Pond Boss Forums GENERAL QUESTIONS Water chemistry Well water to compensate for evaporation

Hey Barry,
I've looked into using my well to help keep my little pond full and this is what info I can pass on...
1) Test your water first to insure there arent any unwanted minerals, but if it's the water you're supplying your house with, chances are it's fine. You need to verify the ph, to determine if you may need to add lime to help stabilize it.
2) Well water is virtually devoid of O2, so you'll need to either install a venturi, have the water enter the pond above the surface so it can be at least minimally oxygenated, or install an aerator system to help mix and aerate the pond.
3) You should have at least a 3/4 hp pump to handle the load. My well is fitted with a 1 hp submersible. When using the well, you need to set your flow to maintain around 40-50 psi on your tank. This will keep the pump running continuously, which is easier on the pump. You dont want it to be constantly kicking on and off, as this will create excessive wear on the pump. Your tank should have a pressure gauge to allow you to set your flow and monitor. This will also prevent you from cutting into your household supply.

I lost about 16 inches last year thru evaporation, and my watershed fills it up rather quickly. But with new vegetation starting to take hold in shallow water, I'll likely look into actually installing a 1.25 pipe from my well to the pond this year, so I can keep them wet.

Welcome....hope this helps