Pond Cleaning & Maintenance Service Aylesbury
If your pond is looking a little murky, our team of experts can help.
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Pond Cleaning & Maintenance Service Aylesbury Why pond maintenance is essential
Whether you have a corporate pond, school pond, garden pond or any size, all of them require maintenance every 5-10 years based on their size. Due to the different types of weather Britain has, dirt, debris, algae, and a foul smelling toxic odour can accumulate quickly. This can easily strain your filter, harm your ornamental features and decrease the lifespan of any marine life you have in your pond.
Soon enough, your aquatic oasis can turn into a hazardous environment for your fish, depriving them of light and oxygen. Don’t let these issues disbalance your pond’s ecosystem. Maintaining oxygen levels in deeper ponds is crucial, as circulation helps benefit fish and amphibians in these areas. With our comprehensive pond cleaning services, premium grade pond cleaning equipment and extensive experience, we ensure your pond’s longevity will flourish with Anthony and his team.
Pond cleaning and maintenance
Bring back the beauty of your pond and elevate its internal environment, with our thorough pond cleaning services. Proper maintenance is crucial for a new pond, including allowing the filter to establish necessary bacteria before stocking fish.
Our pond cleaning process
Pond maintenance and cleaning is not a one size fits all process. Ultimately it depends on the size of your pond, structure, inhabitants and location. After an initial inspection, we’ll work with you to provide a customised cleaning process that preserves the health of your pond for as long as possible.
We also offer pond hoovering cleaning services and cater to private and business pond maintenance contracts. With cutting edge pond cleaning equipment, we strive to provide you with a total restoration, often within 24-72 hours.
Steps to securing a healthy pond
Generally, our comprehensive clean consists of:
Draining the pond/water feature fully
Placing all fish/wildlife into an aerated holding tank
Cleaning the pond liner using a power washer
Removing all debris/sludge from the pond by vacuuming out
Managing pond algae by manual removal and using bubble fountains to improve oxygenation and deter algae proliferation
Removing excess vegetation if required
Cleaning the pond filter
Cleaning the pond pump
Changing the UV bulb (If needed and requested)
Cleaning the quartz sleeve (If needed and requested)
Carrying out any repairs if needed
Refilling the pond with water from the pond and topped up with tap water.
Treatments added-dechlorinator and bacteria to start the filter.
Restarting the system as a back up
Reinstalling the Fish & Wildlife
Receive a first class clean from us
When it comes to pond cleaning and maintenance, we’re known for our attention to detail. While every pond is unique, we always strive to provide competitive prices that are comfortable for our customers.
Essential Guide to Effective Pond Cleaning for a Healthy Ecosystem
I. Introduction to Pond Maintenance
Learn the importance of regular pond maintenance for a healthy ecosystem.
Understand the key components of a well-maintained pond, including pond plants, pond water, and equipment.
Discover the benefits of a clean and well-maintained pond, including improved water quality and increased biodiversity.
II. Pre-Cleaning Preparation
Preparing the Pond for Cleaning
Turn off the pond pump and other equipment to prevent damage during cleaning.
Remove any fish or other aquatic life from the pond and transfer them to a temporary holding tank.
Cover the pond with a net to prevent debris and contaminants from entering the water.
III. Cleaning the Pond
Draining and Cleaning the Pond
Use a clean-out pump to remove debris and contaminants from the pond.
Scoop out any remaining debris or sediment from the pond bottom.
Power wash the pond liner and surrounding surfaces to remove algae and other growth.
Power Washing and Filter Maintenance
Power washing is an essential step in maintaining a healthy and clean pond. Using a power washer or high-pressure nozzle, you can effectively clean the pond liner, rocks, and other surfaces. Start at one end of the pond and methodically work your way to the other side, ensuring to spray water into every crevice and crack to dislodge all the muck and debris. This thorough cleaning helps to remove accumulated dirt and algae, improving the overall water quality.
Regular filter maintenance is crucial to keep the pond water clean and clear. Clean the pond filter and skimmer to ensure they function properly and maintain water quality. Rinse the filter mats, bioballs, and filter containers clean with the garden hose. After cleaning, add an additive to give the filter bacteria a boost, promoting a balanced and healthy pond ecosystem. By maintaining your pond filter, you can prevent issues such as green water and algae growth, ensuring your pond remains a beautiful and healthy feature in your garden.
IV. Pond Water Quality Management
Maintaining Healthy Pond Water
Test the pond water for pH, ammonia, and nitrite levels to ensure a healthy environment for aquatic life.
Use beneficial bacteria to break down organic waste and maintain a balanced ecosystem.
Regularly monitor water temperature to ensure it’s within a safe range for fish and other aquatic life.
During cold weather, monitor pond conditions closely. Maintain oxygen levels by using pond aerators and de-icers to prevent ice buildup. This helps ensure the health of fish and plants when the pond freezes.
V. Pond Plant Care
The Importance of Pond Plants
Learn how pond plants help to maintain water quality and provide habitat for aquatic life.
Understand the different types of pond plants, including floating plants, submerged plants, and marginal plants.
Discover how to care for pond plants, including pruning, fertilizing, and dividing.
VI. Equipment Maintenance
Cleaning Filters and Skimmers
Regularly clean and maintain the pond filter and skimmer to ensure proper water circulation and filtration.
Replace filter media and clean the skimmer basket to prevent clogging.
Check the pond pump and other equipment for signs of wear and tear.
VII. Refilling and Restarting the Pond
Refilling the Pond with Clean Water
Use dechlorinated tap water or rainwater to refill the pond.
Monitor water temperature to ensure it’s within a safe range for fish and other aquatic life.
Restart the pond pump and other equipment to circulate the water and maintain a healthy ecosystem.
VIII. Regular Pond Maintenance Schedule
Regularly inspect the pond and its equipment to ensure everything is working properly.
Perform routine maintenance tasks, such as cleaning the filter and skimmer, and monitoring water quality.
Schedule regular water changes and partial drainings to maintain a healthy ecosystem.
Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to keep your pond in good condition and prevent issues. Start by checking the pond liner for any signs of damage or leaks, and repair or replace it as needed. Inspect the pond pump and filter to ensure they are working efficiently and effectively. Monitoring the water quality and temperature is also crucial; make adjustments as needed to maintain a healthy environment for your aquatic life.
Perform regular water changes to maintain optimal water quality and prevent algae growth. Check the pond plants and trim or prune them as needed to maintain a healthy and balanced ecosystem. Regularly inspect the pond for signs of wildlife, such as birds, frogs, and insects, and take steps to create a welcoming environment for them. By staying proactive with your pond maintenance, you can ensure a thriving and vibrant pond that enhances your garden’s beauty and supports a diverse range of wildlife.
IX. Seasonal Pond Care
Summer and Winter Pond Care Tips
Learn how to care for your pond during extreme weather conditions, including hot summer weather and cold winter weather.
Understand how to prevent algae growth and maintain water quality during the summer months.
Discover how to protect your pond from freezing temperatures and maintain a healthy ecosystem during the winter months.
Emphasize the importance of regular maintenance for wildlife ponds to ensure a thriving habitat for local creatures. Carry out various maintenance tasks throughout the seasons to support plant health, water quality, and the overall ecological balance of the ponds.
X. Pond Liner Inspection and Maintenance
Regularly inspect the pond liner for signs of damage or wear and tear.
Perform routine maintenance tasks, such as cleaning the liner and repairing any damage.
Consider replacing the pond liner if it’s old or damaged to prevent leaks and maintain a healthy ecosystem.
XI. Safety Precautions and Considerations
Learn how to safely clean and maintain your pond, including wearing protective gear and using proper equipment.
Understand the importance of safety precautions, such as fencing and netting, to prevent accidents and injuries.
Discover how to create a safe and healthy environment for wildlife and aquatic life in your pond.
XII. Conclusion
Summarize the importance of regular pond maintenance for a healthy ecosystem.
Review the key components of a well-maintained pond, including pond plants, pond water, and equipment.
Encourage readers to take action and start maintaining their pond today to create a thriving and healthy ecosystem.
Our maintenance contracts have different levels from total peace of mind to a yearly visit. This package leaves you with total peace of mind and means you don’t need to carry out any maintenance yourself at all.
What comes with this package:
Complete Maintenance Package
Total of 6 visits through-out the year.
2 Seasonal visits and 4 Maintenance visits
Seasonal visits could Include:
- Complete pond liner vacuuming
- Clean debris from the bottom of the pond by vacuuming (once a year)
- Cut back pond plants
- Clean and service all pond equipment (pump and filter)
- Check water parameters e.g.pH, kH, gH, NO2, NO3, etc.
- Treat for phosphates
- UV bulb change (if applicable)
- Pump and filter strip apart clean
- Treatment for blanket weed if needed
- Equipment check
Maintenance visit to include:
- Clean of the pump and filter set
Helpline support Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm
Emergency call-outs throughout the year for any equipment issues.
This package means you will have much less maintenance to take care of. It takes a weight off your shoulders, however, also gives you the freedom to complete some maintenance yourself.
What comes with this package:
Total of 4 visits through-out the year.
2 Seasonal visits and 2 Maintenance visits
Seasonal visits could Include:
- Complete pond liner vacuuming
- Cut back pond plants
- Clean and service all pond equipment (pump and filter)
- Check water parameters e.g.pH, kH, gH, NO2, NO3, etc.
- Treat for phosphates
- UV bulb change (if applicable)
- Pump and filter strip apart clean
- Treatment for blanket weed if needed
- Equipment check
Maintenance visit to include:
- Clean of of the pump and filter set
Helpline support Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm
Emergency call-outs throughout the year for any equipment issues.
If you’re wanting a small amount of maintenance to keep your pond flourishing throughout the year, then this will be your package of choice.
What comes with this package:
Total of 2 visits through-out the year.
Visits could Include:
- Cut back pond plants
- Clean and service all pond equipment (pump and filter)
- Check water parameters e.g.pH, kH, gH, NO2, NO3, etc.
- Treat for phosphates
- UV bulb change (if applicable)
- Pump and filter strip apart clean
- Treatment for blanket weed if needed
- Equipment check
Helpline support Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm
Emergency call-outs throughout the year
MY POND IS OVERGROWN.
If you have a small pool and the plants have not been managed for a number of years, you can simply cut them back or pull some of them out. You do have to be careful however as very often these pools have good water quality because the plants are absorbing the nutrients. The key thing then, is not to rip out too many of the plants because you can go from clear, relatively nice-looking water to something full of algae, simply because you have pulled too many of the plants out.
If you have a much bigger pond, a lake or a lochan then commonly some of the problems are with some of the very vigorous plants like bulrush or Norfolk reed and these need spraying off, and that is the best way to control them. Ideally you do not plant Typha (bulrush) or Norfolk reed in ornamental systems simply because they tend to take over completely. There is also a small-leafed lily called Nymphoides peltata which you have to avoid like the plague and these all need spraying in order to control them.
MY POND IS LEAKING – WHAT CAN I DO?
Probably the commonest problem that we get approached with is a pond that is leaking and there are various steps you can take to diagnose what’s going on
- If you have a pump and a stream or waterfall and the pond is going down, turn the pump off and the fill the pond up. If you do not get any water loss then, it means that the problem is either in the hose from the pump to the top of the water course, or in the water course, which is actually the commonest cause. If it is in the water course, put the pump back on and see if you can see anywhere where the water is actually leaking out the sides either over a liner or through concrete or whatever. Once you locate it, you can fix it.
- The other thing that can happen is simply debris accumulating in narrow points in the stream or cascade backing the water up behind it and it then flowing out the sides, and you lose water that way.
- Assuming you have not got a water course, or that the leak is not there, then the other obvious problem is a hole in the liner. Again, if you do not fill the pond up and let the pond drop, it will eventually drop to where the hole is, you can then find it and potentially patch it.
- One other cause of ponds going down is a liner that is behind stones or something, somebody stands on the stone, pushes the liner down and the water runs out over the top of a new low point and you end up with what looks like a leak. If you can locate that, just pull the liner back up and you will not have a leak any more
WHY IS MY POND WATER GREEN?
There may be a number of reasons why your pond is so green. First of all, you may have too small of a pump or filter for the size of your pond. Secondly, your pond may be in full sun which creates a perfect environment for algae blooms, or the pond is very shallow, particularly around the edges and doesn’t get much water circulation. You can remedy these things by first checking your pump and filter size for your pond. If it is in full sun, you will have to increase the size of the filter and pump to compensate for the increased algae blooms that will occur in full sun. If you recently made a water exchange or filled your pond within a few weeks, you may need to be patient as your pond hasn’t found it’s ecological balance yet. If it’s a brand new pond, I would recommend waiting at least 4-6 weeks for your pond to find it’s balance. Hold off on any chemicals. Add some Microbe Lift which is all-natural beneficial bacteria and organic barley straw bales to your pond. This increases the function of your biological filter and combats algae blooms including string algae. Every pond should have them.
One point to note, is that you must be equipped with a large enough pump, filter and biological media for the beneficial bacteria to grow on and be patient and allow the pond to find it’s natural ecological system. You want to try to correct the problem instead of needing to add chemicals to it all the time. Another thing that could be adding to your algae blooms is the frequent addition of cold tap water to your pond. Whenever you add cold tap water to your pond and the pond is in the heat of full sun, it creates a great environment for algae to increase. Try to eliminate adding tap water to your pond and you just may reduce the algae. Every time you add tap water, your pond has to adjust and find it’s eco-balance. If you’re continually adding more water to your pond, your pond will never really balance itself and you’ll try to combat algae and ammonia levels all the time. In either of these situations, get at the root of the problem whether it’s the wrong pump or filter size or the addition of cold tap water and see if it doesn’t correct itself. If you’re having a problem with this and need some advise, contact us and we’ll be happy to assist you. If you need to add tap water, run the water through some Super Activated Filter Carbon to take out the chlorine and chloramine and add more beneficial bacteria to it afterwards.
Do I need to have my pumps running all the time?
Pumps give your pond water circulation. If they are the right size for your pond and are properly placed, they eliminate stagnant water and provide oxygen to your pond. If they are connected or pumped to a filter, you reduce the effectiveness of the filter if your pump is not on and may end up having unsightly water and elevated levels of ammonia providing you have fish. If you have multiple pumps, you most likely may not need to have all of them running as long as you have at least 1/2 the total gallons of your pond pumped every hour (there is a different formula for very large ponds – contact us and we will assist you in calculating proper aeration for your pond) for good water circulation. So, as long as you have good circulation and enough oxygen in your pond, you don’t necessarily need to have all of your pumps running all of the time.