The Best Solar Pond Pumps for 2023

If your lovely home includes a water feature of any kind, owning a good pump not only makes sure that it works as intended but should help minimize your electricity bill as well. That is why finding the best solar pond pump might be the solution for you, not just for saving energy but also environmentally friendly.

However, you may find it challenging to look for the right solar-powered pump without a clear picture of the things to check when comparing various products on the market.

In this article, we will help you with reviews of the top choices, along with the pros and cons. If you’re ready, let us get started to figure out the solar pond pump to work for your needs.

Top 12 Solar Pond Pump Reviews

1. AISITIN Solar Water Pump

Despite being relatively new in the scene, AISITIN is steadily climbing up the ranks. Offering a wide array of efficient and reasonably-priced products, this brand is gradually becoming a favorite.

The AISITIN solar water pump comes with a solar panel, a water pump, six spray nozzles, wires and mounts. The pump system features a clean black finish with a white solar panel frame.

What I like the most about the AISITIN water pump is its power. The product features a polycrystalline solar panel measuring 6.89 in x 10.83 in and having a power output of 10V/ 5.5W. With this, the solar panel can easily collect and convert sunlight even in low-light conditions. The pump can still function for up to 2.5 hours even without sunlight.

Moreover, it comes with the advantage of having a built-in battery. The battery will automatically start to charge itself once the product is turned on. With this 1500 mAH battery, you will have enough power stored to enable the pump to work even during nighttime.

Another thing I like about AISITIN’s water pump is its safety features. The pump has an auto-off feature once the product’s sensor doesn’t detect water anymore. Moreover, it also has a pump idling protection mechanism wherein the pump will cease to work after 2 seconds it detects something blocking it. With this, the motor is protected from any unwarranted damages.

I also like how the AISITIN solar water pump is designed. With a big solar panel and a small water pump, the product can be used in multiple applications. Regardless if it’s a pond, tank, garden, pool, fountain, or birdbath, this solar water pump will fit right in.

This solar water pump also comes with six different spray nozzles to choose from. With the different spray patterns, you can mix and match them up to find a design to suit your desired aesthetic. Not to mention, it will attract more birds and other wildlife.

Aside from that, the solar water pump is easy to install due to its plug-and-play design. You just simply have to connect all the parts, and you’re done!

2. MADETEC Solar Water Pump Kit

When it comes to small, powerful, and beautiful solar water pumps, MADETEC’s version of a solar powered pump for the pond is quite the catch. With its features and qualities, this solar water pump kit remains a popular choice.

What I like the most about the MADETEC solar water pump kit is its design. It has innovatively combined both style and practicality into the product. Unlike other models in the market, this one has integrated both the water pump and solar panel in a big flat disc.

This makes the MADETEC solar pump for ponds super easy to install, not to mention it saves the hassle of setting up a separate solar panel on the side. With this, you can just easily slide the disc into position and you’re done!

Moreover, this unit comes in a sleek black look, allowing you to blend and design it in any way you want. The water pump also comes with four different spray heads you can choose from which feature different spray patterns to increase your pond’s aesthetic dramatically.

Another thing I like about the product is its performance. Despite being small, the MADETEC water pump is quite powerful, with a maximum flow rate of 150 L/h and a maximum spraying height of 10″-15″. It’s quite powerful to use in small ponds, birdbaths and fountains.

Not to mention, this model features a brushless motor that prolongs its lifespan as well as protects it from damages. With this, the water pump can last for as long as 10,000 hours. The motor also reduces noise and lowers energy consumption, as well as prevents the machine from overworking.

Unlike similar products, this kit comes with a filter, and can effectively block out any dirt, dust, and debris from getting clogged inside. This makes it easy to clean and extends the product’s lifespan.

The MADETEC solar water pump is also quite efficient. Once you dip it into the water and it gets exposed to the sun for at least 3 seconds, the water pump will automatically start working.

3. ECO-WORTHY Solar Water Pump Kit

This relatively new company offers a wide array of eco-friendly and power-efficient products. As such, the company has steadily grown its fan base through the years.

The ECO-WORTHY solar pump kit comes with a solar pump, a water pump, two different spray nozzles, wiring, and stakes. The product also comes in several power options you can choose from. You can get either the 2.5w kit, 10w kit, 12w kit, 20w kit, and 38W kit. This review will cover the 20W version.

What I like the most about the ECO-WORTHY solar pump kit is its durability. The solar panel features a well-made aluminum frame that protects it from all kinds of elements. Not to mention, it is also adjustable into four angles. With this, you’ll get the maximum amount of sunlight.

Moreover, the solar panel comes with a 16-foot cord, allowing the user to set it up in an ideal position comfortably. The included mounts help stabilize the solar panel in its location.

The water pump itself is equally durable. Covered in glossy black paint and made of high-quality ABS material, the water pump is also built to last.

Another thing I like about this unit is that it’s powerful. The 20-watt solar panel supplies enough energy for the water pump.

Indeed, the water pump can generate a maximum flow rate of 359.3 GPH in ideal conditions as well as provide a maximum lift height of 6.9 feet. This makes it suitable for big ponds, tanks, pools, and the like. Plus, it has a long lifespan of 20,000 hours with steady and reliable performance.

I also like the fact that ECO-WORTHY has put a lot of thought into the product’s look and components. Assembly doesn’t take too long as the design is simple. What’s more, is that the solar water pump comes with two removable fountain heads with different spray patterns that you can choose to your liking.

4. Sunnytech Solar Water Pump

Sunnytech started as a family business in New Jersey. With its reliable and efficient products, the business grew in popularity and has later become one of the most trusted solar water pumps.

What I like about the Sunnytech solar water pump is its design which makes it very easy to clean. You can easily detach the fountain heads as well as the panel and pump for cleaning. Since they are so light, you can also transport the whole product to different locations without trouble. It also looks good in black with a minimalistic aesthetic and only requires a little installation.

The solar panel comes with a 3-meter (10-feet) wire that enables you to position it in an ideal location. The included mounts help stabilize the solar panel in place.

This solar water pump also comes with four different spray nozzles, each offering a different spray pattern. You will have fun mixing and matching these patterns that will fit into your aesthetic.

Another thing I like about Sunnytech’s solar pump is its durability. The robust ABS frame protects the product from various elements and weather conditions.

The water pump itself is impressive. With a brushless motor, the product consumes less electricity and works more efficiently. The engine also neutralizes ionizing energy as well as reduces its noise. With this, the whole setup boasts a long service life of 20,000 hours.

Despite being small, the Sunnytech solar pump is quite powerful, with a maximum flow rate of 150L/h. This pump is suitable for use in small to medium ponds, fountains, birdbaths, and the like.

Once you set up the whole thing and the solar panel gets exposed to sunlight, the pump will immediately start working after 3 seconds

5. Solariver Solar Water Pump Kit

Offering a multitude of high-quality and excellent products with great features, Solariver is a brand that many homeowners can count on. The company’s solar water pump kit remains a crowd favorite due to its features.

The Solariver solar powered water pump for ponds includes a water pump, a 20-watt solar panel, and three removable spray pattern nozzles. With all of these components on hand, setting up and installing is a breeze. Just connect the pump to the solar panel with the included cables and you’ll be able to use pumping in no time.

What’s more, the solar pump also comes with wirings and stakes. The 16-foot wiring enables you to find the perfect position for the solar panel while the included stakes stabilize its position.

What I like the most about this kit is its power output. Solariver’s water pump can supply up to 412 GPH at maximum voltage. Plus, you can even adjust the flow rate to suit your pond’s condition.

Moreover, the solar pump for birdbath fountains can project jets of water up to 10.5 feet high. With the included removable nozzles, you can create various spray patterns. Plus, the pump can quickly aerate water in a 1,000-gallon pond.

Another thing I like about the product is its structure and design. The solar panel measures 14 x 20.5 inches, which is large enough to get plenty of sunlight. Not to mention, it features a well-built aluminum frame and the superior energy efficiency and quality of a polycrystalline panel.

It also features an equally impressive 20,000-hour lifespan and a brushless motor. This new technology enables the motor to work virtually noise-free as well as increases its power and torque. It also protects the pump by lowering electromagnetic interference and neutralizing ionizing sparks.

Aside from improving the performance, these safety features also prevent the pump from scarring and hurting the fish and plant life in the pond.

Maintenance is also relatively easy. You’ll just need to wipe the solar panel with a soft cloth, while the submersible pump has a pre-filter that you can just remove and cleanse of any debris.

6. OKMEE Solar Water Pump

When it comes to a beautiful design and efficient performance, the OKMEE solar pump can definitely suit your needs.

Unlike most models, OKMEE has creatively combined the solar panel and water pump into one unit. With this, you got rid of the bulk of having a separate solar panel as well as the hassle of wires and mounts.

As a result, the product is easy to install and transport. Once you’re done an unboxing and turning it on, you’ll just need to slide this sleek disc into the water, and you’re done!

OKMEE has built this product with efficiency and practicality in mind. Compared to similar products, OKMEE’s version comes with a powerful PET laminated solar panel. Once the product gets enough sunlight after 3 seconds, it will automatically start working.

Moreover, the OKMEE solar water pump has a built-in battery. The 1,200 mAH battery can store enough power to enable use during overcast days. In ideal conditions, the water pump can pump up to 60cm in jet height, while in cloudy days, the pump can still pump out up to 30cm in jet height. A fully-charged unit can provide up to 5 hours of usage with lighting.

The pump also has its four nozzles integrated into the sleek disc. With this, you’ll just need to rotate the sprinkler to switch between different modes. Not to mention, the product also comes with six bright LED lights. With this in your arsenal, your water fixture will look good!

OKMEE’s solar pump comes with a filtration box to protect the product from accidentally sweeping in the dirt, dust, and debris that will clog it. Aside from letting it float freely, you also have the option of securing the disc underwater using the 2 included suction cups and wires.

With its features and power, many users tend to place the OKMEE water pump in small to medium water fixtures such as ponds, tanks, birdbaths, pools, and the like.

7. HEYSTOP Solar Water Pump

HEYSTOP is a relatively new company in the solar product industry. Nonetheless, it quickly gained new clientele thanks to its cheap and efficient products.

The HEYSTOP solar pump comes in two different versions. You can choose from the 3w or the 5w version. However, this review will focus on the 5W version.

What I like about the HEYSTOP water pump is its power. Measuring 6.89 in x 10.83 in, the 5w solar panel can perform smoothly even when during overcast and cloudy days. It can sufficiently collect and convert enough sunlight to power the water pump to function up to 2 hours without direct sunlight exposure.

Moreover, the HEYSTOP water pump also comes with a built-in battery backup. This 1,000 mAh battery automatically stores sufficient power for the water pump to work. As such, you can continuously use the product even at night.

This solar water pump doesn’t have any wires, save for the one for the solar panel, so it’s very easy to install and assemble.

The solar panel’s 16-feet wire allows the user to find a suitable location for the panel. At the same time, the included mounts help stabilize its position. With this, the product can be used in various locations, including but not limited to small to medium water fixtures such as ponds, tanks, birdbaths, fountains, etc.

Another thing I like about HEYSTOP’s solar pump is its safety features. With a filter, the device is protected from accidentally sweeping in dust, dirt and other debris that might damage the motor.

The solar water pump is further protected by its sensor, which automatically turns the water pump off once it detects debris or when it doesn’t detect water anymore. When this happens, the water pump also automatically charges itself.

This floating solar pump also comes with six different spray nozzles that feature different water patterns. You can mix and match the patterns to come up with something unique. Aside from that, the different patterns also prevent any water from spilling out.

8. Lewisia Solar Air Pump Kit

Lewisia is known for producing high-quality and power-efficient products. Hence, they are quite popular among homeowners.

The Lewisia solar air pump kit comes in 4 different versions that you can choose from. This includes the 1.5W, the 2W, the 2.5W or the 5W version. Both the 1.5w and 2w kit comes with a USB cable. All versions, however, come with a solar panel, an air aerator, two air hoses and two air stones, and connecting tubing. This review will focus on the 2.5W version.

What I like the most about this solar air pump kit is its power. The panel is also adjustable up to a 180-degree angle, allowing it to get the best position to absorb sunlight.

Moreover, the product also boasts a reliable and consistent performance due to its built-in battery. With this, you can still use the air pump kit even at night time or in bad weather conditions.

When fully charged, the Lewisia solar pump can work for up to 20 hours. With this, you wouldn’t have to charge the unit constantly.

Another thing I like about this solar air pump kit is its design. The kit already contains all the components you will need to set up. Your only job is to connect these parts, which is relatively easy due to its three-step installation process.

The model’s solar panel comes with a 10-feet cable to enable you to position it in farther locations while the stakes help stabilize it.

I also like how this unit comes with air stones to help facilitate aerating the water. As such, the water will have a sufficient oxygen supply. It will also prevent any algae, dirt, or bacteria from building up. With this included, Lewisia’s air pump kit is suitable for raising plant and aquatic wildlife.

The Lewisia air pump comes in three working modes: strong, gentle and cycle on/off so you can find a setting that can better suit your needs. Different colored indicator lights represent each operating mode.

9. AEO Solar Water Pump Kit

The AEO solar water pump kit comes with a polycrystalline solar panel, a water pump, four extension nozzles and three spray patterns, as well as different mounting and installation hardware.

All of the pump’s components are fairly simple and easy to assemble.

The solar panel comes with a 16.4-feet cable that gives the user free rein to install it in any location, while the included mounts help secure and stabilize the solar panel in its place.

One thing I like about this water pump kit is its power. The polycrystalline solar panel measures 16 in x 10 in and has a power of 10 watts. With this, it can sufficiently collect and convert an ample amount of sunlight to power up the water pump. The solar panel is also durable as a robust aluminum frame protects it.

The AEO kit’s water pump is equally impressive. Featuring a brushless motor, the water pump boasts a reliable and consistent performance. The motor not only increases its efficiency but it also protects it from damage. For one, the engine automatically lowers energy consumption and prevents it from overworking.

The water pump has a maximum flow rate of 196 GPH, which is ideal for applications in fish ponds, hydroponic and aquaponic.

Another thing I like is its design. With four different spray nozzles, the product can create stunning displays. This is further enhanced by a maximum jet height of 5.6 feet.

Not only that, the AEO water pump kit’s nozzles also serve to prevent the water from spilling over and getting wasted.

The kit also features an oil-free design. You wouldn’t need to lubricate the water pump to keep it running.

10. Lewisia Solar Water Pump Kit

The Lewisia solar pond fountain pump kit contains all the components you’ll need for easy setup and installation. The kit includes a solar panel, a water pump, five fountain heads, a funnel-shaped tube, an inserted bar, a nozzle adapter, a ground stake mount and 5 LED lights.

What I like the most about the pump is its eye for design. Unlike other brands, Lewisia is quite particular about its product aesthetic. Made out of ABS material, this solar water pump kit features a sleek black design that you can blend and artfully place in ponds, birdbaths, fountains, etc.

As mentioned, the water pump also comes with 5 LED lights. With this, you can decorate your pond even at night. What’s more, it features a unique way of placing the pump in the water. You can either let it float on the surface or submerge it with suction cups via the 2-way filter box, which can protect the pump from debris and dirt.

On the other hand, the solar panel is easily mounted with a ground mount that not only keeps it safe and secure but also makes it pleasant to look at.

Moreover, the water pump comes with five fountain heads that feature different spray patterns, which can be fun for you to play around.

Another thing I like about the Lewisia kit is its battery backup. This built-in feature makes the pump more reliable as you can use it on numerous occasions, especially in low-light conditions.

The water pump works for about 16 hours. When you charge it, make sure that it is turned on and let it soak in the sun for about 8 hours.

Lewisia’s solar pump kit also features an auto-off feature. This safety feature protects the water pump from overworking via the built-in sensor. Once it senses that there’s no more water, the pump immediately stops working.

11. MADETEC Solar Water Pump

The MADETEC solar water pump features an innovative design that combines both the solar panel and water pump into a thin black disc. What’s been more innovative about this is easy transportability because it is small and compact. It is no doubt it is more user-friendly than the previous version is. You can also use it for multiple applications that also include birdbaths, gardens, pools, and tanks.

One thing I like about this solar water pump is its power. Despite being integrated, the 2.5w solar panel still packs quite a punch as it can sufficiently collect and convert solar capacity to power up the water pump.

Moreover, the MADETEC solar water pump comes with an 800 mAH built-in battery to ensure consistent and reliable performance. You wouldn’t have to worry about cloudy and rainy days and other less-than-ideal conditions. The product will continue to work for about an hour even without sunlight.

Another thing I like about this product is its aesthetic and design. Aside from the solar panel and pump, this floating disc has also integrated six different spray heads. You can just rotate the disc to choose the nozzle.

These different patterns provide enchanting displays as the disc’s nozzle has a maximum water height of 50cm. With this, you can attract different birds and other wildlife.

I also like how the product is well-built. The water pump features a brushless motor that increases its lifespan. Aside from that, the motor also reduces noise as well as lowers energy consumption.

There is also a protection feature that you’ll need to turn off before you use the product. Before placing it in the water, the solar pump should first be placed in a dark room for about 5 seconds. After this, the product is now ready for use.

12. LATITOP Solar Water Pump

Compared to other water pumps, LATITOP has innovatively combined both the solar panel and water pump into a sleek, smooth black disc. With this, you won’t have to worry about the added weight of separate components as well as the hassle of having multiple wires.

Not to mention this design is also convenient. With this, you can easily install and transport the product to any location. You just need to slide this 6.3-inched disc into your water fixture of choice, and you’re done. The water pump will automatically start working after getting at least 3 seconds of direct sunlight exposure.

LATITOP’s solar water pump has also integrated its spray nozzles in the disc. Rotating the nozzle will change the water pattern. LATITOP offers four different spray styles, with up to 50cm-70cm jet heights.

Another thing I like about the LATITOP solar water pump is its power. Compared to other similar models, this unit comes with a 180mm x 3mm solar panel with a power of 2.4w. With this, the panel can sufficiently collect and convert enough solar power to make it perform even on cloudy days.

Moreover, this solar water pump also comes with its own built-in battery, which can store enough power to enable the product to work for up to 2 hours into the night and in various less-than-ideal situations.

With its design, the LATITOP solar water pump can be used in several applications. Most users tend to use them in small to medium water fixtures.

Aside from this, LATITOP also offers excellent and responsive customer service and support. The company provides free replacements within six months, while its customer support lines are always available 24/7.

What Is A Solar Pond Pump And Who Is This For

A solar pond pump is just your standard version of a water pump that is powered by sunlight. As energy bills continuously increase, people have been innovating and finding ways to reduce these costs at any opportunity. Not to mention, since it runs on solar power, it’s also a great way to help the environment.

Solar pond pumps are often found in pools, gardens, ponds, fountains, and aquariums and are sometimes used for irrigation purposes. These pumps mainly facilitate the oxygen circulation in your pond, thereby helping your pond’s plant and animal life thrive.

Moreover, constant oxygen circulation will also help in the maintenance and cleanliness of the pond. As the water keeps getting aerated, it staves off the growth of unwanted algae, moss, bacteria and the like.

With their benefits, solar pond pumps are popular among homeowners- so much so that they come in various types, sizes, designs, etc. The wide range of choices is welcome, but it also complicates the selection process.

This guide, however, will help you. By providing everything, you’ll need to know about these pumps, from necessary information to solar pond pump reviews, choosing and purchasing the best solar pond pump for your home will be a breeze!

How Does It Work

Solar pumps for ponds, more or less, have the same components, namely a solar panel and a motor pump.

The solar panel is the one responsible for collecting and converting sunlight into solar energy. The panel contains photovoltaic cells which capture the photons, or light energy, from the sun.

Once the light energy enters, it reacts with the cells until electrons are knocked off. This produces direct current electricity. However, like most appliances, solar powered pumps for ponds can only run on alternating current.

This is where the pump’s motor comes in as it will convert the generated electricity into alternating current. Like the pumps, these electric motors also vary in terms of size, capacity and power. You should choose the motor based on the purpose of the pump. However, you can just replace the motor with a better one later and upgrade it if you so prefer.

Once it is converted, the alternative current then travels through the solar fountain pump to start aerating your pond. Sometimes, however, the energy generated by the solar panel will be too much for the pump to consume.

The excess energy generated is then stored in a bank as an alternative energy source for solar fountain pumps with battery storage. As such, you’ll still be able to aerate and sustain the plant and animal life in your pond despite having no sunlight.

What Are The Different Types Of Solar Pond Pumps

Solar pond pumps provide numerous benefits. However, before you can get and enjoy those, you’ll have to face the complicated and rather tedious journey of purchasing one.

As mentioned before, solar powered water pumps for ponds vary in size, type, and design. This section will list all the different versions of these pumps currently found in the market.

Submersible Solar Pumps

As their name suggests, submersible pumps are capable of submersion for long periods of time. Because of this, their solar panels usually stick out above the water. However, some manufacturers choose to embed the solar panels in the water pump’s plastic, where they can just easily peek out of the pond’s surface.

Submersible pumps are your typical solar power water fountain pumps or pond pumps. Homeowners like the fact that these types are small and inconspicuous and wouldn’t bother with the overall design and aesthetic of the water features.

These pumps are also inexpensive and easy to maintain. As such, they are quite common. The submersible pump, as well as its filters and other components, are also easy to procure.

External Solar Pumps

Compared to its submersible counterparts, external solar pumps are more prominent as they come with higher power capacities. As such, you’ll often find them in big fountains and ponds and sometimes even for irrigation purposes.

Moreover, pond owners who are raising animals such as frogs and fishes, as well as plants, also tend to favor these types as they provide vast surges of oxygen in the water.

Aside from that, their big capacities make these pumps more efficient. Not to mention, they are easier to monitor as they just stick outside the water. With this, you can promptly start on repairs and maintenance should the need arise.

There are also pumps that include a solar powered pond pump and filter. Unlike the first type, these pumps usually come with biological filters and leaf strainers to aid them in aerating solar powered large pond fountains.

However, because of their power, these large solar pond pumps can be quite noisy. Not to mention, these pumps tend to be more expensive, with their price only getting higher the nicer their electric motor is.

Regardless whether you’ll choose a submersible or external solar pump, it’s essential to choose one that is perfectly suitable to the size and depth of your pond or fountain. It should also be one that can meet your intended purpose.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using A Solar Pond Pump

Knowing the benefits and drawbacks a product provides is an essential requisite for every consumer. With this, you can properly manage your expectations of the product as well as adequately prepare for contingencies.

Like all products, solar pond pumps also have their fair share of advantages and disadvantages. A good model should have more pros than cons. This section will list all of these reasons.

Advantages

• Constant Oxygenation

Homeowners raising their aquatic flora and fauna understand just how much these species depend on oxygen to thrive.

The solar water pond pumps continuously provide additional oxygen to the water. As such, you can see your pond and its inhabitants thrive in the long run.

Added to that, solar pond pumps with rechargeable battery backups help ensure that you won’t be affected by unfortunate weather and light conditions. When these situations happen, the water pump can just utilize the energy they have stored.

Once the power comes back on, the water pump itself will automatically replenish its alternative power supply.

• Improve Aesthetics

Solar water pumps are great additions to your solar pond fountains and ponds. For one, they continuously circulate the oxygen inside the water.

If you have aquatic plants and wildlife, more oxygen creates a thriving community. As such, you can see vibrant fishes as well as colorful aquatic plants in the long run.

Moreover, a well-aerated pump also reduces the growth of unwanted algae, moss and other bacteria. As such, you wouldn’t have to clean your pond or fountain frequently.

While the water pump itself is not that pleasing to look at, there are types that you can hide underwater.

• Help save energy

Regular water pumps can be quite pricey in the long run. This is because you will need to run them continuously, especially when you are taking care of fish, plants, and other aquatic life. This constant use can build up to be quite a cost in your energy bill.

Solar water pumps help reduce these costs to almost zero. By using solar energy, you can effectively do away with one less energy-consuming appliance.

Disadvantages

• Can be pricey

Solar water pumps can be quite costly, especially when you are looking for units with powerful electric motors. However, chances are, you wouldn’t even need that much power.

How We Picked And Tested

Solar water pumps are great additions to your ponds and fountains as they can continuously circulate and aerate the water supply. With this, you wouldn’t have to worry about moss-infested or algae-clogged water as well as lethargic aquatic life.

Not to mention, solar water pumps also provide a whole lot of benefits. With this, they are quite popular among homeowners because they come in different types, designs, and shapes.

Because of this, choosing one can be quite difficult, especially for beginners. However, you wouldn’t have to worry. This buying guide will list down all the factors you’ll need to consider when on the lookout for a solar water pump.

Maximum Output (Flow Rate)

This refers to the number of gallons of water per hour the solar water or the power the pump has. Standard units like the 1,000 gph solar pond pumps have enough power to aerate your pond or fountain’s water supply.

The rule here is that the more energy the pump can supply, the more water it can move and, therefore, aerate. Bigger ponds would require larger pump capacities.

Lift Height

This refers to the maximum height the solar fountain pump can lift your water from its surface. This number increases while the flow rate decreases. To get the ideal height, you might want to get a strong pump to cancel out the low flow rate.

Construction

Solar water pumps are usually made out of plastic and aluminum. However, some units are made out of ABS.

If you want a solar water pump that lasts long, it’s essential to check the type of material it utilizes. Make sure the material is thick and weatherproof and complies with the product’s standards.

Size

The bigger your pond is, the more energy you’ll need to aerate it. As such, it’s essential to know your pond’s dimensions before setting off and buying a pump.

Solar Panel

Of course, you should also consider the size, power and composition of the pump’s solar panel to gauge the amount of energy you need. Skimping on this would only lead to product failures and other problems.

Make sure the solar panel can adequately supply enough power to aerate the water supply. Most panels come in 12 volts. It’s also important to check its material to ensure its durability.

It’s also best to get a panel that comes with its mount so you can easily position it to face the sun.

Battery

Solar powered pond pumps with battery backups are the right choice if you want to use the product continually. They are especially helpful when you live in areas with less daylight. The battery backup is also useful when you are raising fish and plants, as the unit can still work during the night.

However, keep in mind these units tend to be more expensive than models without battery backups.

If you want, you can also purchase a unit that has a power cord in case the battery bank gets depleted.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size solar pond pump do I need?

As a rule, water pumps, including solar pumps for ponds, should move at least half the pond’s capacity every hour. For example, a solar panel pond pump capable of pumping 200 gallons of water per hour (about 3.33 gallons per minute) is sufficient for small ponds of about 400 gallons.

Of course, you could always choose a larger solar water pump for pond applications. A 1:1 ratio would be ideal, especially for a solar Koi pond pump, where the device’s size is equal to the pond’s size (i.e., a 1000-GPH pump for a 1000-gallon pond).

Now, if the pond is somewhat higher than the water source, the rule might be a little different. You will need to account for gravity’s effects on water flow. Hence, the guideline to observe is a 500-liter per hour pump for every half-meter of water lift or elevation.

This rule is ideal for waterfall applications. For example, a large two-meter (6.56 feet) high waterfall requires a solar water pump with a 2,000-liter-per-hour capacity. This figure translates to about 528.34 gallons per hour or 8.8 gallons per minute. You can also observe this guideline for fountain applications.

Solar powered pond pump or an electric pond pump: what should I choose?

Choosing between a solar pump for large pond units and an electric version depends on your priorities. A solar-powered model should be sufficient to circulate water from the pond through the fountain and over it.

On the other hand, a solar pond pump and filter combo might not be a good idea because most pond filtration systems require more power to ensure safe oxygen levels in the water. Of course, you could connect the solar panels to a high-capacity battery to guarantee continuous water filtration, 24/7.

Do solar pond pumps work in winter?

Yes, solar pumps for fish ponds work in winter, albeit at a reduced capacity and electrical output. Solar systems rely on light input more than heat. Hence, even when cold outside, solar panels can still collect sunlight and transform it into electricity to run the pump.

Sadly, this is where winter effects set in. Daytimes are shorter in winter than in summer, especially as we approach the Winter Solstice.

The shorter days translate to lesser sun exposure, preventing solar panels from charging the system effectively. Even small solar pond pumps need efficient solar panels to produce electricity and run water through the pond.

That said, you could run the solar powered submersible water pump with battery units.

How long does a solar pool pump last?

How long a DIY solar pond pump lasts depends on the individual components’ longevity. Solar-powered pond pumps have solar panels, a controller, and a pump. These elements have respective operational lifespans, and the shortest-lived part can undermine the pond pump’s overall longevity.

High-quality monocrystalline solar panels can last up to four decades with proper maintenance, while the average is about a quarter of a century. If you use polycrystalline PV cells in your solar pond project, you can expect the panels to last 35 years with excellent quality and two decades if not.

Most solar panel kits already have charge controllers. High-quality charge controllers have a two-decade lifespan, although cheap knockoffs might only last several years. You will also need an inverter if your pump motor runs on AC power, and this component can last 10 to 15 years.

On the other hand, pond pump motors can run for a decade up to a dozen years. Adding backup batteries to the setup can reduce the solar pond pump’s longevity. Sealed lead acids last only three to twelve years, while lithium-iron-phosphate units can last about a decade.

What are the most trusted solar pond pump brands?

Solar water pumps come in various sizes, shapes, types, designs, and the like due to the difference in manufacturers and brands. Selecting a unit for your use can be difficult as there are numerous factors to consider.

Of course, research is always a must, but if you are feeling overwhelmed or you don’t know where to start, selecting based on the manufacturer or company is also an acceptable method.

Popular and trusted brands include Solariver, Lewisia, MADETEC, AISITIN, ECO-WORTHY, Sunnytech, OKMEE, HEYSTOP, LATITOP, AEO, to name a few.

This is because these brands have been consistently producing excellent products and services that many homeowners trusts.

Do solar pond pumps work at night?

You might think that because they are solar, these water pumps will only work when they are under the sun. That is true to a certain extent. Solar water pumps do require solar energy to generate their power supply.

However, this doesn’t mean they won’t work at night. Some solar water pumps are equipped with technologies that still enable them to gather solar energy even in low-light to no-light conditions. But since they are running under less than ideal conditions, they might take a long time to perform their functions.

On the other hand, there are solar pond pumps with battery backups. With this, the pumps utilize the energy they stored inside the batteries, which allow them to work at night or even in power interruptions and failures.

A solar fountain pump with battery storage often has battery banks, which are also rechargeable. The solar panel is once again faced against the sun.

How to use & install?

Solar water pumps are relatively easy to install. Some users even just installed them on their own without calling a professional.

They often come in kits that have all the hardware and components you will need to set up. A standard kit will include the solar panel, the filter, the pump, the motor as well as hoses and connectors.

These kits also provide you with instruction manuals and guides. Make sure you read them before proceeding. If there are none, you can always go to the manufacturer’s website.

When installing, make sure to properly position and angle your solar panel to get the most amount of sunlight. Once you get the desired position, securely mount the panel in place.

The next thing you do is to connect the wires of the pump to the solar panel. With this, the energy gathered by the panel will be delivered to the pump.

Lastly, make sure that the pump is securely attached to the whole unit. Ensure that everything is in place before you turn the product on. If done correctly, the unit will start pumping.

When you want to clean it, make sure that the solar water pump is adequately turned off to avoid any accidents.

How to care & clean?

Solar water pumps require little to almost no maintenance. Of course, regular cleaning is a must as it ensures that the unit is in good working condition. Most homeowners usually clean their units about twice a month. However, you can do more if you feel like it.

Many users recommend contacting your manufacturer to help identify the water pump’s most useful cleaning method. However, most of the time, they adhere to the standard cleaning method, which is using a soft sponge and soapy water.

When you want to clean the water pump, make sure you turn it off and properly take it out first. Then proceed with the steps. Aside from cleaning the solar panels, it’s also essential to clean the unit’s water inlets and filter when it gets too dirty.

Regular check-ups and maintenance are also essential for your solar water pump to ensure that it’s performing well. You’ll need to monitor the health of your solar panel as well as the motor and pump.

If you spot any problems, fix the damaged component immediately. Otherwise, you’ll just create more problems in the long-run. Luckily, the pump’s parts are relatively easy to procure.

Where to buy?

Water pumps, solar or not, are easy to purchase. You can usually find them in your local aquatic shops, hardware stores, home depots, and other specialty shops. If you want, you can even purchase these water pumps online from trusted sites such as Amazon, eBay, Lowes, etc.

You’ve already had a specific brand or manufacturer in mind. You can always go and visit their websites and purchase there.

However, if you have time, you might want to purchase the water pump unit in person. With this, you can evaluate the product and ask experts or the salesperson for help if you are unsure of how to compare several products.

Conclusion

Like all products, solar water pumps also come in a wide array of types, designs, and sizes. While the options are welcome, they do complicate the selection and purchase process a bit.

With this, there are a lot of factors you will need to consider. Regardless, choosing and buying the best solar pond pump is all up to you. Just make sure that it can fit in your pond or fountain and that it can meet most of your needs.

Hopefully, this buying guide has provided you with useful information to ease your worries. Happy shopping!