AquaForte offers several families of pond filtration systems: sieves, drum filters, bead filters, chamber filters, and equipped sets. These systems serve different functions. A mechanical pre-filter and a filter that also performs a biological function are not interchangeable, even though both contribute to water improvement.
To understand the range, the simplest approach is to follow the path of the water and the waste. Where are the particles captured? How are they removed? Which media perform the biological work? These questions help build a coherent system.
The main families at a glance
| Family | Main function | Point to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Sieve | Mechanically separate particles captured by a screen | Screen cleaning and complementary biological stage |
| Drum | Mechanical pre-filtration with automated rinsing | Rinse water, drainage, controls, and suitable biology |
| Beads | Mechanical filtration and biological medium in a pressure vessel | Pre-filtration, suitable pump, and washing procedure |
| Chambers | Water flow through several filter media | Access, drainage, compatible flow rate, and water return |
| Equipped set | Combination of several elements | Check exactly what is included and what remains to be installed |
A family name alone does not indicate a pond's capacity. Characteristics vary according to specific references, generations, and fish population. Always check the model code before comparing two data sheets.
CompactSieve II: removing particles before the rest of the circuit
The CompactSieve II is a sieve designed for a pump-fed installation. The data sheet indicates a 300-micron screen and a maximum flow rate of approximately 15 m³/h. 300 microns corresponds to 0.3 mm: this is particle separation, not the elimination of all dissolved compounds.
This model must be placed above the pond's water level. The inlet is designed for 25, 32, or 40 mm hose connectors; the outlet and overflow are stated as 75 mm. This information influences the available height and connection to subsequent stages.
It can protect a biological stage by intercepting waste upstream. Maintenance remains necessary: separated materials must leave the system. A clogged screen does not become more efficient simply because it contains more dirt.
AFT-1: automating part of the pre-filtration
The AquaForte AFT-1 drum filter uses 60-micron sieve elements in the version presented. Clogging alters water flow, and the system triggers a rinse cycle. Waste is diverted to the designated drain.
Its data sheet mentions possible use in pump-fed or gravity-fed setups, with settings and installation corresponding to the configuration. It also distinguishes between a manufacturer's maximum flow rate of 25 m³/h and a recommended flow rate of 15 m³/h. Use the value suitable for your project and operating conditions, rather than basing the entire installation on the maximum.
The drum remains a pre-filter. A biological chamber or another stage designed for this function must complete the system. Also, check the items delivered: the presence of a controller and a cover does not mean all rinsing or UV-C options are included.
Before purchasing, plan for access to nozzles, the level sensor, and replaceable parts. Automation facilitates the removal of certain waste; it does not make the device autonomous and maintenance-free.
EconoBead: pressure filtration
EconoBead filters use floating beads in a closed tank. Water flows through this assembly under pump pressure. The beads participate in mechanical capture and serve as a medium for a biological community.
The EconoBead EB50 features a multiport valve, an accessible cover, and a blower device for cleaning. The manufacturer specifies a maximum operating pressure of 1.2 bar: this is a limit of the device, not a pressure to aim for systematically.
The manual provides for the pre-filtration of coarse waste. This protects the internal passages from obstruction. The pump should then be chosen by taking into account the resistance of the filter, pipes, valves, and return to the pond. The flow rate printed on a pump's packaging does not automatically represent the flow rate achieved in this specific circuit.
Follow the washing sequence in the exact manual. Valve positions and phases using the pump or blower must not be improvised. Before opening a tank or working on a pressurized device, apply the manufacturer's shut-down and depressurization instructions.
Chamber filters: understanding the stated volumes
According to its data sheet, the AquaForte 12,000 chamber filter with 18W UV combines foams, biological media, and UV-C clarification. Its stated capacity differs depending on the presence of fish: 12 m³ without fish and 5 m³ with fish for this reference.
This "with fish" category is not enough to guarantee a heavily populated pond with large koi. Their size, feeding habits, and maintenance conditions must be examined. Also, do not transpose the characteristics of another AquaForte device with a similar number in its name.
Access to compartments is an important selection criterion. You must be able to remove the intended media for maintenance and clear waste without flushing all the dirt back into the pond. Also, check the diameter and slope of the return, according to the authorized installation.
Pump-fed vs. gravity-fed: two installation types to distinguish
Choosing the circuit comes before buying the components. A device designed to be placed above the water and pump-fed does not directly replace an element designed to work at a specific level in a gravity-fed setup.
Trace the path from the suction points to the return. Include levels, lengths, diameters, access points, and drains. A seemingly small height difference can alter the operation of a gravity-fed system; a bottleneck in a pump-fed circuit can significantly reduce the flow rate.
Plan for behavior in the event of a shutdown, clogging, or overflow. The availability of a drain and access to rinse water can be just as important as the footprint of the filter itself.
Information to compare in a quote
- The exact reference for each device and the accessories included.
- Pond volume, current population, and projected growth.
- The flow rate expected in the actual circuit and the pressure losses considered.
- Biological capacity and maturation conditions.
- Rinsing requirements, drainage, and access to maintenance parts.
- Total power consumption and operations remaining the responsibility of the owner.
A set that is cheaper to purchase may require more manipulation or additional work. Conversely, expensive automation is not always necessary for a lightly loaded pond that is easy to maintain. Compare the service provided in your specific situation.
Supporting startup and maintenance
After installation, check connections, levels, and circulation before increasing the pond's load. Aquipond NitriBoost can support the seeding of the filtration system according to its manual. It does not replace maturation or correct sizing.
Check the water with appropriate tests, especially ammonium and nitrites. The JBL CombiSet Pond provides a basis for several pond parameters; complete the measurements as needed. Clear water does not prove that all parameters are satisfactory.
If deposits remain in areas with low circulation, localized maintenance with a PondoVac can be useful. Aquipond Bactovase addresses organic sludge according to its indications. These supplements are part of general maintenance, without compensating for a poorly designed circuit.
To assemble your AquaForte system, have Aquiflor design the installation with a plan and site constraints in mind. The selection will then focus on a complete, accessible system with known limits.
Sources and manuals
- AquaForte — CompactSieve 300 microns.
- AquaForte — drum filters, features and assembly.
- AquaForte — EconoBead EB50 and manual access.
- Aquishop data sheets for related references, including the 12,000 chamber filter with 18W UV.
