Lake Pump Intake Clogging: Correct Filter Selection for Debris Type

2 HP pump from lake in 3 ft water. Foot valve in 5-gallon bucket + "Deko" sock filter. Constant clogging, frequent head filter changes, sock cleaning. Nothing works.

The Filter Mismatch Problem

"What works in one lake doesn't necessarily work in another. The secret is to filter out only particles which clog your sprinklers and let the rest pass. The 'sock' filter you have probably is filtering too fine and is always clogging."

Recommended Filters

• PVC well point / slotted screen: 20-25 gauge slot size (opening size).
• "Guzzler" or "Algae Queen": Partially filled with pea gravel; works like a stream bed—stops coarse particles, passes fines. Made by Bigfoot Manufacturing.

Matt offers to locate a distributor if the user provides their state. The key principle: match filter aperture to sprinkler nozzle size, not to water clarity.