Splitting a Single-Zone Pond Pump System: Pressure Tank Required

Converting a 20-Head Single-Zone Pond System to 3 Zones: Protection Needed

Pond-fed pump, 20 heads, 1 zone. Added controller and pump relay. Want 3 zones. Fear: valve failure → pump damage. Suggestions: flow switch, pressure switch, pressure relief valve.

Major Redesign Required

Splitting a pump-fed system requires a pressure tank and pressure switch at minimum. The pump currently runs open-discharge (20 heads). Reducing to ~7 heads/zone means:

• Excess flow/pressure when only 1 zone runs.
• Pump dead-heads if a valve fails closed.

Components Needed

• Pressure tank (sized for pump)
• Pressure switch (controls pump on/off)
• Pressure relief valve (safety)
• Check valve on pump discharge

This is complex. Hire an irrigation contractor experienced with pump systems. DIY risk: pump destruction, flooding, wasted money.