From practice: small mistakes, big consequences for ponds and swimming ponds

We do not install swimming ponds ourselves, but support professionals with knowledge, advice, guidance, and a specialized product package. This way, we contribute to successful water projects.

At AUGA, I (Joris Wansing) guide the companies that are active in pond and swimming pond projects for the private and recreational market. In addition to advice during the design phase, I regularly visit completed projects, both for aftersales and in case of malfunctions.

And I would like to tell you a bit more about that:
Malfunctions in ponds and swimming ponds mainly occur due to small, easily preventable mistakes.

Stagnation in the flow

Insufficient flow is ranked number one among the most common malfunctions. The consequences for both the technology and water quality can be significant.

Various types of pre-filters are used in the supply to the pump. Malfunctions often arise from insufficient maintenance.

  • A skimmer basket must be cleaned regularly. If it is removed to save on maintenance, dirt flows directly to the pump. In practice, we even encounter frogs in the pipes.Skimmernet This skimmer net was full of grass clippings and snails, causing the flow to stagnate.
  • Arch screens are also often used in swimming ponds; the fine mesh screen keeps out a lot of debris, such as twigs and leaves, and relieves plant filters. The arch screen is not a self-cleaning filter. If you do not clean it or do so too late, water will flow directly to the pump via the emergency overflow, including all collected pollution, resulting in a clogged pump.
  • Drum filters also belong in this category, although drum screens are self-cleaning, this system also requires maintenance.

Well-executed piping is crucial

Not only polluted pre-filters limit the flow. Incorrectly sized pipes also contribute to this.

Design flaws limit water circulation and often lead to complaints about water quality. Connecting a bottom drain and a skimmer – or even two skimmers – to one 110 mm supply line almost always causes problems. Under free fall, a 110 mm pipe can transport a maximum of about 11 m³ of water per hour. With longer pipe runs and the use of bends, this capacity decreases further, resulting in less water reaching the pre-filter.

Connecting multiple skimmers or bottom drains to the same pipe does not increase capacity. As a result, the pump receives insufficient water supply, the skimmers do not function or function inadequately, and the circulation speed in the pond decreases. The consequence is a longer turnover time of the pond water, reduced filtering efficiency, murky water, and an increased risk of pump failures.

Too many bends, more resistance

Too many bends have the same effect. Therefore, we advise using only 45-degree elbows or 90-degree bends (swept bends). And yes, even an accidentally closed valve sometimes turns out to be the cause of a malfunction.

If the water supply to the pump stagnates, the motor temperature rises, as it depends on the flowing water. The built-in motor protection reacts and the pump stops and may even become defective over time.

Maintenance is essential

Lack of maintenance is a common cause of problems.

The maintenance frequency depends on factors such as the location of the pond, the amount of debris, and the applied filtration technique.

Filter sponges in pressure filters must be cleaned regularly. In AUGA pressure filters, a maintenance indicator helps with this, but the cleaning cycle must be activated. A short weekly flush often prevents many problems.

UV-C lamps often still emit light after one season, but largely lose their effectiveness.

The result is green water due to suspended algae. Therefore, replace the lamp annually at the beginning of the season.

We do not build swimming ponds, we build technology

Most projects function excellently and provide their owners with years of enjoyment. The basis for this lies in a good design, correct installation, and regular maintenance.

With our fully assembled technology pits, we bring all equipment for filtration, aeration, and water treatment together in a clear manner. Everything is connected watertight and thoroughly tested, creating a reliable technical foundation for every water project.

This brings certainty and convenience for our customers, as they do not have to worry about the technical part of their project and can rely on our guidance throughout the entire process.

Do you have questions or a project where you can use my/our advice? Then contact me. I am happy to help you further, my email address is j.wansing@auga.nl

Or fill out our contact form in.

 

A clear swimming pond with a technical pit from AUGA, unobtrusively placed behind the terrace.

+31(0)575 46 80 20
info@auga.nl