Black Hole Skimmers
Do it with peers.
Do it with Black Hole Skimmers.
How These Projects Are Developed
Every design on this page begins as a real-world problem. Prototypes are tested in active ponds and aquariums, revised through observation, and refined through multiple iterations before being published. Revisions, failures, and improvements are documented openly — because better systems come from understanding what didn’t work first.
Bodies of water — including lakes, ponds, backyard ponds, and water gardens — naturally develop a thick layer of muck on the bottom over time. This layer forms as organic material such as fish waste, uneaten food, and leaves sink and decay. As the muck accumulates, it degrades water quality by increasing phosphates and nitrates, both of which are harmful to fish and significantly increase the likelihood of algae blooms and green water.
One of the most effective ways to reduce bottom muck in any body of water is by increasing oxygen levels at the bottom. Higher oxygen concentrations allow beneficial aerobic bacteria to thrive and break down organic waste more efficiently. In addition, removing suspended organics before they fully decay greatly reduces the formation of muck in the first place.
The DIY PondLift Bottom Filter is designed to accomplish both — and more.
In this project: We show how to build a simple but effective bottom filter using a small storage container, a bucket, and a high-head submersible pump. The design is flexible and can be adapted using most storage containers or buckets, allowing you to tailor the system to your specific pond or water feature.