After the initial fill up and test run of the filter system we identified a number of small drips and a few leaks which would need our attention. Despite our best efforts to create a leak free system by taking care when gluing the pipework etc together, we knew that a few leaks would be inevitable.
The first areas to come under scrutiny were the leaks. These being around both pumps and the bead filter. A change of connector on one of the pumps rectified that leak whilst application of PTFE tape followed by a good tighten up rectified the other pump. The bead filter quickly followed after repositioning a rubber ring on top of the unit that seals the lid, then tightening up the bolts a little more then we'd previously done. We also had to tighten up more the bypass connectors as these were dripping water, which was duly done.
We then set about curing the other drips around the pipework which we completed as and when they were found with some good old "gunk" or tape. We systematically worked our way around the pipework and cured the drips until we couldn't see anymore.
After rectifying the leaks it was time to start the pumps up and get the system running. The switch was flicked and the pump surged into action. For a minute or so everything was working well - water was gushing into the vortex and we had a good flow into the Nexus with levels being maintained in both. However the bead filter seemed to be spluttering a bit. AIR !!! After fixing the rubber seal issue on the bead filter we'd forgotten to purge the air, which was quickly done. Take two!
The pump was switched back on and the levels etc checked in the vortex and Nexus. A quick check of the pond returns outside followed where we noticed that the flow out of the returns seemed to ebb. Back into the filter and we soon identified the issue. The pump was almost sucking the Nexus dry. We valved the flow from the Nexus to the pomp down which made a difference, however it was nearly shut. The pump was obviously too powerful.
On the flip side, we noticed that with the skimmer there didn't seem to be any significant pull whatsoever. The conclusion being that the pump on the skimmer line was too small. We swapped it over and tried our old Aquamax 10,000 and it made a vast improvement straight away.
After a quick phone call, Paul at A19 Koi & Pond Supplies was more than happy to help us out with our little predicament, as he has done throughout our pond build. Armed with two Superfish 12,000 we returned home eager to set the pumps up and get switched on as soon as possible. However first we had to deal with one last leak .......
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