Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Sorry guys, this is not really an AP question, more like a pond thing.

I am trying to retrofit a "dome" or a cover on top of an existing bottom drain. The current one as I can see at the bottom of my concrete pond is a 12" square opening with grate cover, which eventually connected to a 2" pipe. Pond was a spa that came with the house so no idea with the design etc.,

I am thinking to put a round dome on top if it, like using a 14" or 16" terra cotta saucer from some big pots. Turn the saucer upside down and glue a few smaller saucer underneath so when sitting, the big saucer will be say an inch off and on top of the grate?

Questions:

1. Should the saucer be same size, say 14" or bigger?
2. How much distance between the saucer and the grate? an inch? or less?
3. How much will this help? As it, I can debris in the bottom that the drain just isn't picking up.

Thanks

To cover corner to corner you'll need 17". If you're intention is to prevent muck from clogging the 2" drain pipe while letting the water through I'd suggest getting a big saucer 18" inside diameter and some perforated metal or heavy plastic 4"high x 58"long x 5/16 - 3/8"dia holes, roll it around join the over lapping ends and silicon it to the inside of the saucer.
Even if you let the muck build up to the to top there'll be enough filtration to allow water to escape down the drain.