Independent Fish Mate pond pump help since 2003help@fishmate.co.uk
POND MAINTENANCE CALENDAR

Small regular checks prevent most major failures.

Your exact routine depends on pond size, fish load, equipment and weather. Use this as a reminder and follow each product’s manual.

SPRING

Restart carefully

  • Inspect cables, hoses, clips and seals before increasing flow.
  • Remove accumulated debris without stripping the pond of all life.
  • Test water as fish activity and feeding increase.
  • Check the UV lamp’s age and replace it on schedule.
  • Divide or repot congested plants where appropriate.
SUMMER

Protect oxygen and level

  • Check water level and top up with conditioned water when needed.
  • Increase aeration during hot, still weather.
  • Remove uneaten food and decaying leaves.
  • Clean mechanical media before flow becomes restricted.
  • Check waterfalls and fountains after windy weather.
AUTUMN

Keep leaves out

  • Use a suitable net where practical and safe.
  • Remove fallen leaves before they sink and decay.
  • Reduce feeding as water temperature falls.
  • Inspect the pump platform and hose route.
  • Record parts that should be replaced before spring.
WINTER

Avoid sudden changes

  • Follow fish and equipment guidance for cold weather.
  • Maintain gas exchange without violently mixing warmer deep water.
  • Never smash ice because shock waves can harm fish.
  • Keep essential circulation and aeration free from blockage.
  • Check after freezes, storms and power cuts.

Five-minute weekly check

Monthly record

Write down water-test results, maintenance completed, fish added, treatments used and changes in flow. Record the exact pump, filter, UV lamp and replacement-part references. This turns guesswork into useful history when a problem appears.

Never service powered pond equipment in the water.

Isolate the electricity first. If the RCD trips repeatedly, do not keep resetting it—disconnect the suspect equipment and obtain qualified advice.