Manual pump recommendations sought

[Amiga]

Burbs, That looks like the size pump I could handle - any guesses about how it would do with the nutrients? It may or may not be able to manage them - I am on the fence - I like the idea of a pump like the one you use, and I like the idea of siphoning.

If I weren't so blessed skittery about cutting a hole in the fiberglass and getting the fittings to work (I am still developing my ability to cut holes and install valves that do not leak - I am getting better at it, but not yet an expert), I would be warming up to the drainage I idea that mac offers.

I also don't have a saw that could cut a nice smallish round hole, though I can probably afford a drill bit. I take that back. Should I ask how much these things cost, mac? Sometimes I get surprised by how much a small item is.

There is a very good plumbing supply store near me, so I know I could get the pieces I need. They have been very helpful with my rainbarrel conversion projects.

 

[Burbs]

When you say nutrients I assume you mean the duck crap in the bottom of the pond, right? Stir it up or pump off of the top and it will be fine. The bottom of my boat was not exactly clean. As long as there are no rocks or gravel that little hand pump works pretty good. I don't remember what model I had......so just don't go out and buy the example I posted......it was just that..an example.

 

[Amiga]

Burbs,

I used to work literally up to my knees in cow manure, so I enjoy finding euphemisms for it.

But I don't mind the basic terms, either.

And I don't think you gave me an iron clad guarantee, you kindly answered my question, and I really appreciate that. I know it's a trial and error process. Thanks for sharing what you've done.

If I get a pump similar to the one you linked to I think I might end up just pumping off most of the water and dipping out the heavier material, or stirring it up before pumping (which, on a grand scale, as you may know, is how dairy farmers empty their "liquid" manure storage).

All,

You guys are great!

Thanks again

 

[slaghunter]

Quote:
If you go to any home improvement store and get a drain for a kitchen sink they work great. I have two ponds with them installed. I use a stopper that you would use for a garbage disposal to plug it. Once you cut the whole in it and get the drain in you can bury 1 1/2" pipe for your drain. I did cut the + (cross) out of the drain to allow bigger - how did you put it nutrients - to flow properly. To be honest with you leaves were getting caught in mine before I cut the cross out. If you are a little leery about cutting a whole in your pond you could practice on a 5 gallon bucket to test your skills first.

Siphoning would work good also. I would suggest getting a large piece of hose - like pool vacuum hose - It would be much quicker and you can actually suck the "nutrients" off the bottom of the pond.