How to Choose a Pump

Let’s look at how to choose a pump:

With each pump on this web site, there is a chart showing how many GPM (gallons per minute) or GPH (gallons per hour) that the pump will provide at a given feet of head (the height above the pond water level that the pump will have to move the water). When choosing a pump for a waterfall or stream, consider that it takes about 36 GPM (1,800 GPH) for every 1 foot of width to have 1” of water cascading over the waterfall. This gives you an average good flow. If you want Niagara Falls, go with more, if you want a gentle falls, go with less.

Example
If you are building a waterfall that is 2 feet wide and is 10 feet above the surface of the pond, you will need a pump that can move 72 GPM (4,320 GPH) at 10 feet of head for an average looking waterfall.

Be sure to use the Maximum Recommended Flow Rates table to select the correct size water line, and if it is a long run (over 50 feet) use the Friction Loss in Water Pipe table to determine if you should increase the pipe size.

If you are confused, call, fax or email us at info@keystonehatcheries.com for assistance. Otherwise, the table below gives lots of information on the pumps that we use and recommend for waterfalls and streams.

Submersible Pump Comparison Chart

(Does not include Mag Drive Pump under 4700 GPH or External Pumps.)