As the colder months approach, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your pond for winter. Neglecting this crucial step can lead to damage and potentially harm the plants and animals that call your pond home.
So, how can you ensure that your pond is ready for the cold season? We have all the tips you need to get your pond ready for winter.
Why do you need to winterise your pond?
Ponds need to be prepped for winter. If not, your pond is at risk of freezing over, which can lead to damaged plants and fish death. Doing so reduces the chances of this happening and ensures that your pond will remain healthy until the warmer months.
What do you need to do to winterise your pond?
The first step is to check that all of your equipment is in working order. This includes pipes, pumps and filters. If any of these are broken or damaged, you should replace or repair them before the cold weather sets in.
You should also reduce the amount of food you feed your fish, as they will be less active and won’t need as much food during the winter months.
Clean and remove debris
Remove leaves, twigs, and any other debris from the pond surface. Decomposing organic matter can release harmful gases and contribute to poor water quality. Trim back aquatic plants and remove any dead foliage. This helps prevent the buildup of algae into the pond.
We have a range of fish and cleaning nets to help you remove any debris from the water. Suitable for all ponds, these nets are designed to be gentle on your fish while still getting the job done.
Add netting
As the months pass, your pond will face colder temperatures, strong winds and leaf fall. To help reduce the risk of debris entering the pond and causing damage, cover it with a protective netting.
This also prevents the water from becoming contaminated by fallen leaves and other debris. Our range of pond cover nets come in various sizes, so you can find one that best suits your needs.
Clean filters, media, and pump
Before winter sets in, give your pond filters and media a thorough clean. Start by removing the filter media from your filter box and rinse it in a bucket of fresh water. This removes any debris or build-up that may be present.
Remember: NEVER clean your pond filter with tap water as this kills essential bacteria. Instead, rinse the filter media or foams in a bucket of pond water to remove organic waste.
After cleaning, replace the filter media in the filter box and check that all pipes and connections are secure.
Check that your pond pump is functioning correctly. If you have a submersible pump, it’s best to remove it from the water when temperatures start to drop, as this prevents damage caused by freezing.
UV clarifiers, for example, have bulbs which need to be changed overtime. If you don’t know the age of your UV clarifier, it’s best to replace it before winter arrives.
An Inpond filter can be during the winter, but be careful to fully immerse it and prevent it from freezing solid. If you don’t want to keep it running, follow the annual maintenance procedure in the instruction booklet and store it in a frost-free area till the season ends.
Learn how to set up your Inpond 5 in 1 / 6 in 1 filter
Remember that removing the filter will eliminate the beneficial bacteria needed to process fish waste. When you return it to the pond, you’ll need to treat it as if it were new.
Do a water change
Doing a water change is an essential part of winterising your pond. Before winter, do a partial water change (25-30%). This helps reduce nitrate levels, which can build up over time and cause problems for your fish.
For a water change, use fresh tap water treated with a water conditioner to make it safe for your fish.
Use a de-Icer or pond heater
Investing in either of these options can help prevent your pond from freezing over and keep your fish safe. A de-icer is an electric device that uses a heating element to keep a small area of the pond open. On the other hand, pond heaters can be used on larger ponds and are more energy efficient.
Monitor throughout winter
Keep an eye on your pond during winter to make sure everything is running smoothly, and check your water quality regularly. If temperatures drop below freezing, be sure to use a reliable thermometer to monitor the exact water temperature. This way, if anything needs tweaking, you can take action before it’s too late.
How do I stop my pond from freezing over?
Who knows how cold your winter will be, but it’s always better to be prepared. To prevent your pond from freezing over, invest in a reliable de-icer or pond heater.
Furthermore, keep a small area of the water open with regular water changes and oxygenation. Regularly check your thermometer to ensure that the water is at a safe temperature for your fish.
What if I want to shut down my pond?
If you decide to shut down your pond for the winter, take a few steps to ensure it’s protected against the cold. This includes:
- Remove all pump and filter systems from the water, and store them in a warm environment.
- Drain the water from your pond. If you have fish, transfer them to a tank indoors.
- Cover the pond with a tarp or netting to protect it from debris and falling leaves.
- Make sure all electrical connections have been disconnected, and the pipes are securely capped off.
- If you have any live plants, transfer them to a pot and store them inside.
- Add a layer of antifreeze to the bottom of the pond and fill it with a few inches of water.
Following these steps will help ensure that your pond and fish stay healthy over winter and are ready for the new season when it comes around!