Pump and Filter Setup for a Raised Deck Filter and Waterfall

For a 750-gallon pond pumping to a filter 6 feet above on a deck, then returning via waterfall, you need a pump with sufficient head pressure and a DIY filter design that handles the lift.

Pump Selection

• Choose a high-head submersible or external pump rated for at least 8–10 feet of head at your desired flow (e.g., 1,000–1,500 GPH).
• Central heating circulator pumps (as used in some DIY builds) can work but verify flow curves.
• Ensure the pump can handle the vertical lift plus friction loss from tubing and fittings.

DIY Filter Design

A simple upflow biofilter in a stock tank or barrel works well:

1. Inlet at bottom, outlet near top.
2. Media: lava rock, bio-balls, or Matala mats.
3. Include a settling chamber (first 1/3) for solids.
4. Add a drain valve for easy cleaning.

Place the filter on the deck, conceal with lattice or plants. Return water via a waterfall spillway for aeration. Size the pump so the filter turns the pond volume 1–2 times per hour.