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When deep cleaning your koi pond, transfer fish to a clean, uncontaminated container at least one foot deep, like a large bucket, tub, or kiddie pond. Fill the container with their existing pond water to avoid shocking them, and place the container in full or partial shade. When it’s time to reintroduce them into the pond, slowly add the new water to the container before adding the fish and container water back into the pond.

How many fish can call your pond home depends on the volume of the pond and the fish size. Your pond's filtration system also influences the number of fish that will thrive in a pond. A general rule of thumb is to have 1 inch of fish for every square foot in a pond that's 2 feet deep. Another rule of thumb you can follow is to have one koi fish for every 200 gallons of water or two goldfish for every 200 gallons.

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.

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.