How do I clean my BioFalls filter?

Aquascape BioFalls Filters should be cleaned once per year, preferably during annual pond maintenance. Cleaning removes accumulated debris while helping preserve the beneficial bacteria responsible for biological filtration.

Important: Avoid cleaning BioFalls filter mats and biological filter media more than once per year under normal operating conditions. Excessive cleaning can reduce beneficial bacteria populations and affect water quality.

How do I clean my BioFalls filter?

1. Turn off the pond pump.
   • Disconnect power to the pump before beginning maintenance.
   • Allow water to stop flowing through the BioFalls.
2. Remove the filter media.
   • Carefully remove the filter mats and BioBalls biological filter media bag.
   • Keep the biological filter media wet with pond water during cleaning.
3. Rinse the filter mats.
   • Gently rinse the mats using water collected from the pond.
   • Remove accumulated debris without aggressively scrubbing or completely stripping the mats of beneficial bacteria.
4. Rinse the biological filter media.
   • Gently swish the BioBalls media bag in a container of pond water to remove loose debris.
   • Avoid excessive cleaning that could disturb beneficial bacteria colonies.
5. Remove debris from the BioFalls.
   • Remove accumulated sludge, leaves, and other debris from inside the filter.
   • If an optional BioFalls drain kit is installed, use it to assist with draining and cleaning.
6. Reinstall the filter media.
   • Return the filter mats to their original position on the filter support rack.
   • Reinstall the BioBalls media bag above the filter mats.
   • Make sure all components are properly positioned.
7. Restart the pond pump.
   • Restore power to the pump.
   • Verify that water flows properly through the BioFalls and over the waterfall spillway.

What should I avoid when cleaning my BioFalls?

• Do not use chlorinated tap water to rinse biological filter media.
• Do not use soap, detergents, bleach, or household cleaning chemicals.
• Do not aggressively scrub the BioBalls or filter mats.
• Do not replace biological filter media simply because it appears discolored.
• Do not allow biological filter media to dry out during maintenance.

When should I replace the BioFalls filter mats?

BioFalls filter mats are reusable and do not need to be replaced annually.

Replace the mats when they begin to tear, deteriorate, or fall apart after several years of use.

Note: BioFalls Filters are designed for minimal maintenance when used with proper prefiltration, such as an Aquascape Signature Series Skimmer, which removes larger debris before water reaches the BioFalls.