Performance Pro Artesian 2 pond pumps have been the pump that I have used almost exclusively. There has been no reason for me to purchase and install anything else into my jobs. They are reliable, quiet, energy efficient, and can move large volumes of water.
A very nice feature of these Performance Pro Artesian 2 pond pumps, is that they have a strainer basket built-in. Having a strainer basket, or what is also called a pump trap, is an important addition that should be included with every pump installation. The purpose of a pump trap is to collect and “trap” any debris so that it does not get into and clog or damage the pumps impeller. Many other pumps do not have a trap built in, and must be purchased separately. Not only does this add an extra cost, it also may cause issues with a watertight seal where they connect to the pump. This may affect the pumps ability to hold its prime and stop running. Another issue with having to buy a trap separately is that not all pumps and traps are compatible with each other. This makes it difficult to use them together without all kinds of crazy fittings to “make it work”. Sometimes, separate pump traps have small inlet and outlet fitting that can restrict the waterflow in and out to your pump. These built-in traps on the Performance Pro pumps have large 2″ fittings coming into the pump, and a large opening from the trap into the impeller. This allows the water to flow very freely.
Available Sizes and RPM Flow Rates
The pumps are available in many different sizes, from 1/8hp up to 1hp. (3000 gallons per hour up to 13,000 gallons per hour). There are two types of Artesian 2 pumps, they are what is referred to as “Low RPM” and “High Flow”. The low RPM is the most common type of pump that I use. They are very energy efficient, quiet running and can move a lot of water. However, they do not have a lot of head pressure. The impeller rotates at 1725 rpm compared to the other high flow pumps that spin at 3450 rpm. This decreases their ability to pump or pull from long distances, as well as push the water up high to a large waterfall. These pumps will loose pressure the further away and higher they need to pump. For most pond applications this is not an issue. They can handle most common everyday pond pumping filtering demands without any problems. For more information on this, see my article on “Pond Pumps vs. Pool Pumps”. https://pondscapesandmore.com/external-pond-pumps-vs-pool-pumps/
The high flow pumps are used when that higher head pressure is needed. If pulling water or pumping long distances, or pumping up very high, this is your pump. The pumps are not crazy loud, but certainly are louder running than the low rpm pumps. Being much stronger, they draw a lot more power than the low rpm style pumps and therefore cost you more to run. They are more comparable to something like a swimming pool pump in function, but seen to still be somewhat more energy efficient than a lot of pool pumps.
Cost And Energy Efficiency
These pumps are quite expensive compared to pool pumps or even other pond pumps, however I really believe that you get what you pay for. Performance Pro Artesian 2 pond pumps are the “Mercedes” of pond pumps, and a very important part of your ponds “life support system”. Pumps allow your filtration systems to work properly and in many instances keep your pond well oxygenated by pumping water down waterfalls or streams. If your pump should clog up or fail, your fish and pond may be in serious danger.
The cost of the pump is a one time expense. One thing that you need to understand, is that the cost of operating these pumps (especially the low rpm models) is very low. They will save you a considerable amount of money over their lifetime. For example a pool pump that costs $500.00 may be 1hp and pump 6,000 gph. It may draw about 12 Amps. A similar Performance Pro pump that moves the same 6,000gph may cost $950.00, but it is 1/4hp and draws around 3.5 Amps. The cheaper pump may cost $450.00 less initially to purchase, but you may be paying 3x to 4x per month more in electric costs. It could cost you $30.00 to $50.00 or more per month. That’s a big difference! Also, let’s keep in mind that these ponds are meant to be running constantly 24/7 for most of the year if not all year round in some areas. A pool may only be running for a few hours a day. Electric consumption is a very important thing to consider.
Some Final Thoughts
Performance Pro Artesian 2 pumps have a long lifespan as well. That is providing that they are kept clean. That means not allowing dirt, mulch or even water to wash up against and into the pumps motor, back fan cover or underside. This holds true for all pumps. I have clients that have had these pumps running for close to ten years. I do recommend that these pumps be serviced every few years. I take them into a local motor service shop where they will open them up, test them electrically and replace the bearings and seals. When they are done, it’s like a new pump.
For more information and to purchase a pump, see my website at www.pondscapesandmore.com and at the top of the home page, go to featured Products. Also check out my product review video on my YouTube Channel (Jersey Shore Pondscapes Videos https://youtu.be/T2awXS0E5Ng ). Thank You!
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