Collection: Waterfall Pumps

Engineering the Perfect Cascade: TDH & Flow Dynamics

For a waterfall, the most critical parameter is Total Dynamic Head (TDH). Our high-head pumps for waterfalls possess the torque necessary to overcome gravity and the friction of long plumbing runs. This ensures that the GPH (Gallons Per Hour) delivered at the top of your feature matches your design goals, preventing the common "trickle effect" seen with undersized equipment.

More Than Aesthetics: Aeration and System Synergy

While often chosen for visual impact, a stream pump serves a vital biological function. By moving large volumes of water and creating surface turbulence, it acts as a massive aeration system, increasing dissolved oxygen levels. It is important to note that many high-flow pond pumps can be used for waterfalls under 3–4 ft of lift, provided TDH is calculated correctly. However, for higher lifts, a specialized waterfall motor is essential to maintain flow density.

Expert Selection: The 1,200–1,500 GPH Formula

To achieve a professional "sheet" effect, you must match the width of your spillway to the pump's output at height:

• The Flow Rule: For a dense water curtain (approx. 1 inch thick), you need 100–125 GPH for every 1 inch of spillway width (equating to 1,200–1,500 GPH per foot).
• The Height Factor: Check the pump's flow chart carefully. A pump rated for 5,000 GPH at zero lift may only provide 3,000 GPH at a 10 ft elevation.
• Friction Loss: Account for plumbing resistance; every 10 feet of horizontal pipe adds friction equal to roughly 1 foot of vertical lift. Always size your pump with a 20% performance reserve.

Maintenance for High-Load Systems

Powerful flows require quality maintenance. To protect your high-flow pump investment, we provide:

• Replacement Impellers: Engineered for high-torque loads and continuous duty.
• Pump Vaults: We strongly recommend installing submersible models inside a pump vault to protect the intake from debris and simplify seasonal servicing.
• Maintenance Kits: Original seal and gasket sets to maintain factory-level pressure and efficiency.