What pump for garden pond?

[Sensai]

I am considering purchasing this pond https://www.bunnings.com.au/aquapro-65l-mini-rock-look-pond_p2920248

It is only 65 Litres.

No fish to be added.

This is being used for my cats - like a big water dish, one of my cats loves playing with and in water as well.

I was looking at pumps and they are over $200 which is ridiculous for a tiny pond and definitely not affordable for me.

Is there no cheap pump/filter and solar powered for such a tiny pond ?

And what if I want to extend and add the cascade ?

https://www.bunnings.com.au/aquapro-12l-medium-rock-look-twin-cascade_p2920253

[JacobZ]

Hi @Sensai,

Unfortunately, this Aquapro AP300SP Solar Pump And Panel Kit is the cheapest solar-powered pump that we stock.

If you had a suitable weatherproof power outlet nearby, you could use this Aquapro AP200LV Low Voltage Tabletop Feature Pump. It has a 1.8m cable, so as long as the pump is close enough to the outlet, this would be an option.

Unfortunately, those are about the two best options available in your situation without speaking to an electrician with solar experience.

Allow me to tag @AlanM52, who I know has worked on similar water features such as his Bamboo Shishi-odoshi (Deer chaser) and Water barrel with bamboo spout projects. He might be able to offer some advice.

Jacob

[AlanM52]

Hello @Sensai,

Bailey & Zia are saying hello to your kitties.

I am sure we can put something together to achieve your outcomes for a reasonable $$$ outlay but I need to ask some questions.

Will the kitty pond be located out in the yard somewhere exposed to the elements or maybe in a covered area like a patio or gazebo.

Let's do a comparison with my garden pond suitable for anyone on a budget - even pensioners.

(Intending to post that as a project)

The pond uses a 'standard' clamshell sandpit which holds about 100L of water, features a waterfall and uses the AQUAPRO AP1050 240V Pond Pump with flowrate of 1400L/H. Your pond with the twin cascade will hold about 75-80L of water (much the same) and we need a 12V pump with about the same flow rate.

Pond Pump:

Search eBay for a 12V pump with around 1100L/H flow rate.

Like this one.

Solar Panel Kit:

Here is the solar panel kit I purchased for my wi-fi chicken feeder.

  

The system powers a 12V wi-fi water valve (servo actuator) that opens and closes the feeder lid to stop freeloaders (wild birds) nicking chook feed.

Cheers