Every koi keeper knows that water clarity and pond health depend heavily on good filtration. While many filter types exist, drum filters are often called the top choice for serious hobbyists. They stand apart because they combine powerful mechanical cleaning with automatic operation, making pond care easier while ensuring koi live in a healthy environment.
This is also why Burtons Aquatics drum filters are trusted by so many pond owners. These filters are recommended by That Pond Guy, a trusted source of koi pond information, and they have a reputation for performance and durability.
That Pond Guy has earned a reputation as an expert in helping pond keepers discover convenient solutions that save time and enhance the quality of water, making them the right solution for hobbyists seeking expert advice.
How Drum Filters Work
At the core of the drum filter is a stainless-steel mesh, usually 60 to 80 microns fine. Water flows into the drum of the filter, where the mesh captures solid waste particles, even those smaller than a human hair.
As debris builds up, the water flow changes, and a sensor activates an automatic cleaning cycle. The drum will revolve, and spray bars will spray the trapped dirt down into a waste chute, ensuring that the screen remains clean.
This cleaning is an automatic process, which occurs between 15 and 45 minutes, depending on your pond size, stocking, and flow rate. The outcome is a constant mechanical filtration process, eliminating the need for daily rinsing and scrubbing of filters.
What Sets Drum Filters Apart
Drum filters are different because they provide:
- Automatic cleaning – Reduces regular maintenance and gives you more time to enjoy your koi.
- High flow rates – Moves large volumes of water, improving clarity and helping koi grow.
- Multiple inlets – Connect skimmers and bottom drains for more efficient waste removal.
- Compact design – High performance without taking up much space.
- Improved clarity – Collects waste from both the pond bottom and surface water.
Choosing the Right Setup
Drum filters come in two main versions. The standalone drum offers mechanical filtration, whereas a Combi Drum offers both mechanical and biological chambers within a single unit. The decision on either one would rely on the space, budget, and size of the koi collection.
Some koi keepers prefer separate units for flexibility and room to expand biological capacity, while others go for the simpler layout of a Combi.
Budget does play a role. Spares, initial price, and brand reliability matter because a drum filter uses electrical and moving parts in a wet environment. The positive side is that most brands have inbuilt safety measures, such as bypass systems; thus, pond water continues circulating even when maintenance is needed.
Final Thoughts
What makes drum filters different is their ability to combine automation, compactness, and real performance. Koi keepers can enjoy healthier fish and clearer water without spending hours cleaning, thanks to the reduced workload. Want to lower maintenance without sacrificing water quality? A drum filter is a clever addition to any koi pond.