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Pond Filters

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the differences between pressurised and gravity filters?
Both Fish Mate Pressurised and Fish Mate Gravity Pond Filters are highly efficient at improving water quality. The pressurised range offer greater installation versatility - whereas the gravity filters must be installed above their outlet height, the pressurised filters can be installed at any height and allow the filter to be buried. For example, where a pond has a raised waterfall running into it, a gravity filter would have to be installed at the top of the waterfall; a pressurised filter could be installed at any height - even next to the pond.
Powerclenz Automatic Cleaning System is only available on Fish Mate Pressurised models.
How do I choose the right Fish Mate pond filter for my pond?
The best way to choose a filter is to calculate the volume of water in your pond then select the appropriate filter using the recommendations given on the Fish Mate filter leaflet/carton. However, for most applications certain recommendations will apply. Please consult the Fish Mate Pond Filter Selection Chart - "Pond Filter Chart English UK 0810.pdf" - that is available to download from the Literature section on this website.

Why is there no quartz sleeve on the Gravity UV+Bio filters?
The Fish Mate UV+Bio gravity filters have their bulb positioned above the water which is why they do not need a quartz sleeve. The quartzless system has several benefits - it cannot be damaged by frost and will not be affected by limescale associated with hard water areas.
The Fish Mate pressurised filters are designed with the bulb positioned inside a sleeve, which is submerged in water. The sleeve needs to be made of quartz glass to allow the UV-C light through.
What happens if I splash my gravity filter's UV bulb with water?
The UV bulb is itself made out of quartz glass and therefore, even in the unlikely event of the lamp being splashed with water, the bulb will not break. As with Fish Mate pumps, Fish Mate filters are built to comply with all of the appropriate national and international safety regulations and have a proven track record of safety.
What should I do if my Fish Mate UV+Bio Filter is not clearing my pond water, don't you have a Clear Water Guarantee?
We do have a Clear Water Guarantee if the filter is used in accordance with the instructions provided. If the correct size of filter is selected, recommendations are followed and the pond refuses to clear, we will uphold our guarantee.
To offer consumers practical help and advice, you can call our Customer Services helpline on +44 (0)1932 700 001 between 09:00 and 17:30 on Monday to Thursday and between 09:00 and 17:00 on Friday.
How many hours per day should the filter be running for?
It is important that biological pond filters should be run 24 hours per day through the year, except when there is a risk of the water freezing.
Should the filter be run all year?
All of our filters can be run throughout the year provided that there isn't a danger of the pump, filter pipes or filter freezing as this could damage the pump and/or filter. The filter does not have to be taken indoors, it only needs to be turned off and the water emptied. Gravity filters should be allowed to drain, whereas pressurised filters require the water to be emptied from their buckets.
Why when I remove the lid from my pressurised pond filter can I see sludge, even after a cleansing cycle?
The unique Powerclenz self-cleaning action is designed to restore filter flow without over-washing the biological media. Some visible sludge may remain.
Sometimes when I perform a cleansing cycle only clean water comes out?
Either your filter is reasonably clean or the sponges have become solid with sludge due to infrequent cleansing cycles. Remove the lid and if the sponges are heavily clogged, wash them manually in pond water and reassemble. Increase the frequency of your cleansing cycle regime.
How often should I change the UV lamp and filter media?
Replace the UV lamp after 6 months use, even if it is still glowing - its UV output will be greatly reduced. Replace half the SUPRA and worn/shrunken filter foams annually. Only ever use Fish Mate branded service kits and replacement parts.

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