Can You Keep a Pond Running in Winter? Here’s What You Need to Know

Many pond owners in Southern Ontario wonder if their water feature needs to be shut down the moment the cold weather arrives. The good news? You can keep your pond running all winter long - it just takes a little preparation and the right equipment.

What Happens to a Pond in Winter

As temperatures drop, your pond’s ecosystem naturally slows down:

• Fish enter a state of torpor (similar to hibernation).

• Aquatic plants die back or go dormant.

• Biological filtration becomes less active.

That doesn’t mean you have to turn everything off. With proper planning, your pond can continue running, and even become a magical focal point in the colder months.

Benefits of Running Your Pond Through Winter

There are some big advantages to keeping things flowing:

• Winter Beauty – Flowing waterfalls create dramatic icicles, frozen layers, and moving water that turn your backyard into a winter wonderland.

• Wildlife Access – Birds, squirrels, and other wildlife benefit from access to fresh water when everything else is frozen.

• Healthier Fish – Moving water helps maintain oxygen levels, reduces harmful gas buildup, and prevents the pond from freezing over completely.

What You’ll Need to Keep Your Pond Running

To safely operate your pond year-round in Ontario, here are the essentials:

• De-icer – Keeps a small hole open in the ice for gas exchange.

• Aerator – Adds oxygen to the water and supports fish health in cold months.

• Make sure you have access to water over the winter to top up the pond if needs be. 

• Make sure you can access your pump to disconnect so water can drain from the plumbing if the power goes out or have a generator handy.

• Winter-Ready Pump – Ensure your pump is rated for year-round use and can handle freezing temperatures. The pumps at Niagara Pond and Garden are!

Prefer to Shut It Down? We Can Help

If you’d rather let your pond hibernate, that’s perfectly fine too. At Niagara Waterscapes, we offer fall pond shutdowns and winterizing services to prepare your pond for the season - protecting your fish, equipment, and ecosystem so it’s ready to thrive again in spring.

Whether you keep your pond running or shut it down, the key is preparation. With the right setup, your water feature can bring beauty and life to your backyard all year long.

📍 Need supplies or advice? Visit Niagara Pond & Garden in Grimsby for de-icers, aerators, pumps, and expert support.