 "Pondmaster Pro 5000 Skimmer")
Large, professional pond filtration system at an attractive price. Efficiently removes unsightly floating debris to keep ponds up to 6,000 gallons clean. Features a large capacity leaf basket to prevent pump clogs and a buoyant weir-flange to keep fish and wildlife safe. Accommodates most pumps up to 5,000 gph. 26" x 24" x 23" high Includes: Skimmer vault, removable debris basket, reinforced lid, adjustable weir door, silicone sealant, 1-1/2" and 2" fittings, hardware, and installation instructions. Please click on "More Information" for installation instructions. | ||||||
| General Information The Pro 5000 Skimmer is designed to be strong enough to resist collapsing from the pressure of the soil and water around it, even when empty. It can easily support the weight of decorative stones or even the occasional child or animal visitor. Caution: Although capable of supporting the weight of an adult, the Lid is not designed to support regular foot traffic. Location Options
External Skimmer Placement (Outside the Pond Liner) The Pro 5000 is designed to attach easily to the outside of any pond lined with flexible EPDM, PVC, or Butyl Rubber. For maximum circulation of pond water, the skimmer should be located on the side of the pond farthest from the stream or waterfall. Since the waterfall is the focal point, set the skimmer on the opposite side so it won't draw attention away from the waterfall. Once the location has been determined, decide where the pumped water is to be routed. One method is to run the hose to a pressurized pond filter system connected to a biological filter falls. From there, the water can flow directly into the pond or into a stream. Another choice would be to route the water to a fountainhead for a decorative effect. If greater circulation of a larger pond is the goal, the return hose can run directly into a deep pocket or a stagnant corner to create a current that flows back to the skimmer. NOTE: The power source for the pump must be within direct reach of the pump's power cord.
Internal Skimmer Placement (Inside the Pond Liner) Once the location has been determined, decide where the pumped water is to be routed. One method is to run the hose to a pressurized pond filter system connected to a biological filter falls. From there, the water can flow directly into the pond or into a stream. Another choice would be to route the water to a fountainhead for a decorative effect. If greater circulation of a larger pond is the goal, the return hose can run directly into a deep pocket or a stagnant corner to create a current that flows back to the skimmer.
Choosing the Correct Pump Whenever possible, use a larger hose diameter to minimize friction and maximize water flow. Even upsizing from 1-1/2" to 2" flex PVC hose can make a major difference in the actual water flow. The manufacturer recommends the Pondmaster 1800, 2400, 3600, 5000, Mag-Drive Waterfall Pump 2000, or the Mag-Drive Waterfall Pump 3000.
Installation to Flexible Liner Once the location has been determined, dig a hole slightly larger than the length and width of the skimmer. This hole should expose the edge of the liner without damaging it. You will need enough slack to allow the liner to rest against the skimmer without pulling or wrinkling (you may have to excavate more to get enough play in the liner). The depth of the hole depends on the maximum water level in your pond. The bottom of the hole should be 22" below the actual or desired maximum water level. This depth will allow the water level to drop 7" without any loss of skimmer function. Make sure the skimmer is level with the surface. Carefully clean and rinse the liner with water and dry it with paper towels or a clean cloth. The liner must be clean and dry for the sealer to bond properly. Set the skimmer in the hole. Make sure the liner sits freely up against the skimmer without wrinkling or pulling. Screw the back plate through the liner and onto the skimmer. Apply a continuous 1/4" bead of sealer on the inside of the faceplate, toward the inner edge. Then apply a continuous 1/4" bead of sealer around the skimmer opening. Make sure there are no spaces or voids in the bead. Immediately attach the faceplate to the backing plate using the supplied stainless steel screws. Tighten the screws by hand or use a power screwdriver at the lowest setting making sure not to strip the screw holes. Carefully install all the screws, alternating from one side to the next. A small amount of sealer should squeeze out from around the faceplate. Once all the screws are in place, use a sharp blade or knife to cut out the excess liner from the skimmer opening. Wipe off the excess sealant around the opening. Wait until the sealant has set before filling.
Installation of Pump Use a hole-saw to drill a properly sized opening for the bulkhead fitting. This opening should be located on the flat panel on the back of the skimmer. Be sure to leave a flat, sealing surface around this opening (3/4" border). Apply a continuous, 1/4" bead of sealer around the hole you just drilled in the skimmer (both the front and back). Be sure the sealer is applied right to the edges of the opening to ensure a secure bond. Place one of the rubber gaskets on the bulkhead fitting and insert the bulkhead fitting through the opening, from the inside of the skimmer out. The threads of the bulkhead fitting should be on the outside. From the outside, place the other rubber gasket into the bead of sealer. Place the cardboard washer over the rubber gasket so the bulkhead nut will turn freely without rotating the gasket. Thread the bulkhead nut by hand, making sure the rubber gasket does not squeeze out of place. Wait until the sealer sets before filling. Once the sealer has set, you can attach the plumbing to your pump. |
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