Both biological and mechanical filtrations are
essential for every pond; without them, your
fish would be harmed by ammonia generated
by the accumulated fish waste. The beneficial
bacteria bed that builds on the filter media
nitrifies any ammonia in the pond making it a
healthier environment for aquatic life. Mechan-
ical filtration removes debris in suspension in
pond water keeping it cleaner and clearer.
Bio-mechanical filtration depends on the
establishment of a colony of bacteria on the
surface of the media that converts dissolved
toxic nitrogenous waste to harmless
compounds. When the bacteria are given the
proper environment, they grow in a thin
bio-film on the surface of each piece of media.
The media must first establish itself to handle
the load of dissolved ammonia. Depending on
the water temperature, it can take 2 - 4 weeks
for the filter to establish itself in the pond
environment. The ultraviolet filtration should
be left off during initial seeding to allow the
bacteria colonies to grow. The time required
varies depending on climate, weather condi-
tions, fish load and feed rates. Until the
colonies grow large enough, the pond owner
must take care to monitor levels of ammonia
and nitrates in the water and take appropriate
measures to correct any dangerously high
levels. CAUTION: Note that smaller filter media
cannot be used with this filter. It will pass into
valve possibly causing malfunction or it will
pass through - back into the pond.
The Filter Pad that is included with the pressure filter serves two purposes. First, it can be used
to quickly filter water with particulate solids and debris at the start of pond season – before
the biological filtration has had time to establish. Second, it can be used to polish water
anytime pond water has become cloudy.
7-Position Valve Selector
(Filter, Backwash, Rinse, Winterize, Circulate, Closed, Empty)
Inlet
Waste
Outlet
Pressure Gauge
UV Bulb/Quartz Sleeve (UV MODELS ONLY)
Access Cap
UV Bulb/Quartz Sleeve Access Cap
Heavy-Duty Lid Clamp with Knob
Filter Drum
Mechanical Filter Pad
BioMatrix
TM
Biological Media
Filter Base Plate (Not shown)
Water Chamber Divider
Clean Water Chamber
Bottom Drain /Access for Backwash Air Kit (Not shown)
