Apline mechanical Filter, Model 3,000

[koiguy1969]

skimmers alone arent really the best way to go for filtration...most fish fecal matter and debris end up on the floor of the pond...there they will sit without a draw from the bottom. either the pump or prefilter with a submersable, or bottom drain with external pump. with a skimmer alone i would buy a vaccuum....just my opinion!

 

[DrDave]

I agree, having only a skimmer is asking for some really bad water below and a place for Dropsy to occur in otherwise healthy Koi.

 

[lauraleellbp]

I wasn't recommending only a skimmer- just starting with one to get the big stuff, then there may be room elsewhere in the line for something else...

 

[Johnnie]

Could you post a picture? That might show better where you could finagle some space...

Is your pump just sitting in the bottom of your pond?

Have you considered installing a skimmer and running your pump inside/behind your skimmer instead? The skimmer could provide some mechanical for you.

Or if a waterfall is an option rather than a fountain as a return, there's lots of both commercial units and ways to DIY a filter-waterfall.

Laura, pic? sure, see below. As to the skimmer, I will postpone it because my pond is netted all around a canopy to keep critters and leaves away. As to a waterfall, I personally prefer a fountain with 3 nozzles instead, see pics below.


My plumbing setup and photos (except no pic for savio pump because it is submerged in 3 feet of water.)

Savio	--->	hooks 	--->	A mechanical	--->	hooks 	--->	Pro-line	--->	hooks 	--->	DIY	

pump		up to		filter,replaced		up to		Bio filter		up to		Fountain