How Much Does It Cost To Run A Pond Pump Per Month?

Pond pumps vary in size and wattage, depending on what you use the pump for. If used correctly, it helps prevent stagnation and cut down on mosquitos. Several different factors play into monthly costs, including the type, size, and how frequently the pump is used.

It sounds overwhelming, we know, and we’re here to help. A beautiful pond isn’t unattainable, even if the water looks a bit murky now. Keep reading, and everything will go swimmingly (that one was a stretch).

Do Pond Pumps Use A Lot Of Electricity?

Backyard Pond Garden

In short, no, pond pumps don’t use a lot of electricity. However, this will depend on the size and type of pond pump you would like to use. Let’s break it down.

Size

The first thing to consider is the size and shape of your pond, as it will determine the type of pump and how much electricity it will need to run. Here are a few equations to determine the size of your pond. Now, if you hear the word math and run the other way, pond calculators are easy to find with a Google search.

  • Square and Rectangular- Measure the length and width of the pond with a tape measure. To measure the depth, use a stick (or anything similar). Using the stick, place it into the water until it hits the bottom. Remove the stick, and measure the length of the stick up to the waterline. Multiply the length by the width, then the depth. To convert this number into gallons, multiply by 7.5.
  • Circular- Measure the diameter (one side to the other) and divide by 2 to determine the radius. Multiply the radius by itself and then by 3.14. Now, multiply this by the depth (feel free to use that stick). To convert to gallons, multiply by 7.5.

Take a moment to appreciate the math you did; we’re impressed. Now that we know the size, let’s move on to which pump is best for your pond.

Type Of Pump

Knifel Submersible Pump 880GPH Ultra Quiet with Dry Burning Protection 10.2ft High Lift for Fountains, Hydroponics, Ponds, Aquariums & More……………

Pond pumps are broken up into several categories, each with its own benefits. The pump should be able to work through around half of the pond volume per hour.

  • Submersible- They are designed to be submerged (hence the name). Quiet and easy to install, these pumps work through anywhere from 50 to 5,000 gallons of water per hour. For small ponds, submersible pumps tend to be most efficient. Keep in mind, some of these pumps use oil. If your end goal is a fish pond, make sure your submersible pump does not use oil, as it can be harmful to the fish.
  • External- External pumps require a dry location near the pond. The installation process tends to be a bit more complex than submersible pumps, and these pumps often make some noise as they run. These pumps are best for larger ponds (1,000 gallons or more). They are long-lasting, reliable, and relatively low maintenance.
  • Magnetic Drive- Magnetic Drive pumps are efficient and cost-effective. It is completely sealed, making it ideal for fish ponds. If you’re dreaming of fountains, this is not the pump for you, as the magnetic drive is unable to create that cascade effect.
  • Direct Drive- If aesthetics are the name of the game, this pump is for you. Direct drive pumps work best for fountains and waterfalls, adding the aesthetic feature to your pond. Some of these models use oil, but if fish are prominent in your pond, choose one of the oil-free models.

Electricity And Cost

Now that you’re pretty much the CEO of pond pumps, let’s take a look at electricity and cost. Generally speaking, 1 kilowatt (kWh) is about 12 cents. To get an exact number of the cost per kWh, check a power bill, and divide the total bill by the power consumption. The wattage of the pump can be found in the instructions or on the side of the box. If you do not see the watts, multiply the amps by the volts.

  • Calculating the Cost- Who knew so much math went into a pond pump? There are cost calculators to determine how much you spend per day, month, and year. Now, if math is your forte, use the equation below to calculate the cost.
  • Equation- Watts multiplied by hours used per day. Take that number and divide by 1,000, then multiply by .30
  • Example- 100 watts x 24hours per day = 2,400
  • 2,400/1,000 = 2.4.
  • 4 x .30 = 72 cents per day

Should I Run My Pond Pump All the Time?

Koi Pond

This depends on the type of pond you have. For example, if you have a Koi pond, then yes, you should run the pond for 24 hours per day. The pump is necessary to keep the quality of the pond clean, oxygenated, and toxin-free, making it safe for fish to exist in. On the other hand, if your pond does not contain wildlife, then in most cases, you do not need to run your pond pump continuously.

Should I Turn Off My Pond Pump At Night?

Yes and no. If your pond has fish, do not turn the pump off at night, as it is necessary for a healthy environment. Ponds without fish can be turned off at night. That being said, a stagnant pond is excellent for breeding mosquitoes. Not to draw conclusions, but we’re guessing mosquitos don’t exactly fit the aesthetic of your dream pond.