
Bottom drains today are used in conjunction normally with a gravity fed filter systems, but more people are using them with pump fed systems. However, which ever way you decide,, either way is far better than not having a drain installed at all. A chamber of filter brushes holding back debris in a pumped system cannot compare to a bottom drain working in conjunction with a vortex settlement.
Oxygen is a vital componant of a healthy pond, not only does an aerated bottom drain add much need oxygen into the pond, they can also make the drain up to 30% more efficient in pulling the solid waste into the drain.