Pond Filtration – the Skimmer or Skimmer box explained:

What does a Skimmer look like?

A skimmer is essentially a plastic container with pipe holes and a face plate which serves several purposes. Its main components are a pump chamber, plastic matting, collection basket and weir door. It is consealed within an ecosystem pond build.

What purpose does a skimmer serve?

The skimmer is the first stage of our mechanical filtration.

It houses, protects and conceals our pump. The pump circulates water from the pond on to the Biofalls or wetland filtration as-well-as circulation jets if present. The draw of the pump allows the skimmer to collect water from the pond.

The pump is separated from the water entering the skimmer by a layer of matting. This has a large surface area, which collects any debris that by-passes the collection basket. It also spreads the suction effect of the pump, helping to protect wildlife that may enter the unit.

A floating weir door adjusts to the water level ensuring that only the surface water from the pond is collected, hence the name ‘skimmer’.

By skimming off the surface water from the pond, we are also able to collect any floating waste or debris such as twigs, leaves or duckweed. Collecting this waste before it can sink within the main water body, reduces the waste load within the pond. This helps to keep the pond cleaner for longer.

The waste collects in a removable basket allowing easy removal from the system as part of routine maintenance.

This surface layer of water is rich in oxygen which boosts the beneficial bacterial colonies within the filtration media.

Where is a skimmer located?

The skimmer is usually located at the opposite end of the pond to the waterfall, Biofalls or Wetland area. This allows for maximum circulation through the pond. To conceal it we use a faux rock cover, allowing easy access for maintenance.

Which model skimmer do I need?

When sizing a skimmer to a pond we look at the model number and cross reference it to surface area. An Aquascape Signature Series 400 model corresponds to a pond surface area up to 400 ft² or 37m², whereas a Signiture Series 1000 model maxes out at 1000ft² or 93m². This is considered in relation to other design factors, features and components when specifying pond filtration equipment.

The skimmer 1000 offers an adjustable weir door and more substantial basket, making it a go-to when space and design allow.

Is there a skimmer alternative?

An alternative is the intake bay which can be installed instead of, or in conjunction with a skimmer. Watch out for a blog post on the Intake bay.

IIf you are looking for a beautiful natural style pond with integrated filtration components including this skimmer unit, contact us here.