2025 Small Pond & Water Garden
Self-Adjusting Skimmer
Our original Small Pond & Water Garden Skimmer has long been a favorite among our customers—so much so that we've created a new, enhanced model designed to meet our ambitious 2025 goals: sturdier construction, easier maintenance, and increased effectiveness. We believe we've not only achieved these goals but surpassed them. The 2025 version introduces substantial improvements, so much so that we've decided to continue offering both the original and the new model.
The skimmer shown in the graphic is installed in our 125-gallon test tank and is operating smoothly at 350 gallons per hour, and powered by a Hygger HG915-3000 pump.
Key Differences: 2025 vs. 2024 Small Pond Skimmer
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Water Flow Rate: 2025 model can handle much higher flow rates; we've tested up to 800 GPH.
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Water Level Flexibility: The graphic demonstrates that the 2025 model efficiently operates in shallower water compared to the previous version.
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Filter Chamber Opening: Increased from 34.5mm (2024) to 44.8mm (2025)improving water flow and performance.
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Outside Funnel Diameter: Expanded from 84.7mm (2024) to 110mm (2025).
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Guppy Guard: Thicker and more durable for enhanced protection.
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Body Material: 2025 model made from sturdy 3" ABS pipe.
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Skimmer Head Connection: Now constructed from robust ASA plastic.
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Skimmer Bottom: Standard 3/4" NPS threads and made with ASA plastic.
2025 Small Pond Skimmer in our 125-gallon Test Tank @ 350 GPH
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We just set up a water garden in a Rubbermaid 125-gallon livestock trough. The water quickly became murky after adding potted water lilies.
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The skimmer immediately started pulling debris from the surface while aerating the water.
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Our filter chamber contains a sponge, a Matala pad, and filter floss.
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After capturing significant debris and clarifying the water, the flow eventually slows. A quick rinse of the sponge and Matala pad and replacing the filter floss restores full flow.
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By the next day, the water is clear and healthy.
This is our experience in the test tank. You can use any media that fits the chamber—we include a template to help you easily trim media to size. The skimmer can run with any suitable pump—here, we chose a variable-speed pump. When the filter media is clean, we keep the pump power low. As media becomes dirty, you can clean it or increase pump power if you're using a variable-speed pump.