The PSM system can produce crystal clear water that allows the choice of either a bare liner or a gravel and decorative rock liner cover without concern for the accumulation of debris.

Skimmer

Skimmer & Filter

The PSM family of filters will purify up to 5,000 gallons of water when used together as part of the PSM Ecosystem, or even larger ponds with multiple filters.

1. The new cross-flow design of our skimmer assures that even the largest pumps (20,000 gph in the PS1500) will be protected by a leaf net and uncut filter mats.

2. Surface water is drawn into the bellows weir opening. Our patented bellows-weir design dramatically increases pond skimming and also simplifies skimmer and pump maintenance.

3. Our constant-flow design forces more water through the mats even when dirt partially blocks the flow of water through the skimmer. One glance will tell you when the mats should be cleaned out.

4. Bulkhead Fitting (sandwiching liner): The bottom drain inlet goes through the liner near the surface and next to the skimmer, not through the pond bottom.

5. Autofill Valve (optional): Maintains water level without the need to monitor. Less water is added at one time, preventing problems caused by adding cold water and over chlorinating.

6. External or submersible, standard or high-efficiency pumps are hidden outside the pond and operate silently for years to keep your pond water crystal-clear. (Purchase separately)

7. Bottom Drain. (optional). Recommended for heavy fish loads and ponds over 2' deep.

8. We recommend 45 mil, fish-safe PondGuard© (from FireStone) liners with or without underlayment depending on soil conditions. (Purchase separately)

9. Rocks and gravel in the stream and pond can be used to hide and protect the liner, and add a huge biological substrate for pond bacteria and natural aquatic landscaping without the need for pots.

10. Underwater lights make your pond sparkle at night. (optional).

11. Ultraviolet Light Sterilizer (optional).

12. A built-in waterfall ledge holds the waterfalls stone. Water flows downstream from the biological filter into the pond aerating the water as it cascades.

13. Flexible piping simplifies installation to save time.

14. Flexible piping if freezing risk; rigid piping for warm climates

15. Optional gravel/rock plant mesh baskets or adjustable rock shelf hide the filter edges and create plant filter pockets. Typically requires only annual cleaning.

*Bottom Drain Benefits: For years pond keepers have sought an easy way to install both bottom drains and surface skimmers. Proponents of skimming systems argued it was best to catch the debris while it floated before it could sink. Bottom drain proponents correctly argued that some debris, fish waste and ammonia simply fell to the bottom of the pond and the bottom drain was the best way to remove it. VOILA...PSM is proud to offer a single filter system that does both.... surface skim and bottom drain.

A garden pond enhances the appearance and provides a focal point for any landscape. While it is possible to create and maintain a clear pond with no water flow or filtration, the delicate balance needed to maintain this appearance is difficult to achieve. Pumps and filters which are located in the pond will work for a time, but the need for cleaning and maintenance makes this a messy and frustrating option. In addition, leaves, months of dust and debris that fall into the pond will sink to the bottom and decay forming a thick sludge.

The patented PSA ecosystem using the PondSweep®™ skimmer and the PuriFalls® biological filter/waterfalls solves these problems and adds additional benefits. The PondSweep® skimming action removes most leaves and debris before they have a chance to sink. The optional bottom drain recirculates water from the pond bottom when optimal cleaning is desired. The filtration mats are contained in an easy-to-empty tray and the pump is accessible but hidden from view.

The PuriFalls® upflow biological filter uses three media: thick washable, plastic media filter mats; net bags for a media of your choice, such as lava rock or Balance Ceramic media; finally, plants held in mesh baskets.

The PSA system can produce crystal clear water that allows you to use gravel and decorative rock to extend the landscape to the bottom of the pond without concern for the accumulation of debris. By creating a waterfall and stream, the beauty of a pond is enhanced by the flow of water and soothing sounds created by moving water. The value of the water feature is increased because of the improved appearance and ease of installation.

Our system was designed to work with nature and use no harsh chemicals like algaecides. We recommend using 1" to 3" diameter smooth river gravel to form a substrate in the pond and stream. We also recommend seeding the pond and filter media with a variety of bacteria.

This pond has been running without benificial seed bacteria or a separate biological filter

Once bacteria and an external biological filter were installed the water quickly cleared up and has remained clear for 5 years.

When an in the pond pump becomes clogged with leaves, algae or other debris, it can be time consuming and messy to clean. Courtesy of:   Click here to return to Water Garden page