AquaForte EconoBead 60 Complete System (sieve, pump, UVC, EB60)

AquaForte EconoBead 60 Complete System with DM-Vario Pump

A complete AquaForte filtration installation, not just the bead vessel. This pre-assembled pallet combines sieve pre-filtration, a bypass-equipped EB60 bead filter, a matched pond pump and UV-C clarification in one organised package.

The AquaForte EconoBead 60 Complete System with DM-Vario Pump is intended for pond keepers who want the major filtration components selected, plumbed and mounted together before the system reaches the pond. AquaForte rates this configuration for ponds up to approximately 36,000 litres (36 m³). That figure is a manufacturer maximum rather than a promise for every pond, so fish load, feeding, sunlight, debris and maintenance all need to be considered when choosing the final size.

What is included on the complete filter pallet?

• AquaForte EB60 EconoBead filter with bypass
• elevated AquaForte MidiSieve for removing heavier solids before the bead stage
• 75 watt Power Plus UV-C to help control green water caused by free-floating algae
• DM-Vario 20,000 pond pump
• Connecting pipework, fittings and a non-return valve
• Pre-assembly on a rigid plastic pallet for a neater filter-bay installation

The main on-site connections are still required between the pond and the pallet, the filtered-water return and the waste line. Allow proper working space around the installation; a bead filter that is squeezed into an inaccessible corner soon becomes frustrating to backwash and service.

How the sieve, bead filter and UV-C work together

The sieve is important because it intercepts leaves, fish waste and other larger solids before they are pushed into the closed bead vessel. This reduces the burden on the bead pack and makes routine cleaning more manageable. Inside the EconoBead, the floating media provides both fine mechanical capture and a large colonisation area for nitrifying bacteria.

The UV-C is a separate part of the process. It exposes passing pond water to ultraviolet light to help control the single-celled algae responsible for green water. It does not replace mechanical or biological filtration, and clear water is not automatically safe water, so ammonia, nitrite, pH and KH should still be tested while a new filter matures.

Realistic pond sizing

AquaForte’s approximate maximum for this system is approximately 36,000 litres (36 m³). For a lightly stocked ornamental pond that may be a useful starting point. A heavily fed koi pond produces far more solid and dissolved waste, so we normally prefer to leave sensible filtration headroom instead of sizing to the absolute headline limit.

When you ask us to help size one of these systems, the useful information is the true pond volume, number and approximate size of fish, daily food quantity in summer, bottom-drain and skimmer arrangement, pipe sizes, return height and the space available for maintenance. Those details tell us much more than pond volume alone.

Pump choice and real delivered flow

This version uses the electronically adjustable DM-Vario 20,000. It is the straightforward choice when you want to tune the circulation rate without moving to the Blue Eco pump option. Final delivered flow will still depend on the bead filter, UV, pipe bore, bends and return height.

Maximum pump flow is measured with little or no resistance. Once water is travelling through pipe, valves, the bead vessel, UV-C and a raised return, the delivered flow will be lower. Use the largest sensible pipe bore, avoid unnecessary restrictions and plan isolation valves so the pump and UV-C can be serviced without draining the whole system.

Cleaning and seasonal maintenance

1. Inspect and rinse the sieve screen before accumulated debris restricts flow.
2. Backwash and rinse the EconoBead through its multiport valve when pressure or flow indicates that waste is building up.
3. Check the pump strainer and impeller, especially after periods of leaf fall or blanket-weed treatment.
4. Clean the UV-C quartz sleeve and replace the lamp at the interval recommended for the fitted unit.
5. Continue testing ammonia and nitrite after installation; biological media needs time to mature.

Do not use the multiport valve while the pump is running. Switch the pump off before changing valve position, then follow the supplied AquaForte cleaning sequence.

Our practical view before you order

This is a substantial filter purchase, and we would rather check the layout properly than sell it from the pond-volume figure alone. The appeal of the complete pallet is that the major components arrive as one coordinated installation. It still needs correct levels, unrestricted feeds, a suitable return and an accessible waste route to work as intended.

If you already own some of the equipment, compare the standalone AquaForte EconoBead 60 before paying for a full pallet. If you want a larger or alternative complete arrangement, compare the smaller EB50 complete system and EB60 complete system with Blue Eco 320 pump.

Useful installation sections

• Compare bead filters
• Compare pond filter pumps
• Pond UV clarifiers and sterilisers
• Pressure pipe, valves and pond fittings
• Read our pressurised pond filter guide

Frequently asked questions

Does the system arrive fully ready to run?

The principal filter components are mounted and connected on the pallet. The pond feed, filtered return, waste line and electrical installation still have to be completed on site.

Is the stated pond capacity suitable for a heavily stocked koi pond?

Not automatically. The figure is an approximate manufacturer maximum. Heavy koi stocking and feeding may justify a larger system or additional biological capacity.

Does the bead filter remove green water?

The bead filter captures solids and supports biological filtration. The included UV-C is the component intended to help control the suspended algae that cause green water.

Can the system be installed above pond level?

The final levels depend on the gravity-fed sieve and the intended pipe layout. Check the installation drawing before building the filter bay or ordering pipework.

Why is pre-filtration useful before a bead filter?

A sieve removes larger waste early. This reduces the organic load entering the bead vessel and can make backwashing quicker and more predictable.

How often will the EconoBead need backwashing?

There is no single interval. It varies with stocking, feeding, season and incoming debris. Monitor flow and pressure and clean before the filter becomes heavily restricted.

Can I change the pump for another model?

Because this is a pre-assembled package, any substitution should be checked for hydraulic performance, connections, controls and warranty implications before ordering.

Can you help check the system against my pond?

Yes. Send us the pond volume, fish load, existing bottom drains and skimmers, pipe sizes, return height and a simple filter-bay sketch so we can give more useful guidance.