Buying the right pump for your pond setup is clearly important. However, with so many models available, choosing the best one for your individual needs can be difficult.

The size of the pond, the type of plant, and marine life as well as the addition of any water features will all play a part in the type of pump you use.

To help narrow down the options we have pulled together 5 top-rated pond pumps and dived in to give you the lowdown.

For our findings at a glance just head to the table below. For an in-depth review of each of our selections, plus a comprehensive pond pump buyer’s guide, keep on reading.

Best Pond Pumps on the Market – Top 5

NAME	IMAGE	DETAILS
TOP PICK:Laguna Max-FloWaterfall andFilter Pump		Filter PumpPond Capacity:4000-Gallon,2000gph	CHECK ON AMAZON
Danner 02527 Pondmaster Pump		Includes Prefilter700gph	CHECK ON AMAZON
Little GiantWGP-65-PW1900 GPH Pump		Dual Discharge1/8 HP, 1900gph	CHECK ON AMAZON
Smart Pond1300 GPH PumpUV Technology		Waterfall Pump300gph	CHECK ON AMAZON
Aquascape AquaSurge 2000 GPHPond Pump		Submersible2000gph	CHECK ON AMAZON

Best Pond Pump in 2021 – The Reviews

If you want to run any water feature, you will need a pond pump. These pumps play the primary role of circulating water in the entire system.

Water features pumps are available for different water features including ponds, waterfalls, and watercourses.

The pumps come with different technologies and features that may give shoppers a hard time making a choice. For this reason, we have reviewed the top 5 pond pumps that should top your wish list.

1. TOP PICK: Laguna Max-Flo 2000 Electronic Waterfall Pump with Filter

Our number one top pick is the Laguna Max-Flo 2000 that comes with a filter pump too. The Laguna brings onboard Smart Pump Technology (SPT) for energy efficiency. It also has double suctioning capability for versatility. Here is a review of the Laguna Max-Flo.

The Manufacturer

The MaxFlo 200 is manufactured by Laguna, a Canadian family-owned company. Laguna is a manufacturer of pond solutions.

Their products are built with the latest technologies for efficiency and high-grade materials to guarantee durability. Every product is tested and evaluated by experienced QC professionals to ensure that gardening professionals get the best.

Features

The Laguna Max-Flo measures 10.5 x 11.4 x 8.8 inches and weighs 7.8 lbs. It has been crafted using quality materials thus ensuring reliability and durability.

When it comes to performance, the Laguna Max-Flo boasts of the revolutionary Smart Pump Technology (SPT). This is a self-regulating system that ensures power consumption is tracked.

It also monitors hydraulics as well as impeller direction for optimum power output and energy efficiency.

The Max-Flo is powered by a powerful magnetic-driven motor. This motor can generate high water flow rates of up to 2000GPH at extremely low energy costs. Performance is further enhanced by the two-level suction capability which improves water flow.

With the Max-Flo 2000, you can pump solids. It has a unique pump cage that allows the passage of solid particles measuring up to 8mm. This makes the pump ideal for filtration systems, waterfalls, and even watercourses.

Bottom Line

The Laguna MaxFlo 2000 is a great pump. It can serve a wide range of water gardening purposes including water filtration systems.

Besides pumping water, it can also pump solids making it great for running waterfalls. With a maximum flow rate of 2000GPH and a water filter system, you can’t ask for more!

2. Danner 02527 Pondmaster 700GPH Pump

The Danner Pondmaster is a simple, reliable and efficient pump for running water features. It can operate when submerged or in-line. With a 700GPH flow rate, you can use the Danner Pondmaster in several water features including ponds, waterfalls and so on. Here is a review of the Danner Pondmaster.

The Manufacturer

Danner Manufacturing, Inc manufactures the Danner 02527 Pondmaster. The company specializes in water gardening equipment, aquarium filters, statuary pumps, pool, and spa among many other products. With over 75 years of expertise, you can always trust Danner.

Features

This pond pump is among the smallest and lightweight pond pumps in the market. It measures 4.5 x 4 x 4.2 inches and weighs only 4.1 lbs. It has been crafted with the best materials that are used to make high-end aquatic products. For your pond’s safety, it runs on epoxy instead of oil.

Regarding performance, it has been equipped with a powerful magnetic drive motor for efficiency and durability. The Danner 02527 has no seals to wear, and instead of oil, it is filled with epoxy to prevent leakages. It can generate a flow of 700GPH when at its best.

This pump comes with a pre-filter included. However, there are many cases of clogging at it allows small debris to pass through. It can be used when submerged and also in-line. For wider coverage, it has an 18 feet electric cord.

Bottom Line

Even though this pump has a lower flow rate, it packs great features. The best thing about tit is its versatility. It can be used in waterfalls, hydroponic installation and also for dewatering. If you are on a budget, then this might be the pump for you.

3. Little Giant WGP-65-PW Dual Discharge Pond Pump

The Little Giant WGP-65-PW is another great pond pump that is ideal for waterfalls. Just as the name suggests, it is a ‘little giant.’ This pump features a unique dual-discharge design making it a great purchase for anyone who owns a waterfall, stream or fountainhead. Here is a dissection of the Little Giant WGP-65.

The Manufacturer

This dual discharge pump is manufactured and sold by Little Giant. The company has been in business for over 70 years now. Little Giant is known for its high quality, reliable and affordable products. Their product portfolio includes utility pumps, sump pumps, sewage pumps, package systems, HVACs, and so on.

Features

This pump sports a simple, compact design hence the name ‘Little.’ It measures 9.6 x 8.1 x 6.35 inches and weighs only 10.5lbs. The Little Giant also boasts high-quality materials and an oil-free design for your pond’s safety.

Even though it is ‘Little,’ the WGP-65-PW is a giant in performance. First, it is powered by a 2 Amp, 230Watts motor. The best thing about this pump is the dual-discharge function.

It can operate two water features simultaneously. It comes with two 1-1/4″ MNPT x 1″ barbed elbow adaptors and a 1-1/4″ MNPT discharge caps. This pump has a maximum pumping height of 20-feet and has a flow rate of 1900GPH when at its best.

Like earlier said, the Little Giant is very versatile. You can install it horizontally as well as vertically depending on your needs. Installation is very easy and straightforward courtesy of the detailed manual. All the necessary parts come included in the package.

Bottom Line

If you want versatility, then the Little Giant is exactly what you need. Its principal boost is the dual-discharge feature that is unique.

With the Little Giant WGP-65-PW, you can run two water features simultaneously. If you own a fountainhead, waterfall or stream, then this is your perfect pump.

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4. Smart Pond WP1300UV 1300GPH Waterfall Pump with UV Technology

If you want to kill two birds with one stone, then you need this pump that has an inbuilt water cleaning system. The Smart Pond Pump boasts of Patented UV Pump Technology that keeps your pond water clean always. It is effortless to use and maintain. Here is a review of the Smart Pond 1300GPH Pump with UV Technology.

The Manufacturer

This pump is built and sold by Smart Pond. The Smart Pond brand offers a wide range of water gardening products and several DIY projects for water gardening enthusiasts. Its products are engineered with the latest technologies including Smart Pond’s Patented UV Pump Technology.

Features

Like most pumps, the Smart Pond WP1300UV Waterfall Pump sports a sleek, compact design. The pump measures 7 x 8.3 x 13.1 inches and weighs only 7.2 lbs. It has been built with quality materials for efficiency and most importantly, durability.

One unique feature of this pump is the Complimentary Pumpshield. This is a mesh protective barrier that shields the pump and drawstrings to keep it off from large debris.

The Smart Pond Waterfall Pump comes with a powerful motor that is energy efficient. It can achieve a maximum flow rate of 1300GPH. It is also equipped with a 16-foot cord for wider coverage and ease of movement.

This pump is ideal for waterfalls and has a maximum pumping height of 16.5-ft. Other features include a 1 inch ID (inner diameter) tubing and adjustable flow control.

The best feature of the Smart Pond WP1300UV is the UV Cleaning Technology. Smart Pond integrated the state-of-the-art Cold Cathode Ultra-Violet Tube. The tubing sterilizes the water as it circulates.

For optimal cleaning, the UV chamber has been perfectly tuned to ensure even micro-organisms and bacteria are filtered out. An extra bulb is provided

Bottom Line

The Smart Pond WP1300UV Waterfall Pump can be a great addition for any water gardening enthusiast.

It has an impressive flow rate and is energy efficient. Besides this, it comes with a self-cleaning UV system that ensures your pond water is free from bacteria, algae, and any other dirt.

If you run a waterfall in your garden, then the Smart Pond WP1300UV will be your best purchase.

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5. Aquascape 91017 AquaSurge 2000 Asynchronous Pump

At number 5 in our list of the best pond pumps is the Aquascape 91017 is a revolutionary pump that has been specially made for both ponds and pondless waterfalls.

It has been crafted in a unique design and engineered using the latest technology for best-in-class service. The most notable feature of this pump perhaps is the asynchronous motor technology.

The Manufacturer

The AquaSurge 2000 Asynchronous Pump is manufactured by AquaScape, a renowned brand in pond solutions. The company’s story begins from a young boy’s hobby and later grown into a multi-million dollar company.

Today, Aquascape manufactures a wide range of pond and gardening solutions.- as well as water features.

Features

By design, Aquascape ensured the AquaSurge 2000 is compact and easily portable. The unit measures 12 x 5.5 x 7 inches and weighs only 9.8lbs.

This pump has been crafted from high-grade, rust-resistant materials to guarantee efficiency and durability. Ther unique oil-free design, on the other hand, prevents pond contamination.

When it comes to performance, the AquaSurge 2000 is just the best. It comes with several cutting-edge technologies to ensure optimal performance.

First, it comes with an asynchronous motor pump which is optimized to provide more torque. With extra torque, you get the trouble-free performance and an improved head height of up to 25 feet. There’s a ceramic shaft with a cooling port to prevent the motor from heating.

This pump can deliver impressive flow rates of up to 2,193 gallons per hour and is ideal for both vertical and horizontal orientations. The Aquascape 91017 is highly energy-efficient and is designed for skimmer and waterfall filter systems.

Installing the Aquascape 91017 AquaSurge 2000 Asynchronous Pump is very easy. It comes with several fittings for easy installation.

In the box, you will find the rotational ball that allows for easy discharge adjustment. The base has rubber feet that reduce noise caused by strong vibrations. The unit further comes with a 20-ft cord and 3 Years Warranty.

Bottom Line

The Aquascape 91017 AquaSurge 2000 is a versatile pump that can be used for many purposes. It is powerful and energy-efficient courtesy of the asynchronous motor pump.

With flow rates of up to 2193 GPH, this pump is the right choice for anyone looking for a simple, reliable and durable pump.

Top Rated Pond Pumps – A Buyer’s Guide

What is a pond pump and why you need one?

Your pond is a carefully balanced ecosystem. To ensure that everything works as it should you are going to need a pond pump.

This invaluable item is very important to purchase. The simple reason being, without a pump there will be no water movement. The pond water will be stagnant, and before long you will have algae setting in, as well as nasty mosquitoes setting up camp to begin breeding.

Furthermore, if you plan on having a feature such as a waterfall you will need to buy a pump with enough power to facilitate this.

In other potential scenarios, such as making a koi pond, the pump will be a necessary addition in order to aerate the water. Without it your prize fish will not last very long.

The different type of pond pump available

So we have covered the fact that no matter the type of pond you have, you will need a pond pump to get the best out of it.

Now let’s take a look at the different types of pond pumps available so that we can clarify which is the best for you.

The submersible pond pump

As the name indicates, submersible pond pumps are designed to be placed beneath the waterline.

Not only does this mean that the pump is nicely hidden away, (thus not detracting from the overall aesthetic of your pond), this type of unit also does not require extraneous piping.

Because they are so widely available, the submersible pond pump proves extremely cost-effective. There are some excellent budget options available.

When compared to external pumps they are a lot quieter too. On the negative side, you will need a filter with a submersible pump as they can clog relatively easily.

External pond pumps

External pond pumps are obviously placed outside of the water. You can set these up hidden in a bush, or construct a concealing box at the water’s edge.

The external pump is generally more powerful than the submersible, however, they are often more expensive to buy. The extra power does make them more suitable for large ponds.

You also need to factor in the setup. You will need to lay piping that can take the water from the pond into the pump and then back into the pond again.

The fact they sit above the water also means they can be noisier.

• Related Content: Top 10 tips for a healthier pond

Other types of pond pumps

The following types of pumps can be either submersible or external, but carry out a specific job in line with the requirements of your pond.

Fountain pumps

As we touched upon earlier, if you plan to install a waterfall/fountain you will need a pump that has enough power to raise the water into the air, (for example, many fountain pumps will have flow rates of over 1000ltrs per hour).

The fountain pump is designed to allow water to flow in two directions; to the main fountain and to the waterfall.

However, the split water path does impede the pump’s ability to pass larger solids to the filter. In short, debris can build up quickly.

When buying a fountain pump you need to research the unit’s efficiency when it comes to maintaining a clean flow.

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Dry mounted pumps

Dry mounted pumps are a nifty design that works without being submerged into water. The system utilizes gravity to push the water into the pond rather than the workings of the pump. An end result is a unit that is much easier to maintain.

Filter pumps

Solid handling filter pumps are a popular choice for today’s pond owners; especially considering the fact they are becoming more and more reliable.

This kind of pump will be the workhorse of your pond and should be used alongside a stand-alone filter in order to keep your pond water as clean as possible.

Filter pumps are designed to handle large particles of solid matter and waste so that you do not need to periodically get in there and clean the unit by hand.

With the pump able to continue flowing, your main filter will do the job of trapping the waste and filtering it by whatever means your chosen device goes about that task, (see our round-up on best pond filters for more on that).

Running costs are a factor when deciding to utilize a filter pump, however. Having the pump switched on all the time will impact your utility bills.

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