Elegant Koi Pond Design - Tips for Successful Pond Piping

With all the things you have to decide on when designing your Koi pond, it is little wonder many owners don't pay much attention to those ugly pipes and valves. Just remember that nothing will work without them and things might not work as you expect if you don't make the right choice when selecting the plumbing components. Plan ahead. Lay out a schematic of all the piping and valves that will be required for the project. This will allow you to see the whole thing at once so you can make critical decisions on the size of various pieces of pipe, the types of valves to be used, whether there will be any sections underground and whether there will be any places under pressure.

With that planning done, what types of piping and valves should you use? Flexible hose is one choice. It is very versatile and available in long lengths. It easily handles curves and corners that your layout will require. The major problem with it is that it won't allow the variety of valves and accessories that most koi ponds require. As a result it is normally only used where rigid piping won't work.

Rigid plastic pipe is the best type to use for Koi pond installations. This will create a durable, efficient and professional looking system. Whatever pipework you choose ,follow these simple tips. Ensure you use the right type and size pipe for the job to be done. For example, make sure you use at least a 4 in. pipe for the pond drain on a gravity-fed system to handle the large waste particles flowing through it.

Next, before gluing solvent-weld connections (always use solvent-weld piping) place the valves and piping in place for a "dry run." Once they're glued they will never come apart. Mark all pieces so you'll know later which pieces go where.

Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for proper pipe dimensions. Usually the greater the pipe dimension, the less resistance resulting in a lower flow loss. Finally, use plenty of valves so that you can isolate pumps and other devices for easy removal, repair or replacement. The alternative is to cut the piping to remove them - a very expensive and time consuming approach. Always use a slide or ball valve before the filtration system so it can be isolated from the pond for maintenance and cleaning.

These simple steps should make your Koi pond project go a lot faster with better results and less money out of your pocket.