How to Clean Cloudy Pond Water With a UV Clarifier
- 1). Select a UV clarifier at your pond or garden-supply store. The power of these filters is measured by the watts put out by the UV bulb. The size of the bulb that you need depends on your installation. Ponds up to 400 gallons require an 8 W bulb, while ponds between 400 and 800 gallons require 15 W, and ponds over 800 gallons require at least a 25 W UV bulb. Keep in mind the flow rate of your pump and the width of your plumbing tubing. For example, if you have a pump that is rated at 125gph, you'll need a UV filter that can support that rate, or less. The UV filters also come in different pluming widths; if you're currently using 1 1/2-inch tubing in your pond's plumbing, installation will be easiest if you purchase a UV filter with 1 1/2-inch openings.
- 2). Determine where to place your filter. You want to put the filter inline with your pond pump's intake, but still a few feet away. Do not put the UV filter near any water outlets, such as waterfalls, fountains or aerators. The filter also requires a power supply, so make sure that you have adequate space on your circuit to support its electrical needs.
- 3). Turn off all power to the pond, including pumps, lights and aerators.
- 4). Insert the UV filter into your pond's plumbing. If you're using compression fittings, it will be fairly easy to loosen the fittings and insert the UV filter with any other appropriate plumbing, if needed. However, if you are using PVC pipes with soldered connections, you will have to use a hacksaw and cut off enough pipe to insert the UV filter into the plumbing, along with connection fittings.
- 5). Turn the electricity back on, along with any water features.
- 6). Turn on the UV filter. It will begin working immediately and you should see noticeably clearer water in a matter of days.
