Category: Pond

How To Maintain A Backyard Pond In Phoenix, AZ

How To Maintain A Backyard Pond In Phoenix

Having a pond in your backyard is a great centerpiece of your landscaping. However without proper maintenance it can become the monster lurking in your yard. Here are a set of steps for how to maintain a backyard pond.

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Elements of a Backyard Pond

The type of maintenance required for each pond is different, partly because different yards will have more or less trees, sunlight, and other variables. Even different styles and materials the ponds are made with will mean more or less cleaning. Most ponds share common elements, here are a few of them.

Pond Edge Materials – The edges of most ponds are lined with an edging material. Usually concrete pavers or even stones are lined between the water and the rest of your landscape. This isn’t just for a great aesthetic look, but helps prevent contamination. The water running off your lawn may be fertilized. The chemicals found in lawn fertilizer are not good for these ponds, especially if you have Koi fish.

Pond Liners – The soil in your yard is meant to drain water away from the roots of your plants. When you have a pond you generally want to keep the water where you put it, and a PVC or rubber liner is how we get the job done.

Pond Sand Bases – Before the liner goes down a layer of sand is laid. This is so that your liner has a soft even place to rest. Without this you might have sharp rocks that will pierce your liner and leak your water.

Seasonal Backyard Pond Maintenance Routines

Depending on the size of your pond you will require more or less often maintenance. It might seem crazy but the larger ponds are actually easier to take care of. This is because they can cope with changes to chemistry and ecology. Here we have listed out the ways to take care of your backyard pond in each season.

Spring Backyard Pond Maintenance

  • If your liner has more than an inch of debris or muck you are going to need to drain the pond and hose off the liner. Cleaning the bottom of the pond keeps your filters and pumps working, and makes them last longer.
  • While you have the pond drained it is a good chance to look for any potential leaks. Limbs or branches from trees can fall and pierce the liner of your pond. Pond liner repair kits are inexpensive and effective. This will prevent water from leaking out, or contaminants under your liner from entering your ecosystem.
  • Replace the filter and make sure the pump is working. Replace any piece of your pump or filtration system that isn’t working.
  • Top off the water level in your pond. Do so by placing the water trickling into the bottom of the pond. This helps stir up the minimum amount of debris.
  • Get rid of any debris or leaves from the pond. This debris as it decomposes releases harmful chemicals into ponds. The Nitrate levels need to be controlled for these close ecosystems.
  • Consider adding some plants to help increase the level of oxygen in the water. In addition to aeration of the water from falling water you can put oxygenating aquatic plants into your pond.
  • If you have potted plants you can divide them. This keeps them growing well and getting bigger.
  • Switch the feed you are using for your fish in the spring. You will want to make sure that you are using a high-carbohydrate type food. This will help them increase activity.
  • After all potential for frost has passed you can add any submerged or potted plants to your pond. If you install them too early you run the risk of algae getting out of control.

Summer Backyard Pond Maintenance

  • Stay on top of the water level. Letting the water get too long concentrates salt in the water and is harmful to the fish, pond, pump and filtration system. Try to add a little every week or two instead of having to add large amounts every month.
  • Plants grow best in the summer and can get out of control. It’s important to remove dead leaves to keep the water clean. Plants or flowers that are overgrowing should also be trimmed back. This will help keep the water cleaner and require less maintenance.
  • Keep an eye on your pump intakes and filters. A weekly check should be done and clean them out if they are starting to get clogged.
  • Watch The Water Chemistry. Kits should be bought to keep track of the water quality. Much like operating a hot tub the chemistry in the water dictates how safe it is. Pond chemistry sticks should be used that properly measure for chlorine, ammonia, and chloramines. High levels of any of these chemicals can be harmful to, or kill your fish.
  • Watch the fish for odd behavior or sores. It can be a sign of water chemistry being off.
  • Use aquatic-plant fertilizer tables on your potted plants each month of the summer. This helps keep them healthy and growing well.
  • If your yard is prone to pests on the plants use non toxic methods to control them. Algae can grow out of control if you don’t control it. Use a long-handled bristle brush, pole, or rake to get rid of your algae.

Fall Backyard Pond Maintenance

  • Fall is known for falling leaves, and decaying leaves in your pond raise ammonia levels. If you only have a few trees and can skim the leaves out of your pond with a net or skimmer you should be fine. If you have a lot of trees near the pond a net should be set in place. They can be bought inexpensively and secured in place with tent spikes, bricks or rocks.
  • Cut back on the feeding of your fish. Once the water reaches 50°F stop feeding your fish entirely. During the winter digestion in fish enters an almost hibernation like state. The amount they need to eat is more than supplied by bugs and other things they can find naturally in the pond.
  • Take any plants that won’t cope well with colder temperatures. Arizona rarely has serious freezes. But plants that won’t survive cooler nights should be brought in.

Winter Backyard Pond Maintenance

  • In Arizona freezes are not common. However if there is a freeze coming, clear your water lines and any pond fountains.
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Backyard Maintenance Ideas

Backyard Maintenance IdeasHaving a pond in your backyard is a great centerpiece of your landscaping. However without proper maintenance it can become the monster lurking in your yard. Here are a set of steps for how to maintain a backyard pond.

623-878-6695
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Elements of a Backyard Pond

The type of maintenance required for each pond is different, partly because different yards will have more or less trees, sunlight, and other variables. Even different styles and materials the ponds are made with will mean more or less cleaning. Most ponds share common elements, here are a few of them.

Pond Edge Materials – The edges of most ponds are lined with an edging material. Usually concrete pavers or even stones are lined between the water and the rest of your landscape. This isn’t just for a great aesthetic look, but helps prevent contamination. The water running off your lawn may be fertilized. The chemicals found in lawn fertilizer are not good for these ponds, especially if you have Koi fish.

Pond Liners – The soil in your yard is meant to drain water away from the roots of your plants. When you have a pond you generally want to keep the water where you put it, and a PVC or rubber liner is how we get the job done.

Pond Sand Bases – Before the liner goes down a layer of sand is laid. This is so that your liner has a soft even place to rest. Without this you might have sharp rocks that will pierce your liner and leak your water.

Seasonal Backyard Pond Maintenance Routines

Depending on the size of your pond you will require more or less often maintenance. It might seem crazy but the larger ponds are actually easier to take care of. This is because they can cope with changes to chemistry and ecology. Here we have listed out the ways to take care of your backyard pond in each season.

Spring Backyard Pond Maintenance

  • If your liner has more than an inch of debris or muck you are going to need to drain the pond and hose off the liner. Cleaning the bottom of the pond keeps your filters and pumps working, and makes them last longer.
  • While you have the pond drained it is a good chance to look for any potential leaks. Limbs or branches from trees can fall and pierce the liner of your pond. Pond liner repair kits are inexpensive and effective. This will prevent water from leaking out, or contaminants under your liner from entering your ecosystem.
  • Replace the filter and make sure the pump is working. Replace any piece of your pump or filtration system that isn’t working.
  • Top off the water level in your pond. Do so by placing the water trickling into the bottom of the pond. This helps stir up the minimum amount of debris.
  • Get rid of any debris or leaves from the pond. This debris as it decomposes releases harmful chemicals into ponds. The Nitrate levels need to be controlled for these close ecosystems.
  • Consider adding some plants to help increase the level of oxygen in the water. In addition to aeration of the water from falling water you can put oxygenating aquatic plants into your pond.
  • If you have potted plants you can divide them. This keeps them growing well and getting bigger.
  • Switch the feed you are using for your fish in the spring. You will want to make sure that you are using a high-carbohydrate type food. This will help them increase activity.
  • After all potential for frost has passed you can add any submerged or potted plants to your pond. If you install them too early you run the risk of algae getting out of control.

Summer Backyard Pond Maintenance

  • Stay on top of the water level. Letting the water get too long concentrates salt in the water and is harmful to the fish, pond, pump and filtration system. Try to add a little every week or two instead of having to add large amounts every month.
  • Plants grow best in the summer and can get out of control. It’s important to remove dead leaves to keep the water clean. Plants or flowers that are overgrowing should also be trimmed back. This will help keep the water cleaner and require less maintenance.
  • Keep an eye on your pump intakes and filters. A weekly check should be done and clean them out if they are starting to get clogged.
  • Watch The Water Chemistry. Kits should be bought to keep track of the water quality. Much like operating a hot tub the chemistry in the water dictates how safe it is. Pond chemistry sticks should be used that properly measure for chlorine, ammonia, and chloramines. High levels of any of these chemicals can be harmful to, or kill your fish.
  • Watch the fish for odd behavior or sores. It can be a sign of water chemistry being off.
  • Use aquatic-plant fertilizer tables on your potted plants each month of the summer. This helps keep them healthy and growing well.
  • If your yard is prone to pests on the plants use non toxic methods to control them. Algae can grow out of control if you don’t control it. Use a long-handled bristle brush, pole, or rake to get rid of your algae.

Fall Backyard Pond Maintenance

  • Fall is known for falling leaves, and decaying leaves in your pond raise ammonia levels. If you only have a few trees and can skim the leaves out of your pond with a net or skimmer you should be fine. If you have a lot of trees near the pond a net should be set in place. They can be bought inexpensively and secured in place with tent spikes, bricks or rocks.
  • Cut back on the feeding of your fish. Once the water reaches 50°F stop feeding your fish entirely. During the winter digestion in fish enters an almost hibernation like state. The amount they need to eat is more than supplied by bugs and other things they can find naturally in the pond.
  • Take any plants that won’t cope well with colder temperatures. Arizona rarely has serious freezes. But plants that won’t survive cooler nights should be brought in.

Winter Backyard Pond Maintenance

  • In Arizona freezes are not common. However if there is a freeze coming, clear your water lines and any pond fountains.
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Raising Goldfish In A Backyard Pond

Raising Goldfish In A Backyard Pond

A backyard pond, especially one with aquatic plants and fish, such as koi or the less expensive but equally colorful goldfish, adds appeal to your landscape. The Wakin goldfish, a Chinese native, can reach 18 inches in length and, like koi, is a friendly fish, especially around feeding time. In a pond, the comet goldfish, a more common species, can grow to be 6 to 10 inches long. Some kinds can be left in the pond over the winter, while others must be taken inside. Goldfish can live for more than a decade if they are properly cared for. To maintain its inhabitants healthy, a goldfish pond requires regular maintenance.

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Make sure you have a good filtration system in place. Filtration is required to remove part of the waste produced by the fish, as well as the decomposition of plant matter in the water. Every few weeks, clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Goldfish are vulnerable to ammonia and nitrate buildup in pond water due to insufficient filtering. Every other day, check the water for nitrates. Nitrate levels in goldfish culture should ideally be nil. High waste product levels can also be produced by having too many goldfish in your pond — each goldfish should have about 3 to 4 square feet of water surface, assuming the fish are of average size – about 6 to 10 inches.

Use plants to cover around 75 percent of the pond’s surface to reduce algae production. This will block sunlight from reaching the water’s surface, encouraging algae development. Some algicides are poisonous to goldfish, therefore don’t use it in a pond with them. Water plants provide shade, which keeps the pond water from becoming too heated. The temperature of the pond water should be between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit for goldfish to grow.

Skim the pond for leaves and debris on a regular basis. Algae have no feeding source if dead organic debris is removed every few days. Algae in a pond not only looks unappealing, but it also depletes oxygen levels in the water, which goldfish require to survive.

Feed your pond’s fish with goldfish food prepared exclusively for them, as directed on the package. Don’t overeat. Goldfish metabolism speeds up in the summer, when the pond water temperature is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and they can be fed twice a day safely. Food that isn’t consumed pollutes the pond.

Fertilize your pond plants according to the instructions for each species of plant. Water lilies (Nymphaea), for example, need fertilizer on a regular basis to thrive. Trim or divide any plant material that appears to be overgrown or unhealthy on a regular basis. Healthy plants give your pond’s goldfish areas to hide from predators like raccoons and blue herons, as well as to escape the sun’s heat.

During the hot, dry summer months, top off the pond’s water to repair evaporation losses. The goldfish will be stressed if there isn’t enough water, making them more prone to sickness. The water must be chlorinated before being added to the pond, or the fish may perish. Before adding water to the pond, dissolve dechlorinator tablets in buckets of water according to package guidelines.

Maintenance in the Winter

Check to see whether you have a goldfish that can stay outside in the winter. Some varieties demand warmer temperatures than those seen in most parts of the country during the winter. Comet goldfish, for example, require water temperatures of 68 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, whereas wakin goldfish can stay in the pond as long as there is an air hole. Make a hole in the ice or use a pond heater to keep the pond open when the surface freezes over. A hole in the surface ice, in either case, permits gases to escape. In addition, winterize the pond by turning off the filtration system and relocating plants to the deepest part of the pond. Do not add food to the water at this time since goldfish that endure cold will hibernate at the bottom of the tank in a dormant state.

If your pond is going to freeze solid, bring your goldfish and plants indoors. If your goldfish needs to come indoors, provide them with a dechlorinated indoor habitat. Remove the plants, pot and all, from the water and bring them inside.

Throughout the winter, keep removing debris from the pond on a regular basis.

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Growing Water Lilies

Water lilies (Nymphaea spp.) are beautiful and functional additions to any landscape pool or pond. Read on to learn more.

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They’re used by fish as hiding spots from predators and as shade retreats from the harsh summer heat. Plants in a pond help keep the water clean and aerated, which means you’ll spend less time maintaining it. Let’s look at how to care for a water lily. There are two varieties of water lily plants: Hardy – Hardy plants thrive in colder locations where the water freezes during the winter. Hardy individuals will emerge the next spring as long as their roots are below the freezing point of the water. Tropical — In all but the warmest climates, tropical water lilies cannot thrive in cold water and must be taken indoors for the winter. Many growers consider them annuals, replanting them every year. Otherwise, remove them from the pond before the first freeze, clean them up, and keep them in a pail of damp sand in a cool basement. Day bloomers and night bloomers are two different types of tropical water lily plants. With only the moonlight to highlight them, white night bloomers look stunning, but blues, purples, reds, and pinks are difficult to see in the dark. Unless the pond is illuminated by artificial light at night, stay away from these hues. The Best Way to Grow a Water Lily

Adjust the depth of the pot in the pond to the depth advised for your individual variety. The majority of plans ask for a depth of 6 to 18 inches (15-46 cm.). You can enhance the depth of the pot by laying it on top of rocks if necessary.

Water Lily Maintenance

Water lilies are simple to care for once they’ve been planted. In truth, most don’t take much attention other than dividing them every three or four years to avoid them from expanding into undesirable locations.

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Koi Pond Plants

If you’re searching “Best Pond Plants for Koi” you’re either planning a new Koi pond or thinking about how to make your existing pond better.  Either way choosing the right plants for your Koi pond in Arizona will make it more visually stunning and preserve the health of the Koi fish.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Koi Pont Plants

When introducing plant life into your koi pond, it can assist with improving the pond life of koi’s. In addition, it can provide aesthetics to your pond.

Owners of koi must ensure that the correct aquatic plants are chosen for the koi pond to co-exist harmoniously with koi’s. Also, make sure that the plant placement is properly conducted and use vegetation which the koi will simply eat.

Benefits of using aquatic plants within a koi pond

When it comes to aquatic plants, they are thought to be a great part of a koi pond. Aquatic plants can assist with increasing the production of oxygen in water, maintaining the pond with proper aeration for koi’s. In addition, just their presence can help keep water cooler as it provides the koi a shaded area. The submerged plants also act as an important surface during spring breeding season for female koi, as they attach fertilized eggs to the plants.

Keeping Water Cleaner

Meanwhile, the plants can prevent spreading of algae, helping to keep it under control. The shade that plants provide lowers the light that reaches the pond, thus limiting the photosynthesis of algae. Plants provide a natural filtration for preventing string algae, known as blanket weeds to form. This is done mostly by absorbing the nitrates that can be harmful and result in the formation.

Tips to introduce plant life to koi

When it comes to introducing your koi and plants, is by using a plant shelf. Plant shelfs can be installed on the edge of a pond. It is a container which you can plant water plants. It is suggested that plants are weighed down with large rocks or stones so it creates a barrier between the plants and base, and the koi to prevent risks of plants being ate by koi. Also, it is important that pond owners are aware that shelves are used by predators such as raccoons, to feed on the koi.

Although, you can position aquatic plants directly in the pond. When choosing the aquatic plants to place in your pond, there are many options available. There are three main categories that pond plants can be categorized as, discussed below:

  1. Floating plants
  2. Shallow water marsh plants
  3. Submerged Plants

An alternative for introducing aquatic plants to a pond is vegetative filters. Using this system, plants grow in a different containment area, which connects to the main pond. The purpose of the plants is to provide a natural filtration system when water from the pond travels into and out of the contained region. Therefore, providing the benefits of filtration of an aquatic plant system, without the risks of koi dislodging or eating pond plants.

Floating Plants

This form of pond plant is able to be free floating with the main vegetation being on the surface and roots hanging below, unattached or there can be plants where roots attach to muddy bottoms. The overall benefit is that they are easier to take care of, providing enough shade for the koi while competing with algae for the needed nutrients and reduce sunlight that assists in algae growth. In addition, the plants remove nitrogen that exists in the water, along with phosphates which makes them a great filtering system.

Water Hyacinth in a Koi Pond

Water Hyacinth in a Koi PondThe water hyacinth are popular options for floating plants. It is a species that’ annual in colder areas of North America, but in warmer regions it is perennial. They can produce blue or purple flowers, with roots forming a ‘nest’ compacted under them. They provide an excellent filtering system to remove excess nutrients.

Water Lettuce in a Koi Pond

Water Lettuce in a Koi PondThis is another free floating plant that is popular. Water lettuce is more warm/tropic climate plant which develops compact leaf clusters above the surface, while developing compact root mass under the plant.

Water Lilies in a Koi Pond

Water Lilies in a Koi PondWith floating plants that have attached roots, water lilies are the most popular option for a koi pond owner, and can be the best option from any type of aquatic plant. The water lilies do good in nearly any region of North America, no matter the season and are able to be potted and positioned at the bottom of ponds. Above the surface, pond owners get a view of pleasant leafy coverage that produces beautiful flowers to accent any pond design.

Lotus in a Koi Pond

Lotus in a Koi PondWith a similar appearance to water lilies, a lotus is among the oldest aquatic plants cultivated, making an excellent part to a koi pond. Usually, their leaves are large, and can measure up to 18-inches across. This provides a great amount of shade for koi during summer months. Commonly confused with the water lilies, a lotus flower is fragrant and beautiful. Although, it needs to be noted that lotus flowers do have substantial growth rates, and best for a larger koi pond.

Water Poppy in a Koi Pond

Water Poppy in a Koi PondThe water poppy produces smaller oval leaves with yellow flowers. They are a good option for a koi pond and grow rather fast during summer. It can provide a nice yellow accent to ponds, while providing a filtering system.

Shallow Water Marsh Plants

These plants can be planted partially submerged in the shallow march water at the edge of your pond to give your backyard pond a more natural look.

Umbrella Plants

These aquatic plants are tropical and do god in shallow water. If you live in a colder climate, they should be kept inside during the winter months. Umbrella plants have leaves with an umbrella shape on the end of longer stalks.

Water Iris in a Koi Pond

Water Iris in a Koi PondAnother favorite for koi pond owners is the water iris, as there are several pieces to choose from. They provide a long sharp leaf, and based on the species can produce different color flowers, from white, blue, or yellow. Typically, these plants are placed in pots which are submerged in the water. The majority of water iris will survive in partial or full sun, which is good for those that have tree coverage.

Horsetail in a Koi Pond

Horsetail in a Koi PondThis is aplant that is quick to grow and produces slender green stems. It’s best positioned on a peripheral section of a pond, doing best in partial shade.

Submerged plants

Generally submerged plants are grown within pots that are placed on the bottom of a koi pond. These are called the oxygenating plants in an aquatic plant class, which do amazing with removing extra nutrients, such as CO2 and nitrites from the water, while adding oxygen. However, it is good to know these type of plants is commonly uprooted by grazing koi, then eaten. They require great care to ensure they are protected.

Fanwort in a Koi Pond

One type of submergible plant is the fanwort, which is quick to grow and requires a good amount of light. This oxygenator plant I able to grow an inch daily. Using cuttings, it can be propagated.

American Waterweed (Elodea) in a Koi Pond

This species of plant does decent with silty pond substrates. With an exception of a small white flower which blooms above the surface, they are fully submerged. This plant is great with using dissolved CO2 while providing koi with cover, especially smaller koi. There is time when the leafy stalks break and will float off, and take root in another area of the pond. They do well with a milder climate.

Water Purslane (Ludwigia) in a Koi Pond

The Ludwigia family has many species, but Red Ludwigia is a nice option for koi ponds, as it grow quickly and works as an oxygenator. Pond owners can plant it for a submerged plant or allow it to float on the surface. With reddish or purple leaves, they produce small flowers. Usually they do well with plenty of direct sun light.

Phoenix Valley Pond Plants For Sale

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Koi Fish Life Expectancy

Koi Fish Lifespan

Koi fish have amazingly diverse patterns and colors and they have a very long lifespan ranging from 20 to over 200 years old but averaging around fifty years You can count the rings on their scales to determine their age! Read on to learn more.

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Koi fish have not always decorated ponds; they were originally bred for food in Japan. A few of these colorful koi impressed their breeders so much they became highly regarded. This began their journey into ponds around the world.

Seeing large brilliantly colored koi fish inspired me to look into keeping them myself. Before I purchased a koi fish, life expectancy was a serious consideration, and it should be yours as well. Their life span determines the ownership commitment, which is crucial to ensuring that you will be able to give your koi a lifelong home.

Factors Impacting Lifespan

  •  Genetics
  •  Nutrition
  •  Water Quality and Environment
  •  Wintering
  • Genetics

Nutrition

Koi need a healthy diet to live a long life. But what is the best food for koi fish? Always read the label of any food you consider purchasing, and look for the following ingredients:

  •    Protein. The first ingredient should be either fish meal or soy.
  •    Fats. Young koi need 10% fats and adults need 3% fats in their diet.
  •    Carbohydrates. Look for rose hips, soybeans, corn, or wheat in the first 5 ingredients.
  •   Vitamins and minerals. Koi need calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and sodium.

Outdoor Pond Tips

Most people keep koi in outdoor ponds due to their size. When designing their pond, consider the following:

  •   Bigger is better. Your koi fish will grow quickly; make sure they have room to grow.
  •   Sunlight. While ponds need some sunlight, too much sunlight will cause koi to overheat and encourages algae growth.
  •   Depth. Koi ponds should be at least 5 feet deep. Be sure to check where power lines are buried on your property before digging.
  •   Predators. Outdoor ponds must be protected against predators who like to eat fish.

Source: https://thewittyfish.com/how-long-do-koi-fish-live/

 

Koi Fish For Sale In Arizona

Phoenix’s best choice in Koi fish is located conveniently in Peoria Arizona. The Backyard Pond has everything you need to start, maintain, and upgrade your backyard ponds. From the liner and aquatic plants to the Koi fish themselves we can help you get your dream Koi pond started. Stop by our store or give us a call to get your questions answered.

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Water Level Indicators

How To Keep Pond Water Clear Without A Filter

Learn all about water level indicators below.

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What is Water Level Indicator?

Water level indicator definition: A water level indicator is a system that relays information back to a control panel to indicate whether a body of water has a high or low water level. Some water level indicators use a combination of probe sensors or float switches to sense water levels. “The Water Level Indicator employs a simple mechanism to detect and indicate the water level in an overhead tank or any other water container.” according to Electronics Hub.

Purpose of Water Level Indicator

The purpose of a water level indicator is to gauge and manage water levels in a water tank. The control panel can also be programmed to automatically turn on a water pump once levels get too low and refill the water back to the adequate level.

Water Level Indicator Sensor?

A water level indicator sensor, also known as a probe sensor, is what tells the control panel that corrective action is needed. A combination of high and low sensors are used to tell the control panel when water levels are too high or too low. The control panel will then automatically turn the pump on or off depending on the corrective action needed.

The working principle of a water level indicator is actually quite simple. Water level indicators work by using sensor probes to indicate water levels in a storage tank. These probes send information back to the control panel to trigger an alarm or indicator. As mentioned above, the control panel can be programmed to automatically turn on your pump to refill the water again.

  1. The water level is full – Nothing happens
  2. Water level drops to the reference probe – Alarm is triggered
  3. Fill start is triggered automatically turning on the water to fill the tank
  4. Once the water is full, fill stop is triggered and the system automatically stops the pump
  5. The system resets and waits for water levels to drop again

Depending on the manufacturer, some water level indicators will have 3 probes while others might have as much as 7.

3 Probe water level indicators use a reference probe, fill start probe and fill stop probe to manage water levels. These probes work together to manage the water levels in a tank. The reference is the lowest point you want the water level to go to before the water starts filling again. The fill start probe is usually the same length as the reference probe to ensure the pump starts filling the water once it has reached its lowest point.

5 probe water level indicators use more probes to also include alarms. They have the same reference probe but also come with a low alarm & high alarm probe that will tell you if water levels become too low or too high.

Read more about how water level indicators work

What Is The Use Of a Water Level Indicator?
Applications of a Water Level Indicator

Water level indicators can be used in Hotels, Pools, Factories, fire protection systems in buildings and more. Other applications and uses of a water level indicator include:

  • Hotels
  • Home apartments
  • Commercial complexes
  • Factories
  • Where cooling towers are used
  • Residential and commercial swimming pools
  • Anywhere water levels need to be controlled
  • In vehicles as a fuel level indicator
  • In huge containers as a liquid level indicator
  • Single phase motor
  • Single phase submersibles
  • Three phase motors
  • Open wells
  • Bore wells
  • Sump Pumps
  • Used to start and stop water pumps
  • Water level indicator for water tank

Types Of Water Level Indicators

There are many different types of water level indicators including:

  • Float switches
  • Water level controls
  • Floatless level indicators
  • Single point level indicators
  • Hanging water level sensors
  • Conductivity level sensors
  • Electronic water level indicators
  • Spark plug water level indicators
  • PVC water level sensors
  • Wireless water level sensors
  • Swimming pool water level indicators

Learn more about the different types of water level indicators

Benefits Of Water Level Indicators

  • Easy to install
  • Very little maintenance
  • Compact design
  • Automatic water level indicators ensure no overflows or running of dry pumps
  • Saves money by using less water and electricity
  • Can help avoid seepage of walls and roofs due to tanks overflowing
  • Automatic save you can save manual labor time
  • Consumes very little energy, perfect for continuous operation
  • Shows incitation of water levels in any type of tank

Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of water level indicators

Sensor Used In a Water Level Indicator

The best sensor to use in a water level indicator is stainless steel probe sensors. Stainless steel sensors prevent rusting, fouling, and deteriorating due to poor water quality. For example, we only use stainless steel sensors in all of our water level sensors.

Importance of Water Level Indicators

Water level indicators are important for many different industries. For example, cooling towers use water level indicators to monitor water levels in a tank and make corrective actions based on the level of water. Without water level indicators in a water tank, you would have to manually check whether enough water is in the tank, and should your tank ever go empty, it could mean your chiller overheating. Water level indicators allow you to remotely monitor water levels and make corrective actions automatically so you can focus on more important issues.

Water Level Indicator System

Water level indicators are usually sold as a 2-part system, the control panel, and water level indicator probe sensors. Some water level indicator systems allow up to 6 sensing probes, while others only allow 2 depending on the configuration you need. Read more about water level indicator systems.

Water Level Indicator Advantages

Water level indicator advantages include:

  • Power Saver
  • Money Saver
  • Automatic
  • Water Maximization
  • Reliable Electronic Design

Water Level Indicator Disadvantages

Water level indicator disadvantages include:

  • Water level controls need to be replaced every 3 years.
  • The rust, foul and deteriorate
  • Electronics are usually built separately
  • More difficult installation
  • Most float switches are outdated
  • No LED indicator lights
  • No Warranty or Guarantee

The Backyard Pond, LLC offers water and pond design and installation services throughout the Phoenix Valley.

Contact us today at 623-878-6695 and visit our water feature and pond design installation services page.

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How To Keep Pond Water Clear Without A Filter

How To Keep Pond Water Clear Without A Filter

You can keep your pond water clear and clean without using a filter. Filters can be expensive and cause problems depending on the climate and weather they encounter. This means you will have to find alternative ways of cleaning it in an effective manner so waster does not build up. If you do not have a filter, rotting plants, fish waste, ammonia nitrates, uneaten food and suchlike will pollute the water, hurting and maybe even killing your plants and fish. Read on to learn how you can keep your pond water clean without using a filter.

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Do Not Overstock

You need to be sure not to overstock the pond when using a filter. So do not add too many fish as they eat a lot of food and of course produce a great deal of fish waste that releases ammonia into the water. Therefore the less fish in the pond, the less waste is produced. The amount of water in the pond compared to the number of fish has to be a lot higher when you are not utilizing a filter compared to when you do have a filter.

Avoid Overfeeding Your Fish

If your fish are overfed, there will not only be a good amount of uneaten food but the food releases nitrates, nitrites and ammoinia as well as other undesirable substances. These can be harmful to fish and also produce algae blooms. The same is true for fish waste. Therefore, just feed your fish enough food to survive but do not go over the top and spoil them with foods they are not going to eat or will consume too much of. it also helps to have foods that do not contain phosphate.

Regularly Change Water

Without a filter, pond water will need to be cleaned manually. It is vital to clean away solid fish waste, uneaten food, algae, dead fish and rotting plants as they can all release ammonia into the water. You may want to remove plants, ornaments and decorations from the water from time to time and thoroughly clean them.

Utilize A UV Sterilizer

A UV Sterilizer will be enormously helpful when you have a filterless pond. As algae needs a great amount of sunlight to bloom and multiply, a UV Sterilizer neutralizes the sunlight and does a long way in keeping pond water algae free. Algae san suffocate fish and plants, as well as being unsightly and unpleasant to smell. So this is a vital component in making sure your pond water remains clean.

Nano Media Reactors

Not actually a filter, a nano media reactor works like a backup filtration unit and it removes organic compounds like ammonia and nitrates from the water. It is great to have if you have fish that produce a lot of waste. As a bonus, it is also very helpful with algae control.

Using Pond Dye

It is not the best way to keep your pond clean but it does have the advantage of having algae control. As algae needs a lot of sunlight, the pond dye works as an effective sun blocking agent preventing the growth of algae.

Have The Correct Plants

Submerged plants work as natural filters as they assist in drawing out poisonous substances from the pond water as well as absorbing fish caused waste products. Conversely, some floating plants will prevent sunlight from reaching the water helping to prevent the growth of algae.

The Backyard Pond, LLC offers water and pond design and installation services throughout the Phoenix Valley.

Contact us today at 623-878-6695 and visit our water feature and pond design installation services page.

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Pond Lighting

Pond Lighting

 

Pond lighting allows you to enjoy your pond whenever you like, night or day. With a little thought, you can design pond lighting to enhance the appearance of your pond as well as creating dramatic looking focal points. There are many lighting options available, read on to learn more about them.

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Pond Downlighting Options

Pond downlighting offers a diffused natural looking light with a very desirable natural appearance. If you are fortunate enough to have older trees surrounding the pond, installing lights in the branches can give a moonlighting style effect with the additional advantage of showcasing the surrounding landscape. Another bonus is the shadows created that can cast onto the pond from the canopy of the trees. Far easier to maintain than submersible pond lights, downlights are less hassle and greater value for money.

Submersible Pond Lights

Submersible pond lights make the water sparkle, as the light shines up through the water. Making them perfect for ponds with a wide waterfall, or a waterfall with multiple tiers, where lights need to be positioned into tight positions and into the nooks and crannies. However, even the best underwater lights can take in water, which causes damage. Moss and algae can grow over the lenses, obscuring the light. Underwater lights tend to show all of the algae, dirt and leaves floating in the pond. One more reason to keep your pond as clean as possible.

Uplighting

We prefer to use directional uplights, also known as bullet lights, above the water but close to the pond’s edge. Capable of being pointed in any direction, to cast light on the pond’s surface, to highlight foliage at the pond’s edge or to direct light toward a waterfall. Aiming light at the waterfall in this way hits the surface of the pond catches the air bubbles, and highlights the movement. Bullet lights are great for this. Because these lights aren’t in the water, they hold up better over time than submersible lights.

Overlighting

A water feature needs to be built like Mother Nature actually showed up. Don’t install a pond in your front yard with a huge elevation as that would not occur naturally. Similarly with lighting. It should look like nature is lighting it. Does the moon blast your pond with so much light you could thread a needle out there? Subtle highlights are more effective than harsh spotlights. You want to play up the best qualities of your pond, not highlight every single detail.

Mistakes To Avoid

  • Creating Glare: Glare is always a big concern when lighting a pond.  It’s important to position the fixtures so the light doesn’t hit you in the eye.
    You also want to avoid the glare of “hot spots” that come from using a single lighting source.
  • Ignoring Clarity: If your pond is murky, submersible pond lights aren’t the best choice. A clear, well-maintained pond will sparkle in the light.

 

The Backyard Pond, LLC offers water and pond design and installation services throughout the Phoenix Valley.

Contact us today at 623-878-6695 and visit our water feature and pond design installation services page.

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Aquatic Plants

Aquatic Plants

Choosing the right plants for your pond in Arizona will make it more visually stunning and preserve the health of the pond. If you’re searching “Aquatic Plants” you’re either planning a new pond or considering about how to make your present pond better.

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Aquatic Plants

Water plants are generally considered one of the best ways to enhance a water feature. Occasionally called aquatic plants, there are water plants for just about every type of water feature, from small table fountains to spacious backyard ponds. The type of aquatic plant that will best suit your water feature is will be decided by your requirements, as well as the developing features of each plant.

Tropical Night Blooming Lilies

The Antares Night Blooming Tropical Water Lily is an attractive rosy-red colored lily with 5 1/2″ – 7 1/2″ flowers. This free flowering lily has a bowl-like flower likeness and the leaves are darkish rust color. The Antares Night Blooming Tropical Water Lily opens right before nightfall and stays open until the morning hours.

Hard Water Lilies

A water garden is not complete without one or more of these elegant pond plants. The hardy water lily is available in an assortment of sizes and colors. The water lily plant, once they established in your backyard pond will reward you with a lot flowers all through the summer months. Hardy water lilies will bloom regularly May thru September.  They do great in winter and the water lily will comeback in the spring once again giving you a lovely backyard pond plant.

Tropical Water Lilies

Tropical water lilies make a stunning centerpiece in your backyard pond. Its flowers rise several inches out of the water and are more bountiful than hardy lilies. Flowers open mid-morning and will stay open until late the afternoon or early evening. Tropical water lilies can safely be placed outdoors when the water temperatures are a regular 65+ degrees. Tropical water lilies that are marked as Viviparous (producing seeds that grow on the plant itself) will endure through cooler water temperatures and bloom later into the autumn months.

Aquatic Bog Plants

Aquatic bog plants grow in shallow water or at the border of the pond. Marginal plants consist of pond plant variations that stand above the water while their feet constantly remain wet. All of the hardy bog pond plants are a perennial type and will come back every spring and bloom at various times all through the season. Hardy bog plants are valuable because they add height and proportion to the pond giving it a more natural look.

Water Iris

An additional favorite for pond owners is the water iris, as there are a lot of varieties to choose from. They supply a long sharp leaf, and depending on the species can produce various color flowers, from white, blue, to yellows. Commonly, these plants are placed in pots which are then submerged in the pond water. The majority of water iris will survive in limited or full sun, which is good for those that have some type of shade.

Lotus

Lotus plants are a hardy perennial pond plant and will give you colorful flowers year in, year out. Some water lotus species have leaves that can reach up to 2’ in circumference and massive flowers up to 12” in diameter. Some smaller and medium varieties can adapt to patio gardening also.

Aquatic Plants For Sale In Phoenix

For aquatic plants purchasing give us a call today at (623) 878-6695 or stop by our store and take a look at our wide selection of pond products. We can also install, service and maintain your fish pond.

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