tree debris. It is best to locate your water garden where it will receive a minimum of 8 hours sunlight.
A. A water garden filter system consists of a filter and pump. The filter works two ways, mechanically and biologically. Mechanical filtration removes solid particles that can cloud water, while biological filtration removes pollutants that harm plants and fish.
Your pump helps circulate dirty water into the filter for cleansing and also provides oxygen for plants and fish in your water garden.
Overall, the benefit of adding is water clarity and a healthy pond environment. It does require a bit more installation and maintenance but it removes dirt, debris, and bacteria to ultimately provide you with a healthier water garden.
A. Consult your design guide for filter system installation details. If you cannot locate your design guide, you may download an additional copy from the Customer Support section of our website.
A. This depends on the amount of water in the pond, if the pond has a waterfall, if the pond has only a filter or in addition has several water accents. In general, it is recommended to circulate the pond water at least one rotation per hour. This is the minimum recommendation. Therefore, if a pond contains 1000 gallons of water, it would need at least a 1000gph pump. However, if this pump is being used to supply water to a filter and several features, Sunterra recommends moving up to the next gph size or using multiple pumps (one for the filter and an accent, another for additional accents). Sunterra does not recommend circulating pond water more than 2 times per hour through the filter, as this would actually begin stripping the pond of good bacteria.
Also, all of Sunterra's packaging contains an information panel which helps the customer match up the pump with any complimentary components. This is for basic installation purposes only, and each water gardener can get as involved as desired in determining how many pumps/filters/accessories they want in the pond. This will be a case by case decision based on each individual pond's needs.
A. Sunterra includes easy reference charts and installation tips with the majority of the product liner. However, if additional installation tips are needed, the customer may visit our website - www.sunterrausa.com, or call our consumer service line at 866-866-4486 to request additional instructions.
A. You definitely may add to your Sunterra pond kit. Think of it as a starting point to your water gardening adventure. Adding separate water features, a waterfall or filters may require one or more additional pumps. Keep in mind that you do not want to over filter (more than 2 pond water circulations per hour) your water garden, as this would start to strip it of the beneficial bacteria.
Maintenance
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Q. What regular maintenance needs to be done?
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Q. How often should I clean the filter/pump?
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Q. How often should I change the pond water?
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Q. Should I run my water garden filter system all year round?
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Q. How do I winterize my water garden?
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Q. How do I clean the pump filter
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Q. What if the pump stops working or breaks down?
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Q. What can I do to avoid algae, foam, build-up?
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Q. Aren't Water Gardens a haven for mosquitoes?
A. Most maintenance that will need to be performed should take very little time; approximately 10 minutes per thousand gallons of water per week. This covers such things as; feeding fish, skimming debris from surface, checking water quality (water test kit) and caring for any plant life. The necessity of cleaning filters will largely depend on whether or not fish life is present; if not, once a month usually is sufficient. If fish life is present, weekly monitoring of filters may be necessary.
A. Sunterra recommends cleaning your filter and pump on a monthly basis to prevent clogging. Always be sure to unplug any electricity to the pump/filter before cleaning. If you find yourself cleaning these more than once a month, you may need a larger filter for your water garden. Make sure neither the pump or filter is operating before cleaning. Then simply rinse out the pump and filtration sponges inside the filter with pond water.
A. You should remove and replace 10% of your pond's water volume, once a month to limit the amount of chlorine, ammonia, nitrates, and other chemicals, especially if you include plants and pond life in your water garden. You can test your water to ensure the right chemical levels by using a water test kit, which can be purchased at any garden supply or pet store.
A. This depends on your water garden's location and seasonal climate in which your pond is located. In regions that produce frost and freezing conditions, it is best to turn off your system, clean the pump and filter, and store in a dry area until warmer temperatures resume. Neither the pump or the filter should be used in temperatures below 41 degrees Fahrenheit.
A. Sunterra recommends discontinuing use of pumps and filters when the temperature drops below 41 degrees farenheit. Store all pumps and filters in-doors until temperatures rise in the early spring. Remember, if the pond contains fish it will be necessary to make sure the pond surface does not completely freeze over. Installing a small electric or solar powered deicer to keep a hole open for oxygen exchange is the best method.
Also, remember to research any fish life to make sure they can survive the winter in the pond. Do not feed fish when the temperature drops below 41degrees, as fish cannot digest food in these temperatures and could potentially die of spoiled food remaining in their system.
A. Sunterra pumps and filters can be cleaned by removing the coarse filters and running them under warm running water. This will need to be performed periodically, depending on the cleanliness of the pond water being filtered. Also, Sunterra offers all necessary replacement filters for our line of pond bio-filters.
A. If you have fish or aquatic plants in your water garden, Sunterra recommends having a spare pump in case of pump failure. We recommend that you have the same size (gph) pump that you are already using. Always unplug the pump before checking the pump. Secondly, check the pump's front cover to see if anything is preventing the intake of water to the pump. Remove any debris that may be blocking the outside of the front cover. If you continue to experience performance problems, consult the troubleshooting section of your design guide for troubleshooting tips and warranty information regarding your pump. Additional copies of your Design Guide can be found in the customer support section of the Sunterra website.
A. There are several ways to avoid algae build-up. First, stock the pond with snails, which naturally feed on algae. Also, use floating plants, which not only help control algae but also provide shade for fish life. In addition, it is recommended to use submerged plants to help feed and protect fish as well as to act as a natural filter for the pond. (1 bunch of submersed plants for every 2-3 square surface feet of water). Another natural way to inhibit algae is by introducing Barley Straw into the pond in the early spring. (Approximate use: .3oz Barley straw per square yard of water surface). It is important to keep near the surface. (Try attaching loose bundles in nets and using floaters to keep from sinking).
A. As long as you use your Sunterra pump, the water will continually circulate throughout your water garden. Circulating water will minimize mosquitoes and help prevent them from hatching their eggs. Fish like to eat mosquito larvae and can also help in keeping mosquitoes out of your water garden.
