Should a koi pond be in the sun or shade?

• <div><p>Koi fish should be in the shade and can’t be directly exposed to the sun. Consider building your koi pond in a shaded spot or hanging an awning over the top to control the amount of sunlight coming in. Learn <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-develop-landscaping-plan-your-yard.htm">how to design a landscape</a> properly.</p></div>

How often should pond water be changed?

• <div><p>Pond water should be changed approximately once a week. When you change it, change around 10% to15% of the water. It’s important to monitor the quality of your pond water as this will determine if it needs to be changed more often, or if you should be changing more or less than 15% of it when you do so.</p></div>

How thick of a pond liner do I need?

• <div><p>In addition to length and width, pond liners also come in various thickness levels. Thickness is measured in mils, a unit of measurement equal to one-thousandth of an inch, with most pond liners ranging from 15 to 60 mils in thickness. The smaller the number, the thinner (and weaker) the liner. To prevent rips and tears, it’s best to choose a pond liner that’s at least 30 mils thick.</p></div>

Should a water feature be in the sun or shade?

• <div><p>Placing your water feature in direct sun can speed up evaporation, leading to pump damage and algae growth. Shade or partial shade serves as the ideal location for most water features—just watch out for tree and plant debris that may fall in and clog the pump. </p></div>

When should I turn my pond pump off for the winter?

• <div><p>When deciding whether or not to turn off your pump, you should consider your area’s climate and the aquatic life in your pond. If you live in an area with freezing winter temperatures and don’t have any wildlife, keeping your pump on could damage it. If you have aquatic life but live in a colder climate, you might consider keeping your pump running and adding a pond heater.</p></div>

Top 10 Best Fountain pros in Bishopville, MD

Q: Should a koi pond be in the sun or shade?

• <div><p>Koi fish should be in the shade and can&rsquo;t be directly exposed to the sun. Consider building your koi pond in a shaded spot or hanging an awning over the top to control the amount of sunlight coming in. Learn <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-develop-landscaping-plan-your-yard.htm">how to design a landscape</a> properly.</p></div>

Find Fountain pros in Bishopville

First State Ponds and Fountains

4.73(

)

•Approved Pro

First State Ponds and Fountains

4.73(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

101 local quotes requested

Our mission is to be a provider that brings back the personal touch with our customers. We will build a relationship that will last a lifetime after you see our quality work. As a locally owned and operated business we feel invested in our clients and constantly strive for customer satisfaction. We won't leave until the job is done right! Call or click to schedule an estimate today!

"I recently had the pleasure of working with Erik from First State Ponds, and I can't recommend him enough. Erik traveled all the way from Delaware to Maryland to service my pond, which was having persistent issues with murky water. Before connecting with Erik, I had already been advised by another company to purchase a specific filter and pump. Thankfully, I found First State Ponds just in time. Erik took the time to explain that while the recommended filter might clear my water, it would require constant maintenance. He suggested a different filter and a stronger pump, but he was also willing to install the one I had already purchased if I preferred. After some consideration, I decided to take his advice and returned the original filter to have him install his recommended system. After struggling with murky water all summer, l admit, I was a bit skeptical. I wasn't sure that anything would truly work. But Erik's recommendation exceeded even his own predictions. Within just two days, the water was crystal clear! I didn't really think that was possible. There were a few challenges during installation and I admit this was 100% due to a few things I had set up prior to meeting Erik. But he handled them seamlessly, troubleshooting as needed. For the issues that couldn't be addressed that day, Erik provided me with helpful suggestions on how to finish the job myself. While I initially found the price a little high, after seeing the fantastic results, answering my many questions (including a few the following day), and delivering on everything he promised, I can confidently say he earned every cent. If you're looking for quality service, prompt responses, and impressive results, I highly recommend First State Ponds. Erik and his team are truly top-notch."

Q S on September 2025

"I recently had the pleasure of working with Erik from First State Ponds, and I can't recommend him enough. Erik traveled all the way from Delaware to Maryland to service my pond, which was having persistent issues with murky water. Before connecting with Erik, I had already been advised by another company to purchase a specific filter and pump. Thankfully, I found First State Ponds just in time. Erik took the time to explain that while the recommended filter might clear my water, it would require constant maintenance. He suggested a different filter and a stronger pump, but he was also willing to install the one I had already purchased if I preferred. After some consideration, I decided to take his advice and returned the original filter to have him install his recommended system. After struggling with murky water all summer, l admit, I was a bit skeptical. I wasn't sure that anything would truly work. But Erik's recommendation exceeded even his own predictions. Within just two days, the water was crystal clear! I didn't really think that was possible. There were a few challenges during installation and I admit this was 100% due to a few things I had set up prior to meeting Erik. But he handled them seamlessly, troubleshooting as needed. For the issues that couldn't be addressed that day, Erik provided me with helpful suggestions on how to finish the job myself. While I initially found the price a little high, after seeing the fantastic results, answering my many questions (including a few the following day), and delivering on everything he promised, I can confidently say he earned every cent. If you're looking for quality service, prompt responses, and impressive results, I highly recommend First State Ponds. Erik and his team are truly top-notch."

Q S on September 2025