How to Build a Pond Filter System

 A beautiful water garden often means having a natural pond filled with lovely aquatic plants and possibly even fish and other water loving animals. These ponds can contribute a healthy supply of aerated water to the ecosystem. Pond filtration is a critical element to keeping the system working perfectly.

• Calculate the exact size of the installed pond. These measurements will determine the size and degree of filtration needed. Use a flexible measuring device, such as a rope or hose, to lie down across the pond to measure its area.

• Build in any natural water flow areas or devices, such as waterfalls and streams. These devices will assist the filter to move the mater through the ecosystem more efficiently and naturally.

• Consider mechanical filtration that collects debris and contaminants in a filter. Biological filters use bacteria to breakdown any contaminants, and some filters utilize unltraviolet light to consolidate algae and impurities.

• Lay down gravel or foam layers that encourage good bacteria colonies to grow and handle the break down of fish waste and organic matter.

• Determine the maximum flow rate of the filtration method used. Faster flow rates can actually harm the rate at which the healthy bacteria colonies grow.

• Place the pond filter in the pond or outside of the pond area. The filter should always be above the maximum water level of the pond for best flow. Put a pipe in place to direct the wastewater from the pond to another area a good distance from the pond.

How to Build a Karel Drbal Pyramid

 In 1959, a Czech radio engineer named Karel Drbal patented the Cheops Pyramid razor sharpener. He found that if you put razor blades in a pyramid with the sharp edge lying in line with the north to south magnetic lines, the edge would remain sharper longer. The patent was brought to the United States where plastic Karel Drbal pyramids were sold to improve meditation, plant growth and food preservation.

Step
1
Secure material to make the pyramid. You can use any dielectric material. Dielectric material is one that doesn't conduct electricity like cardboard, plastic or hard paper. You can use PVC poles and plastic sheeting if the Karel Drbal pyramid you're building is a greenhouse.

Step
2
Draw a 3 1/2-inch line. Mark one side "A" and one "B." On the "A" end of the line place the point of a compass. Place the pencil part of the compass on the "B" end of the line and draw a circle.

Step
3
Keep the compass open the same distance and place the metal tip on the b mark and make a circle. Where the two circles intersect at the top, label it "C."

Step
4
Use a straight edge to draw a straight line from point a to point "C." Do the same from point "B" to point "C." You've just created an equilateral triangle that is scaled to the Karel Drbal pyramid side. Next, create a square that's 3 1/2 inches on each side.

Step
5
Tape the base of one triangle to one side of square. Do the same for the other three. Fold the sides individually toward the center to create a crease on the tape.

Step
6
Bring each side up and tape together to form the pyramid. You can cut an opening in one side prior to taping it to the base. This is where you can insert razor blades for sharpening just as Karel Drbal did in his pyramid.

Step
7
Experiment by creating a 7-inch base. Cut the opening at the base of one of the sides. Make the opening large enough to put a glass of water. Face an uncut side north and allow the water to sit for two days. Water your house plants with it and see if it improves their growth. Use the paper models for a template of other material.

Step
8
Convert the dimensions to a larger pyramid. Use PVC pipe and elbows to construct a larger version of the pyramid. Use the same proportions to do this. Construct one face to the north and cover it with plastic sheeting. Use adhesive to keep the plastic attached.