Customer Reviews

Pondmaster PMK1250 Pond Filter with 250gph Pump and Bonus Fountain Head

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

We have 2 of these filter/pumps - one rated at 500 gph and one rated at 250 gph. We use the smaller one for the waterfall in our pond and the larger pump is used as an aerator, water cleaner, etc. They come with 2 sections of tubing for extra height should it be needed and 2 fountain heads. We run the larger pump without a head on it for maximum flow.

One minor problem is that if you don't weight the thing down, it will eventually float. That problem is solved (as per the instructions) by taking the filter section apart and putting in some small stones. We used some flat stones in each of the 4 corners of the filter box and have not had a problem.

The filter box is easy to unhook from the pump and the filter media are easy to clean out and are reusable. We just hose the filters off. You can leave the pump in the water while you're working on the filter box. When you unhook the filter box from the pump, be sure to unplug the pump. That way there's no problem with fish getting sucked into the intake. We've never even had a close call, but if you have small fish and they get too close to the intake, they might get sucked in.

We run these filter/pumps 24/7 and plan to run the larger one all winter.

UPDATE: June 18, 2009 - see my review on a smaller version of this pump Pondmaster 02215 500 GPH Pond Pump. We are buying another set of filter media as the current sets are finally wearing out. We run both pumps 24/7/365 with no problems.

This system has been a perfect fit for my small backyard pond. The installation process could not have been easier. Once in place, the pump and filter have kept the water moving and clear. Cleaning the filter is a simple, easy process as well with necessary parts in an accessible and functional location.

Had a ~200 gallon pond setup without filtration and exposed to sunlight a little over 6 hours that was growing algae like crazy. Suspended algae particles clouded view of inhabitants of the pond. Despite frequent water changes, algae continued to plague the pond.

Initial desire was to buy the 190GPH model, but after looking at the 250GPH model, the 250GPH model appeared to be a better purchase. The design is modular so it is possible to add additional filter box in line with the basic setup. Also, it is better to have a stronger pump which can also later help to pull water for ornamental fountains.

Was afraid filter would be insufficient to address algae problem and feared UV filter might also be needed. However, after running filter for ~1 week, algae problem was under control and eventually eradicated.

Pond was clouding slightly. This was easy to install and run. Cleaned filter each day first few days, amazing how much gets filtered out! Pond is now so clear. Empty filter each weekend. GREAT buy!

This is a good filter the only problem is the ad said it had a 18 foot cord when it's more like 10 feet.

I ordered this pond filter because of the pump cord length, which claims to be 18'. It is NOT 18', it is only 8'. Now I must use an extension cord and it will cause an unprotected connection outdoors.

Also, the pipe that connects from the filter box to the pump slides on so easily that it does not have a water tight fit and any bump will dislodge the connection. I can teflon tape the connection and it very well may seal better, but I don't feel I should have to do these things for a brand new setup. Also, the filter box part is difficult to keep submerged. I tried one rock and needed a second to keep it down.

The price is good and I am very familiar with the Mag-Drive pumps, which are excellent pumps.

This is a reliable solution for those small ponds that get a lot of algae. Fountain head is very nice, the only issue is to keep the water to shoot out straight, hence 4 stars.

I purchased this unit based on my previous experience with the PMK190 which has a fountain head that produces a very satisfying "umbrella" fountain effect. I first used the PMK250 with the "bonus" fountain head that comes with the pump. This produces an array fine streams that radiate outward from the head. The volume of water emitted from the head seemed rather puny compared to the PMK190 which has a smaller pump. The head is adjustable but the various settings did not improve matters. The solution was to make my own fountain head. The outlet on the pump has a 1/2 inch pipe thread. I bought a length of threaded pipe at Home Depot and several threaded end caps. I screwed the pipe onto the pump outlet. I then drilled a pattern of holes in the caps. After several trials I obtained a very satisfying result with a cap with 15 7/64 diameter holes in two concentric rings and one central hole. Except for the central hole, drill the holes at a slight angle so that the spray radiates outward. (It is easier to drill the angled holes if you purchase the end caps that have a rounded top.) This head yields a very satisfying volume of water with a rise of about 10 - 12 inches and a spread of several feet - and it produces a very impressive sound of falling water.

Although I am quite happy with this system, I give it only 4 stars because of its bad "bonus" fountain head which is definitely NOT a bonus but rather a handicap.

for the most part it works well. filter has a tendency to float so i put a piece of cement block on top of it. also the pump is little bit louder then i would like.

I have 2 ponds and live in a warm climate. This is the third filter that I have bought. It is has a great water flow and is easy to clean. I have had two of the three filters for five years and with regular cleaning, they do their job in the pond. I recommend this filter for people with turtles as they create more waste than fish.