 
Choosing a Pump for the Koi Fish Pond
There are many varieties and sizes of pumps for your Koi fish pond. The important thing to remember when purchasing a pump is not only the size of your Koi pond, but also the number of fish and type of filter you will be using. Most Koi ponds will need a turnover rate of at least one to two times its size. For example, if your Koi pond is 500 gallons, you will need a pump that will flow water through the filter between 500 and 1000 gallons per hour.
When you shop for a pump, look at the performance chart that comes with the product. Most pumps have a rating in gallons per hour and these are rated at various heights above the water's surface. This height is referred to as the "head" or "lift". The higher your water feature is, the lower your pump output will be, as the pump needs to work harder to push the water to the top. For example, a pump that is rated at 300gph at a 1-foot level may only deliver 120 gallons at a 4-foot level. Also, you will need to subtract a level of one foot for each 10 feet of horizontal run.
Always buy a pump slightly more powerful than you think you'll need. Keep in mind that when adding Koi to your pond you will also need a separate biological or mechanical filter that will further restrict the flow and necessitate a larger pump. If necessary, you can always restrict the flow. Some pumps have valves that will let you adjust the flow. If your pump doesn't, you can install a separate valve on the outlet side, or discharge of the pump. Be careful not to restrict more than 25% of the flow on the outlet side or you'll burn up the motor. Check with your dealer before purchasing a pump to make sure it can be exchanged for a larger size if it turns out to be too small to operate your water feature to your satisfaction.
When selecting a pump, buy the best you can afford. Even if you are only buying a small one, it is better to purchase a good quality pump. The least expensive, and least durable pumps have a relatively short life span, and tend to quit when you least expect them to. As high oxygen levels are very important for Koi, a dead pump may create a hazardous condition for your Koi pond.
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