Koi Pond Bottom Drains Explained

A bottom drain is an essential component of proper Koi pond design and filtration. Installing a bottom drain when first constructing a Koi pond is highly recommended. If a pond does not already have one, a retrofit bottom drain can be added and is advised by Elite Koi.

The bottom drain is usually situated in the deepest part of the pond and is connected to the filtration system intake. Having a bottom drain serves several important purposes:

• Removes debris and waste - The bottom drain sucks up solid waste like fish poop, uneaten food, and organic debris that sinks to the bottom of the pond. This keeps the pond floor clean and prevents buildup.
• Improves water circulation - Water flow across the bottom of the pond is increased which prevents dead spots. The bottom drain moves water from the bottom to the filter which improves overall water circulation.
• Aids filtration - Bottom drain water flow helps filter intake catch more waste particles and prevents clogging. Bottom sediment is removed before it converts to toxins like ammonia and nitrites.
• Reduces pump load - Pumps don't have to work as hard if some of the water flow is handled by gravity via the bottom drain. This improves energy efficiency.
• Prevents fish stress - Fish aren't fighting strong intake suction at the surface which can stress them. The bottom drain gently pulls water down below.
• Retrofitting a bottom drain involves digging out the pond floor, installing drain pipe and a drain cover, and hooking to the filter system. This is disruptive but worth the long-term benefits for Koi health and pond cleanliness.

In summary, installing a bottom drain is one of the best investments for proper Koi pond function. Elite Koi always recommends adding one if not already present.

Michael explains the different bottom drains for sale 

• Products used in the video:
• Economy Bottom Drains 
• Aerated Dome For Bottom Drain - 1.5" / 50mm Stem 
• Retro-fit Bottom Drain 
• Spindrifter 4” pressure bottom drain 

The Spindrifter aerated bottom drain is known worldwide for its quality and design. This Spindrifter aerated bottom drain completely replaces the “Standard Bottom Drain.” The most noticeable feature of the Spindrifter bottom drain is the extra 1 inch Pressure pipe connection in the sump of the drain. This allows the air supply hose to enter the sump independent of the water outlet pipe, thus eliminating the possibility of restriction to the water flow and somewhere else for blanket weed to attach. It also keeps the essential air lines and feeds hidden from view.