
Savio Versatile filter
Savio Filters are designed for use in water garden applications where low maintenance and healthy pond ecology are desired. The Versatile Filter can discharge directly into the top of a waterfall or be placed remotely. Savio filters are designed to operate 24 hours a day throughout the season. Maximum pump flow for Versatile Filter™ is 3,000 GPH.
Assembly
Follow the instructions below to pre-assemble filter before
installation. Set aside internal components for later installation.
To attach inlet and bottom drain bulkheads put the gaskets and large side of the bulkheads on the inside of the filter housing. Install the lock nut on the outside with the smooth surface facing the filter housing. Lock nuts are reverse threaded - tighten using a counterclockwise motion.
Connect Plumbing
Apply teflon tape to threads on male pipe adapter. Attach threaded male pipe adapter to the bulkhead at the top of the filter. Apply primer and glue to PVC. While glue is still wet, attach PVC to the male adapter.
Install Versatile Filter
Instructions for attaching waterfall liner directly to front of the filter.
Pull liner up flush against face of filter. Hold liner flat against filter and find the center of hole. Carefully cut a hole to the size of outlet with a utility knife.
Attach bulkhead. Attach the outlet bulkhead with the gasket and large side of the bulkhead on the outside of the filter housing.
Remote Install / Pipe Discharge
For remote installations with pipe discharge it is critical to have an 8” minimum vertical drop at the filter outlet (see below). A maximum 10’ pipe run can be achieved with this plumbing configuration.
Start Ecosystem
Once the filter is installed and the pond is complete add beneficial bacteria to help establish and maintain the pond. The living bacteria develop on filter media, the waterfall bed and pond liner. They help control green water, chemical toxins and pond waste. After four days fish can be added.
It takes approximately four weeks for the bio-filter to establish. During that time feed lightly and do not add more fish to the original starter group until four weeks have passed and the water is tested for nitrite and ammonia.
Add bacteria monthly, when cleaning the filter, after water changes and when handling fish. The unique formulation helps break down waste, remove toxins, reduces maintenance and protects fish.
Maintenance
Filter cleaning is typically required two or three times a year if the filter is properly sized and the pond is not overstocked. Once the pond is established Savio Springflo Bio Filter Media™ (included) is coated with healthy living bacteria. Avoid over cleaning which shocks beneficial bacteria, interferes with filter performance and pond health. Do not use chlorinated water, hot water or chemicals. Do not allow the media to media to dry out during cleanings.
Filter Maintenance
- Shut off the pump.
- Remove the Livingponds Filter™ lid.
- Remove filter mat and gently rinse in a bucket of pond water.
- Reach in and vigorously shake the Springflo media to dislodge debris.
- Drain or empty dirty water from the filter. (A filter bottom drain is recommended for ease of draining.)
- Return the filter mat to the filter and put the lid into place.
- Turn on the pump and re-start system.
Winterization
Prepare for winterization when ice persistently develops on the pond. This generally occurs in mid to late November. Keep equipment winterized until late February or early March when water temperature consistently rises to 40º Fahrenheit or higher.
Fall Winterization procedure:
- Disconnect, clean and store submersible pump.
- Completely clean and drain filter and filter media.
- Drain any plumbing lines not buried below frost level.
- Use plumber’s heat tape on pipes and shut off valves. Insulate pump house and exterior pumps and valves.
Product Overview:
- Built-in settling chamber with bottom drain for easy cleaning
- 3 cu. Ft. filter chamber is filled with included Springflo Bio Filter Media providing 180 sq. ft. surface area
- Top filter media polishes water before gravity feeding it back to the pond
Other Information:
- Versatile model has a 2” FNPT outlet
- Measures: 22” diameter x 30.5” high
- FIVE YEAR WARRANTY

