Pond cleaning questions
How the referral works, timing for St. Louis ponds, and what to expect.
Is STL Pond Cleaning a pond company?
No. STL Pond Cleaning is a referral service operated by Thurr Solutions. When you call or send a request, we connect you with an independent local pond professional who does the work and sets the price.
Does it cost anything to request help?
No. Calling or sending a request is free, and you're under no obligation to hire anyone. Any price for the work comes from the pond pro, and you decide whether to go ahead.
What areas do you cover?
The St. Louis metro: St. Louis County, St. Charles County (including O'Fallon and St. Charles), Chesterfield, Kirkwood, Webster Groves, Ballwin, Wildwood, Florissant and the Illinois Metro East. If you're nearby but not listed, call anyway.
When is the best time for a pond cleanout?
Spring (around March to May) and fall (around October to November) are the most common times, because the fish are less active and you're either clearing out winter debris or getting ahead of leaf drop. Problems like a leak or a pump failure shouldn't wait for a season.
Who will actually come out?
An independent local pond professional. We'll tell you who before anyone visits, and you can ask them about their experience, insurance and pricing directly.
What should I have ready when I call?
Your ZIP code, the rough size of the pond, whether you have fish, what's going on, and a couple of photos if you can text them. That's enough to get started.
Do you sell pond supplies or fish?
No. This site only connects homeowners with pond service pros.
How often should a koi pond be fully cleaned out?
Many ponds only need a full drain-and-clean every year or two, with lighter cleanings in between. Heavily stocked koi ponds or ponds under trees may need it more often. The pro who looks at it can give you a better read.
Is a cleanout stressful for my fish?
Any move is some stress, which is why a careful cleanout holds fish in aerated tubs filled with their own pond water and brings them back slowly. Ask the pro how they handle fish before the visit.
When should I open my pond in St. Louis?
Most people start when the water warms into the 50s, which around St. Louis is often March or April, depending on the year. Booking a little ahead helps, because spring is a busy time for pond pros.
Can a spring opening and a full cleanout happen together?
Often, yes. Spring is a common time for a full cleanout, since the fish are still sluggish and the muck from fall is all there. Mention it when you call.
Do I need to keep a hole in the ice?
If you have fish, a small open area is generally recommended so gases can escape. A floating de-icer or aerator is the common way to do it. Don't smash the ice, because the shock can hurt fish.
When should I stop feeding my koi?
A common rule of thumb is to cut back as the water cools and stop when it stays below about 50°F, since fish can't digest well when it's cold. Your pond pro can give you specifics for your pond.
How can I tell evaporation from a leak?
On hot, windy summer days a pond can lose a surprising amount to evaporation and waterfall splash. If the loss is steady in mild weather, or the level always stops at the same spot, a leak is more likely.
Can a pond liner be patched?
Many EPDM and similar liners can be patched if the damage is small and the liner is still flexible. Very old or brittle liners are harder to repair. The pro will tell you what makes sense after seeing it.
How often should someone service my pond?
It depends on size, fish load and trees nearby. Some people want every-other-week visits in summer; others only want spring and fall service. Plans are set with the pond pro directly.
Do I sign a contract with STL Pond Cleaning?
No. We're a free referral service. Any plan, schedule and pricing is agreed directly between you and the local pond pro.
Still have a question?
Call and ask. It's free.