New pond construction

Question
QUESTION: Hello,
I am in the planning stages of my pond and would like some advice from someone NOT trying to sell me something.  I planning for the pond to be 5 1/2 feet square and 3 feet deep.  I am going to have fish and plants eventually and I would like an experts opinion on filters, pumps and uv sterilizers.  I hope this question is not too open ended but any answers/advice would be welcome.

thanks,
Russell

ANSWER: Hi Russel!

In order to help you better, I need you to answer me a few questions:-
Are you going to have a waterfall?
If so, how high is it going to be?
Would you be willing to have a pump running 24hrs a day?

Let me know.

Carlo

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Carlo,
Yes, I am thinking of a waterfall-type feature.  It will be about 6 feet away and about 4 to 5 feet tall.  I would also like a small fountain in the pond that I will run occasionally for the sound.  About the 24 hour a day thing...is it better to do so?  If I do is there any way to keep the electrical costs down or is it not really all that expensive?

Answer
Hi Russell

For a pond that is about 8'x11' to avoid too much splashing and water evaporation I would recommend you using a 2500 gallon per hour pump.
If you are going to have fish you will need a filter capable of handling a 2500 gallon per hour flow.
The height of the fall then, should be about the same as the filter.
Check with your local power company to find out about the cost of running your pump 24 hours a day.
The longer the pump is left on, the more fish you could have in your pond.

Keep in touch!

Carlo