Should I keep my waterfall going all year?

[cherryjerry]

In July we built two ponds linked by a waterfall, installed an ultraviolet filter and pump, let it run for two months and then put Shubunkins and Sarasa Comet fish in the lower pond. I have two questions
1. Should we leave the pump and waterfall on all year?
2. Should we be feeding the fish a small amount as it is still a new pond?

[hammerman]

Ok....if the pump is not feeding a filter system (usually a square box with sponges and other plastic media in), i would turn the waterfall off. The UV can be turned off around October time and put back on in March.

If you leave a waterfall running, you are exposing more water to chilly winds and low temperatures which can chill the water very quickly.

If you have a filter system, keep it running (but turn the UV off still) as this will keep enough bacteria going to break down any fish waste.

I feed my koi throughout winter....if the fish want to feed, let them !!!...it keeps their metabolism ticking over and tops up those fat reserves for times when it might be needed. Just a small handful once a day should be fine...remove any uneaten food after a couple of hours if poss.

Hope this helps a bit.