How to Drain a Pond With the Sump Pump

Overview

Drain a pond at least once a year to remove old water and clean debris, such as leaves and plant waste, from the bottom of the pond. With an additional sump pump hose, the sump pump that circulates water can also be used to drain the pond. For ponds without a sump pump, decrease the amount of time required to drain a pond by using a sump pump instead of a siphon hose.

Step 1

Attach the sump pump hose to either the sump pump or the hose already attached to the sump pump. If the sump pump is already installed in the pond, it is usually easier to attach the hose to the end of the hose in the pond. If a sump pump is being placed in the pond, attach the hose to the sump pump before placing it in the pond.

Step 2

Place the clamp on the end of the hose that is being installed.

Step 3

Push the end of the hose over the pump outlet or the end of the existing hose.

Step 4

Move the clamp over the area where the pump hose overlaps the pump outlet or existing hose. Tighten by turning the screw on the metal band clamp.

Step 5

Lay the attached sump pump hose to pump the water away from the pond. The water will flow with some force, so be careful to place the end in an area that it will not wash away soil from plants.

Step 6

Lift the autofloat, if available, to turn on the pump. If the pump does not have an autofloat, turn on the pump.

Step 7

Remove the hose when finished draining the pond.