Selecting Waterfall Products
choose the right products
What do you need to build a waterfall?
Using the right sized pump is the most important part of building a waterfall. Pair your pump with the right products to build a DIY waterfall!
Step 1: Calculate Your Waterfall GPH
The rule of thumb is for every 1 in. of spillway width, you need 100 gallons per hour flow to achieve a “sheet” look.
- Divide by two for a “trickle” look.
- Multiply by two for a “Niagara” look.
Consider starting with a spillway like our 8 in. Spillway.
Example: The desired look of the waterfall is a “sheet” flow, so we need to multiply the spillway's width by 100. For this example, we'll use an 8 in. spillway. 8 x 100 = 800 GPH.
Step 2: Measure Pump Height & Tubing
Now it's time to find the total pumping height your waterfall pump will need to have. This combines two measurements: the height of your waterfall and the length of tubing running to it.
- Waterfall height is the vertical distance (in feet) from the surface of your pond water to the top of the spillway. Measure only the vertical rise, not horizontal distance. If you haven't built yet, most backyard waterfalls fall between 1 and 3 feet tall, so use your best estimate.
- Tubing distance adds resistance your pump has to work against. Measure the length of tubing in feet from where it exits the pond to the top of the waterfall. For every foot of tubing, add 10 inches to your waterfall height measurement. Keep in mind, excessive bends or in-line filters will reduce the flow.
Putting it together using our example waterfall:
- Waterfall height: 3 ft.
- Tubing length: 3 ft. x 10 in. = 30 in. or 2 ft. 6 in.
- Total pumping height: 3 ft. waterfall height + 2 ft. 6 in. tubing length = 5 ft. 6 in.
In this example, you need a pump that delivers your target 800 GPH flow rate at a height of 5 ft. 6 in.
Step 3: Choose Your Waterfall Pump
Choose a waterfall pump to match the height and width of your waterfall. Be sure to check the pump’s specification for the ideal pumping height of your pump at the head of your waterfall.
Select a pump, we offer a range of waterfall pump options.
Additional Information
Don’t forget the Tubing!
For pond and waterfall pumps, we recommend using the largest tubing size option for maximum performance. All smartpond pumps and filters recommend the appropriate tubing, be sure to consult the label or website for compatible tubing size.
Finishing touches
Adding rocks or flowers around your pond is a great way to hide cords and tubing. Rocks or pavers also help weigh down the liner. For the finishing touch, the addition of nozzle displays, spitters, lights, and floating décor make your pond look complete.
It’s time to start building!
You’ve planned your waterfall and selected the products, now it's time to build!