Create a Pond Building Plan in 4 Simple Steps

Starting the planning process to install a pond can seem overwhelming, but with some simple prep work this will be a much easier project to take on. We will talk you through electrical needs, digging, necessary equipment, and when to ask for help. 

Electrical

When planning a pond build, people typically have an ideal location in mind. Often this is not the most convenient location in terms of access to electricity. That prominent spot centrally located in your yard may be several feet away from your pond. It is best to contact a local electrician to come out to install a grounded electrical source closer to your desired location. Let them know what area you will be digging out for your pond, so they do not lay any electrical down in that location. Using a rope as an outline or spray painting the outline of where the pond will be will help them to work around this area. 

Digging

For most people, digging the hole could be the largest hurdle in making their ideal pond a reality. For this step of the process, it is best to pick out a day or two that you plan to complete this task. Plan to take a break at some point and get your favorite snack to treat yourself to mid-way through the project, or plan to do something fun after. Little rewards will help the project not seem so arduous. Better yet, enlist some friends or family to lend a hand to make the work go faster!

Equipment

Selecting your pond equipment will depend on a couple of things. Ask yourself before you begin if you will have a waterfall and/or fish. If you need help deciding, here is a guide to planning your dream pond. If you will or will not, that will help determine your product selection. If you will have a waterfall, you will need a waterfall pump rated for the height of your waterfall. If not, you will need a pond pump rated for the gallons of water in your pond. If you will have fish, you will need additional filtration and aeration (nozzles, spitters, or spillways). If not, pick filtration to match your pond size. Calculate your total pond volume to determine the size and type of products needed: 

diameter (ft.) x diameter (ft.) x depth (ft.) x 5.9 = pond volume for rectangular ponds
diameter (ft.) x diameter (ft.) x depth (ft.) x 7.5 = pond volume for circular ponds

Asking for Help

Since a pond can be such a big project, it makes sense to ask for help. If you have a family member, friend, or neighbor you can enlist it will be worth it. Help can also be an investment in a tool or equipment rental that makes this project simple. If you don’t have an eye for design, maybe ask someone you trust to help you pick a place for your pond or go shopping with you for pond accessories.

Having a pond add so much life to an outdoor space, but can take a good deal of planning. These steps can help make the process simpler and help you take charge of your pond build!