Best Waterfall Pumps

Top 10 Best Waterfall Pumps for Your Backyard Pond

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Moving water is breathtaking. Any backyard pond can create an appealing atmosphere and contribute to the visual value of the landscape, but when water bubbles, trickles or creates a spray that catches a rainbow prism of hues, the effect can be a little short of a miracle.

While appealing, non-moving water tends to stagnate, installing a waterfall pump to recirculate the water in a pond can maintain the water fresh and free of mosquitoes.

The best waterfall pump ranges by the type of water feature and the expected effect. Ahead, let’s have an insight into the various types of waterfall pumps and learn why the followings are great at generating water-moving effects in the landscape.

Overall Pond Pumps Buying Guide

Pond pumps are available in an array of sizes and styles for different purposes. The perfect model for a concrete fountain might not be suitable for a pond or other water features. Whether your intent is to create a pond or build a waterfall, let’s take the factors below into consideration, which can effectively enhance the water feature.

Type

There are two main types of pond pumps – submersible and external – and each has its unique best uses and considerations. Instead of waiting until the water feature is finished, you should begin thinking about the type of pump during the pond’s planning stage.

Submersible: The majority of backyard pond pumps are submersible, which means the pump stays beneath the water. These pumps work more quietly than external ones, as the water can muffle the motor’s sound. They range in size and power, but they are less robust than external pump models.

External: With this pump type, the motor stays above the water and connects to tubing or piping below water level. It provides the ultimate in water-moving power but might make some noise. They are often used in commercial water features.

Operation

Pond pumps also range in their operation that can affect both power and efficiency.

  • Direct drive: The most popular type of submersible pond pump, a direct-drive pump, contains an impeller (the rotating, fan-similar apparatus that moves water) that attaches directly to the motor. Depending on other factors like size, a direct-drive pump is one of the most robust submersible units, and it’s less inclined to clog with debris.
  • Magnetic drive: A magnet turns the impeller into a magnetic drive pump. Although not as powerful as direct-drive pumps, magnetic drive pumps are more energy-effective, which better suit smaller ponds and water features.
  • Centrifugal: This type of pump can support large water features but might require particular plumbing based on placement. In commercial uses, a centrifugal pump is often stored in a separate pump house. In a residential setting, you may find the noise distracting, which depends on the pump’s quality.

Variations

There is a number of types of water pumps that make different water features run seamlessly.

  • Utility pump: Utility pumps can aid in draining ponds or removing water from basements. These multipurpose pumps are robust, blaring, and run on either electricity or gas. They drain ponds effectively but are not proper for maintaining a continuous water feature, like a trickling waterfall.
  • Inline pump: This is a different term for “centrifugal pump”. An inline pump attaches to a hose or pipes to move water from one location to another. All external pumps run on an inline basis, based on the model, may include one or more impellers.
  • Solids pump: Specifically constructed to be submersible, a solids pump can contain small debris, like tiny bits of dirt or leaves, without getting clogged. It does not require a special filter, but it’s not appropriate for use in ponds with tadpoles, goldfish, and other aquatic life that could be harmed by being drawn through the pump.
  • Solar pump: Well proper for small water features like birdbaths, solar pumps leverage energy from the sun and use it to circulate water. Most are quite small and created to float on the surface of the water.

Related:

Pump Size and Flow Rate

The quantity of water a pump can handle ranges from a few gallons to thousands or more. To choose the right-size pump, you should consider both the quantity of water in the pond and the desired quantity of water circulation. Flow rate shows that how much water a pump can transfer within one hour.

For filtration: If you want to recirculate the water in the pond through a filter to keep it clean and clear of debris, the general rule is to get a pump that can remove half the pond water within 1 hour. For instance, a pump that transfers 250 gallons of water per hour is suitable for keeping the water clean in a 500-gallon pond.

For fountains: Pumping water upward needs more power, and pumps created for waterfalls or fountains will have the GPH flow rate and the maximum quantity of vertical distance the model can pump water. This is shown as the pump’s optimum “lift”. For example, you’ll need to get a model with a 2-foot lift to pump water to a 2-foot fountain above the pump.

For waterfalls: Waterfalls usually meander, and in several configurations, a pump may need to transfer water both horizontally and vertically. For the proper-size pump for a waterfall, determine the vertical height just as for a fountain, but plus 1 foot of the desired lift for every 10 feet of horizontal tubing. For instance. if the waterfall’s top is 2 feet above the pump’s height and the water runs horizontally through tubing for an extra 10 feet, add 1 foot to the lift requirement, for a total life of 3 feet.

Installation Requirements

Submersible pumps are the easiest to install. Usually, users choose the least-visible spot for the pump and implement the cord between rocks and other pond-scaping materials to disguise it. Depending on the model, the pump may include an on-off switch on the cord or turn on automatically when plugged into an outlet.

In many cases, these pumps require no extra plumbing and wiring. Some submersible pumps may need plugging into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet (consult the user’s manual), which should shut power off instantly if the outlet identifies a surge in electricity.

External pumps are fewer DIY-friendly as they usually need additional plumbing or building a pump house to hide the pump. It ranges in size and the complexity of the plumbing layout. A user might need the help of a professional plumber or an electrician (for direct wiring) for some pond designs and water features.

A-List of the Best Waterfall Pumps for Your Pond

1. TotalPond 1200 GPH Waterfall Pump

TotalPond 1200 GPH Waterfall Pump
TotalPond 1200 GPH Waterfall Pump

Built with New Revolution pump technology and an advanced design, the TotalPond 1200 GPH Waterfall Pump can pump 1,200 GPH and can generate a 5-foot waterfall. Hence, it is a perfect choice for medium-sized ponds.

The magnetic-drive motor is constructed to operate continuously and it includes just one moving part, a ceramic shaft, and an impeller. That requires low maintenance and saves you a lot of money. Additionally, thanks to its quiet operation, users can enjoy your water garden or feature without any disturbing background mechanical noise.

This waterfall pump sports an innovative internal design that enables large debris particles to flow out of the discharge area. Small ones will go out of the pump’s rear, which makes sure that the shafts and bearings are being constantly cleaned.

What’s more, the Pumpshield mesh barrier bag helps prevent any debris from clogging up the pump, and the back spitting feature can prevent the pump from getting overheated.

In addition to being designed for waterfalls, it can be leveraged for piped statuary, fountains, and general water backyard ponds. And since the motor is oil-free, it can also be used in a Koi pond.

The pump works well with 1.50 and 2-inch tubing. It is packed with a 16-foot power cord and the manufacture provides a one-year warranty.

For the most desired results, TotalPond suggests that you use the larger tubing size to decrease friction and maximum water flow. You should use the pump in water temperature between 41 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Bear in mind that the power cord is connected securely or the pump might stop working.

Pros

  • Good value for money
  • A new and enhanced design
  • Oil-free motor
  • Quiet operation
  • Energy-effective

Cons

  • Not proper for a smaller or larger pond
  • You need to ensure that the power cord is connected safely.

2. Atlantic Water Garden FP200

Atlantic Water Gardens FP200 Adjustable Flow Fountain and Water Feature Pump, 200GPH
Atlantic Water Gardens FP200 Adjustable Flow Fountain and Water Feature Pump, 200GPH

For excellent performance, simple installation, and a competitive price, the Atlantic Water Garden Pump brings you everything necessary to generate a stunning waterfall in your pond.

Though it’s constructed to work in smaller ponds, it can create a strong water flow and can give you an amazing waterfall to 5 feet.

Besides, the waterfall pump comes equipped with large, durable pre-filters, integrated flow controls, replaceable impeller, versatile base plates, and small diameter power plugs, all aiming to keep your pond clean and healthy. Plus, it is simple to clean and requires low maintenance, in addition to a one-year warranty.

Notably, there is an integrated flow adjustment that allows you to modify the water pressure to achieve the perfect flow for your water feature.

Pros

  • High-grade design and material
  • Energy-saving
  • Adjustable water pressure
  • Quiet operation
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • Not ideal for medium or large ponds

3. AQUANIQUE 2300 GPH Pump

AQUANIQUE 871980007583 2300 GPH Pump
AQUANIQUE 871980007583 2300 GPH Pump

The Aquanique Waterfall Pump has a decent rate of 1,250 GPH, proper for creating waterfalls up to ten feet tall.

This waterfall pump provides a mesh bag that helps block large external debris. So you can clean up the pump with ease. It has a spiral shape, enabled for strong water flow. It also includes options for customization with a hole for one or 1.5-inch tubing to connect to your filter.

Remarkably, the pump’s inner design lets large debris flow out of the discharge and smaller particles to flow out of the pump’s rear. This makes sure that the shafts and bearings are being constantly cleaned.

The manufacture suggests that users should use the biggest tubing size in the product specifiations for decreased friction and optimal flow.

Pros

  • Perfect for waterfalls
  • Offer a mesh barrier to prevent grime buildup

Cons

  • Not very quiet

4. Alpine Cyclone 8000 GPH Waterfall Pump

Alpine Cyclone 8000GPH Waterfall & Pond Pump 33ft Power Cord PAL8000
Alpine Cyclone 8000GPH Waterfall & Pond Pump 33ft Power Cord PAL8000

The Alpine Cyclone waterfall pump is quite a pricey unit that is made of high-quality plastic with water-proof ceramic bearings and a removable rotor assembly, used horizontally or vertically.

Exceptionally, it sports a durably high-performance asynchronous motor that can run out of or in the water. If you’re using the pump outside the pond, ensure that it is placed below the water level.

This waterfall pump measures 10 x 6 x 7 inches, with a weight of 14 pounds. It comes with a uniquely designed vortex impeller that is proper for low power consumption and maximum water output. Besides, it consists of a pre-filter anti-clog cage screen that requires minimal maintenance and handling of solids up to about 0.25 inches.

Moreover, this model offers a maximum flow rate of 8000 GPH and a maximum head pressure of 26′. It is created for heavy-duty filter systems or waterfalls and has robust power to transfer huge amounts of water constantly.

You must run this waterfall pump when water is running through it and must not run the pump dry. In addition, the pump must be primed before it is turned on by adding water to the tubing outside and inside the pump. That helps generate the accurate suction effect for drawing water from its source.

Pros

  • Able to move 3,500 gallons of water in a pond of 17 inches in length and width
  • Able to clear out algae
  • 2,000 gallon pond can be pumped out in 15 minutes.

Cons

  • The cover on the intake end does not clip on tightly and tends to fall off.
  • The protective impeller housing strainer is poorly built.

5. Alpine PAL3100 Cyclone Pond Pump

 Alpine Corporation Alpine PAL3100 Cyclone Pond Pump-3100 Fountains, Waterfalls, and Water Circulation Pump
Alpine Corporation Alpine PAL3100 Cyclone Pond Pump-3100 Fountains, Waterfalls, and Water Circulation Pump

Being cost-efficient and energy-saving, this robust Cyclone Pond Pump from Alpine Corporation is an ideal pick for medium-sized ponds. This submersible pump can handle up to 3,100 gallons of water per hour, build magnificent waterfalls, and offer good aeration.

The Alpine Corporation pump has a sophisticatedly made design as the external cover is constructed from hard plastic. The ceramic Vortex impeller is oil-free and managed by a magnetic drive motor that is completely enclosed in a disparate place. That boosts its water-resistance ability and prevents any possible leaks.

What’s more, there is a removable pre-filter and the Vortex motor can be disassembled without using tools for simple cleaning and maintenance.

Furthermore, this waterfall pump can be submerged under the water or positioned anywhere around the pond, both horizontally and vertically. Plus, the manufacture gives you five different pumps that vary in GPH per hour, including 2,100, 3,100, 4,000, 5,200, and 6,550.

Pros

  • Well performance
  • Cost-effective and energy-saving
  • A three-year warranty
  • Excellent design: submersible and external
  • Build a strong waterfall

Cons

  • Pump’s housing can be loose
  • Requirements for securing the pump
  • Little bulky

6. Little Giant 566409

Little Giant 566409 WGP-65-PW Dual Discharge Direct Drive Submersible Waterfall and Pond Pump
Little Giant 566409 WGP-65-PW Dual Discharge Direct Drive Submersible Waterfall and Pond Pump

If you want two water features for your pond, then you should go for the Little Giant Waterfall Pump. Its dual discharge design will enable you to push water through two different water features with a single pump.

This Dual Discharge Waterfall Pump model offers an impressive punch, using a 1,900 GPH capacity. It can achieve a maximum water height of about 20 feet.

It is packed with a 16-foot cord that you can utilize to place the pump wherever you want. You also can place it either horizontally or vertically.

Pros

  • Powerful performance
  • Able to power two water features simultaneously
  • Simple to install
  • A three-year warranty

Cons

  • Quite hard to clean when it’s clogged
  • The inlet likely gets clogged.

7. Laguna Power Jet 600 Waterfall Pump Kit

Laguna Power Jet 600 Waterfall Pump Kit
Laguna Power Jet 600 Waterfall Pump Kit

This is an incredible waterfall pump for small-medium-sized water features. The Laguna Powerjet pump is made for efficiency, with the lower units costing less to run every month than a normal household light bulb.

The pump includes a flexible fountain adapter with two fountain head options, 3-Tier and Waterbell Style. Besides, the model provides a flow valve switch, which enables handy water control to your fountainhead and waterfall.

The waterfall pump has been advanced with built-in Start Pump Technology (SPT), which ensures maximum performance and efficiency during operation. The system takes control over the motor, water flow, and impeller to make sure only the necessary power is used.

When it comes to water lift heights, the pump creates strong flows at heights varying from 5’10” to 14’8”. Running below these heights, you can keep a high GPH rating to use the pump for waterfalls and fountains between 5 and 14 feet of water height.

Moreover, the Laguna waterfall pump comes in a strong caged design, preventing any blockage effectively.

Pros

  • Great lift heights
  • Flexible water features
  • 3-year warranty
  • Super energy-effective

Cons

  • The pump can easily get clogged.
  • Regular maintenance is recommended for the best operation.

8. TetraPond Feature Pump 

TetraPond Water Garden Pump, Powers Waterfalls/Filters/Fountain Heads, 50 to 500 Gallons
TetraPond Water Garden Pump, Powers Waterfalls/Filters/Fountain Heads, 50 to 500 Gallons

This is a compact and significantly energy-saving waterfall pump option, proper for small garden ponds. The TetraPond pumps require minimal power, with the lowest being 17w, but still create a strong water head height for different features.

The smallest version, the 325 pump, offers 325 GPH at one foot of height. It has a maximum head height rating of 6’5”, but a recommended height would be close to 5 to keep a steady flow rate. At about 5′ of head height, the pump can keep an average flow of 150 GPH.

The largest model, the 1900 pump, offers 1500 GPH at one foot of height. It will be suitable for ponds from 1000 to 1500 gallons. It comes with a maximum head height of 16’5”, and can generate strong flows of 1150 GPH at 7′ of head height.

Pros

  • Energy-saving
  • Great head heights for small pumps
  • Easy to setup
  • 3-year warranty

Cons

  • Not ideal for larger features

9. Aqua Pulse 550 Submersible Pump for Ponds 

Aqua Pulse 550, Submersible Pump for Ponds, Water Gardens, Pondless Waterfalls and Skimmers
Aqua Pulse 550, Submersible Pump for Ponds, Water Gardens, Pondless Waterfalls and Skimmers

The Aqua Pulse 550 Submersible Pump model is tailored for pumping water and aerating small fish ponds and water gardens. Thanks to its inventive hybrid drive technology, the unit delivers superior performance, which mixes the power of a direct-drive pump with the energy effectiveness and safety of a magnetic drive pump.

If you have a Koi pond, you would love its oil-free motor as it is very plant and fish-friendly. Besides, the pump can transfer huge amounts of water and shift large pieces of debris up to 0.25 inch, allowing you to modify the flow and pressure of the water at a different speed controller. The end result is a lively pond and a breathtaking waterfall at a low operating cost.

In addition, this waterfall pump comes with an overload switch to prevent it from overheating. Plus, there is an extra-long 30-foot power cord that enables you flexibly position the pump, either horizontally or vertically.

Pros

  • Good value for money
  • Superb hybrid drive technology
  • Robust pumping action
  • Variable speed controller
  • Quiet operation

Cons

  • Not suitable for medium or large-sized ponds
  • Require a filter bag to prevent fish from getting stuck into the pump

10. KEDSUM 880 GPH Submersible Pump

KEDSUM 880GPH Submersible Pump(3500L/H, 100W)
KEDSUM 880GPH Submersible Pump(3500L/H, 100W)

Thanks to its versatility, the KEDSUM model can be considered an incredible waterfall pump, which suits a small pond, water garden, medium-sized tank, or hydroponic gardening system.

This sturdy and cost-saving pump contains a strong ABS shell and creates 100 watts. Its compact size helps you hide the pump amongst foliage and it will not draw away from the overlook of your tank.

The KEDSUM unit is very easy to use. You just need to put the pump into the water, turn the power on, and utilize the water inlet switch to modify the water flow to fit your water feature. If there is much debris in the pond, the pump’s percolator will protect the rotors from getting blocked by garbage and guarantee a seamless working performance.

Whether you place this pump indoors or outdoors, it runs quietly and fits wherever you position it. This is because it includes powerful suction cup-mounted feet and non-slip gaskets.

If you want to use the pump in your outdoor Koi pond, you will have to put it near a power inlet because the length of the power cord measures 1.5 meters only.

Pros

  • Great value for money
  • Multifunctional
  • Super quiet operation
  • Can be used in freshwater and saltwater environments
  • Simple to control the water flow

Cons

  • Not ideal for small tanks and large ponds

Quick Comparison of the best Waterfall Pumps

#Product NameImagePriceAction
1TotalPond 1200 GPH Waterfall PumpTotalPond 1200 GPH Waterfall Pump

$$

Buy on Amazon!
2Atlantic Water Garden FP200Atlantic Water Gardens FP200 Adjustable Flow Fountain and Water Feature Pump, 200GPH

$

Buy on Amazon!
3AQUANIQUE Waterfall PumpAQUANIQUE 1250 GPH Waterfall Pump

$$

Buy on Amazon!
4Alpine Cyclone 8000 GPH Waterfall PumpAlpine Cyclone 8000GPH Waterfall & Pond Pump 33ft Power Cord PAL8000

$$$

Buy on Amazon!
5Alpine PAL3100 Cyclone Pond PumpAlpine Corporation Alpine PAL3100 Cyclone Pond Pump-3100 Fountains, Waterfalls, and Water Circulation Pump

$$

Buy on Amazon!
6Little Giant 566409Little Giant 566409 WGP-65-PW Dual Discharge Direct Drive Submersible Waterfall and Pond Pump

$$

Buy on Amazon!
7Laguna Power Jet 600 Waterfall Pump KitLaguna Power Jet 600 Waterfall Pump Kit

$$$

Buy on Amazon!
8TetraPond Feature Pump TetraPond Water Garden Pump, Powers Waterfalls/Filters/Fountain Heads, 50 to 500 Gallons

$

Buy on Amazon!
9Aqua Pulse 550 Submersible Pump for Ponds Aqua Pulse 550, Submersible Pump for Ponds, Water Gardens, Pondless Waterfalls and Skimmers

$$

Buy on Amazon!
10KEDSUM 880 GPH Submersible Pump KEDSUM 880GPH Submersible Pump(3500L/H, 100W)

$

Buy on Amazon!

Building a pond in your yard is an interesting way to bring visual dynamics to your garden. And what if there is a cascading waterfall in the center of the pond? That’s really impeccable. You will feel very satisfied and relieved when watching your spectacular waterfall after a long hard-working day. 

So let’s pick one of the 10 waterfall pump options listed above. Make sure you consider the pros and cons carefully before making the last decision. 

 

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