Pond filtration is one of the most important and also one of the most frustrating aspects of pond maintenance. Ponds require several different types of filtration in order to keep the water in optimum shape to support life, both plant life as well as fish. One key component to the filtration system for a pond is a fine particle sand filter. This type of filter removes the smallest debris from the water and keeps it crystal clear. Commercially available sand filters can be expensive. Make your own for a fraction of the cost.

Cut an inlet and outlet hole in the bucket. In order to get water out of the filter, cut a hole in the front of the bucket large enough for the PVC pipe to pass through. This hole should be approximately 7.5 cm (3 inches) from the bottom of the bucket. Next, cut a large hole in the bucket's lid to allow water to enter the filter.

  • Pond filtration is one of the most important and also one of the most frustrating aspects of pond maintenance.
  • In order to get water out of the filter, cut a hole in the front of the bucket large enough for the PVC pipe to pass through.

Insert the PVC pipe. Pass the PVC pipe into the hole at the bottom of the bucket and insert it approximately 7.5 cm to 10 cm (3 to 4 inches) into the bucket. Seal the pipe by applying clear silicone around both the inside and outside surfaces of the bucket around the pipe and allow drying.

  • Pass the PVC pipe into the hole at the bottom of the bucket and insert it approximately 7.5 cm to 10 cm (3 to 4 inches) into the bucket.

Attach the outlet hose. Attach the 1.8 m (6 foot) length of rubberised hose to the outside half of the PVC pipe with a radiator hose clamp.

Cut a piece of window screen. This will prevent debris that is too large from entering into the filter. Measure the screen against the top of the bucket and cut it so that there is approximately 2.5 to 3.7 cm (1 to 1 1/2 inches) of overhang.

Add filter media. In the bottom one-third of the bucket, add the aquarium gravel. On top of the gravel, add the fine particle sand. Leave the top one-third of the bucket empty so that there is room for the water to enter the filter.

Connect the pump. Attach the pond pump to the rubberised hose, place the window screen over the top of the bucket and replace the lid, securing the screen in place. Place the pump and the filter into the pond. Allow the water to fill the pump and filter and then turn it on.

  • In the bottom one-third of the bucket, add the aquarium gravel.
  • Allow the water to fill the pump and filter and then turn it on.