OASE BioSmart 5000 Gravity Pond Filter System
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Description
The OASE BioSmart 5000 (SKU 56929) is a high-capacity external gravity pond filter rated for ponds up to 5,000 gallons, handling up to 2,700 GPH from a compatible pond pump. Positioned outside the pond at water level, filtered water returns by gravity — no return pump required. Three zones of high-surface-area filter foams (4 pads total: 1× Red, 2× Blue, 1× Green) provide multi-stage mechanical and biological filtration, converting harmful ammonia and nitrite to nitrate through established beneficial bacteria colonies.
Built-in features include a cleaning indicator, water thermometer, squeeze-clean handles that clean foams without removal, and a 2" sludge drain for quick waste flushing. Venturi inlets allow optional aeration via the AquaOxy 450 pump. Backed by a 3-year warranty and eligible for the OASE Clear Water Guarantee when paired with a compatible pump and Vitronic UV clarifier.
Pond Capacity Ratings
| Application | Max Pond Volume | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Decorative / No Fish | 5,000 gallons | Ornamental ponds, water gardens, pondless features |
| Fish Stock (goldfish) | 2,500 gallons | Moderate stocking density |
| Koi Pond | 1,250 gallons | Koi or heavily stocked ponds; add UV for best results |
Key Features & Benefits
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| SKU | 56929 |
| Max Flow Rate | 2,700 GPH |
| Min Recommended Flow | 1,600 GPH |
| Outlet Connection | 3” (via included 3” Sch40 outlet adapter) |
| Inlet Connection | 1.5” threaded female (2 inlets) |
| Intake Tubing Sizes | 3/4”, 1”, 1.25”, 1.5” (metric step fittings included) |
| Sludge Drain | 2” |
| Filter Foams (4 total) | 1× Red (coarse), 2× Blue (medium), 1× Green (fine) |
| Dimensions (L × W × H) | 22” × 22” × 16” |
| Weight | 12.1 lbs |
| UV Clarifier | NOT included — Vitronic UVC required separately |
| Installation | External, non-submersible — positioned outside/beside pond |
| Built-in Features | Water thermometer + pollution/cleaning indicator + Venturi aeration inlets |
| Not Approved For | Swimming pools or saltwater; NOT submersible |
| Recommended Pump | AquaMax Eco Classic 1900 or Eco Premium 2500 (any pump 1,600–2,700 GPH) |
| Clear Water Guarantee | Eligible with proper pump + Vitronic UV clarifier |
| Warranty | 3 years |
OASE BioSmart Family
| Model | SKU | Max Flow | No-Fish Cap. | Koi Cap. | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BioSmart 5000 ← This | 56929 | 2,700 GPH | 5,000 gal | 1,250 gal | 22”×22”×16” |
| BioSmart 10000 | 56930 | 4,000 GPH | 10,000 gal | 2,500 gal | 26”×26”×22” |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum pond capacity for the OASE BioSmart 5000?
The OASE BioSmart 5000 (SKU 56929) is rated for:
- Decorative ponds (no fish): up to 5,000 gallons
- Fish stock (goldfish): up to 2,500 gallons
- Koi ponds: up to 1,250 gallons
These ratings assume continuous 24-hour operation with minimum 18-inch pond depth and maximum recommended flow circulated through the filter. For ponds above these capacities, step up to the BioSmart 10000 (SKU 56930).
How do the cleaning handles and indicator simplify maintenance?
The BioSmart 5000 includes a built-in cleaning indicator that monitors debris levels inside the filter and signals when it’s time to clean. When maintenance is required:
- Pull up on the cleaning handles to compress all four foam pads simultaneously, squeezing trapped sludge into the filter base chamber
- Open the 2” sludge drain to flush accumulated waste out without opening the filter lid or touching the foams
- Replace the lid, close the drain, and resume normal operation
The entire process takes under 5 minutes with no tools and no contact with dirty filter media. Annual deeper cleaning is also possible by removing the lid using the quick-release clips.
Which pump and UV are compatible with the BioSmart 5000?
For optimal performance and Clear Water Guarantee eligibility, OASE recommends:
- Pump: AquaMax Eco Classic 1900 or AquaMax Eco Premium 2500 — any pump in the 1,600–2,700 GPH range at your installation head height
- UV Clarifier: Vitronic 18W UVC Clarifier (sold separately) — mounts directly to the filter inlet for maximum algae-control efficiency
The Vitronic UV clarifier is required for green water (suspended algae) control and for OASE Clear Water Guarantee eligibility. Without UV, the BioSmart 5000 provides excellent biological and mechanical filtration but will not eliminate suspended algae from green-water conditions.
Why are there different colors of filter foams?
The BioSmart 5000 includes four foam pads in three densities:
- 1× Red foam (coarse) — first zone; traps large debris and particulates, slowing water velocity for initial settling
- 2× Blue foam (medium) — middle zones; provides high-surface-area colonization for nitrifying bacteria converting ammonia to nitrite and nitrite to nitrate
- 1× Green foam (fine) — final zone; polishing stage trapping fine particulates, supporting a diverse bacterial community
Each density zone creates a different microenvironment that supports specific bacteria populations responsible for different stages of the nitrogen cycle. Replacement foams are available separately: Blue #40975, Green #40976, Red #40974.
Can the BioSmart 5000 be partially buried for better concealment?
The BioSmart 5000’s lower canister can be recessed into the ground for a more discreet installation, provided these critical requirements are met:
- The outlet must remain higher than the pond water surface at all times — gravity return only works when filtered water exits above the pond level
- The cleaning handles, indicator windows, and thermometer must remain accessible without excavation
- The sludge drain must be reachable for periodic waste flushing
Plan burial depth carefully to preserve full maintenance access. Unlike the OASE BioPress pressurized filters, the BioSmart cannot be fully buried or pressurized.
Does this filter include a thermometer and water level indicator?
Yes. The OASE BioSmart 5000 includes two built-in monitoring features directly on the filter body:
- Water temperature gauge — reads the actual water temperature flowing through the filter, allowing you to accurately determine when to start spring feeding (above 50°F/10°C) and stop fall feeding (below 50°F)
- Pollution / cleaning indicator — monitors filter load and signals when foams need cleaning, removing guesswork from your maintenance schedule
Both indicators are readable from outside the filter without opening the lid or interrupting filtration.
Why Buy from Pond Pro Direct?
- Authentic OASE products with full 3-year warranty
- Expert filtration system guidance — call or text (765) 508-4352, Mon–Fri 9am–5pm EST
- Free shipping on all orders
- Price match guarantee on identical products
- Trusted by pond professionals and homeowners
Price Match
At Pond Pro Direct, we want you to shop with confidence, knowing you’re always getting a good deal.
We will match or beat the lowest online price on its products.
If you find a lower price for any products on our store, we will beat it by $50 for products listed over $2000. In order to be eligible, you must provide proof, whether a screenshot, invoice, email, etc. of the lower offer.
Please note that this does not apply to every product in the store, so reach out via email or chat for confirmation before purchasing.
For the policy to apply, simply send us a screenshot, link, or any other proof of the lower price.
For more information, please check out Price Match Policy Page
Shipping & Delivery
Order Processing
Orders are processed within 1–5 business days, depending on product type, brand, and fulfillment method. Products sold on Pond Pro Direct ship directly from manufacturers or authorized distribution partners and do not ship from a single centralized warehouse.
Processing times may vary by brand, item type, fulfillment method, and whether an item is made to order or ships via freight.
Order Confirmation
After placing your order, you will receive an order confirmation email confirming that we have received your order and pre-authorized your payment method.
Once your order is received, we contact the manufacturer or distribution partner to confirm availability and fulfillment timelines.
- If an item is unavailable or on backorder, we will notify you by email and void the pre-authorization.
- If the item is available, the payment will be processed and the order submitted for shipment.
Order Shipment
If your order is in stock and payment is processed, it will typically ship within 6–13 business days. Once your order ships, tracking information (when available) will be sent to the email address provided at checkout.
If you do not receive shipping confirmation within 6 business days, please contact us at support@pondprodirect.com.
Shipping Destinations
At this time, we primarily ship within the United States. Some products may be available for shipment to Canada. If the website allows checkout and accepts your shipping address, the product is eligible for delivery to that location.
Changing Your Shipping Address
Address changes after an order has been processed or shipped may result in delays or additional carrier fees. Any carrier charges associated with address changes are the responsibility of the customer.
Shipping Times
All shipping times are estimates only and not guarantees.
- Typical handling time: 1–5 business days
- Typical transit time after shipment: 5–8 business days
- Estimated delivery window: 6–13 business days
Delivery timelines may vary based on brand, item type, production status, freight requirements, and carrier availability.
If an order is cancelled after it has been processed or shipped, the customer may be responsible for applicable shipping charges, freight fees, carrier return fees, and warehouse handling costs, where applicable.
Shipping Options
Available shipping options vary by product and location.
Our standard Curbside Delivery option is provided at no additional cost where applicable and delivers the item to the curbside or driveway of the delivery address.
Additional options, such as Threshold Delivery or White Glove Delivery, may be available for select products and locations.
For full details regarding freight delivery, inspection requirements, liftgate service, returns, and customer responsibilities, please review our full Shipping Policy page.
Returns & Refunds
Cancellations & Refunds
Orders may be canceled free of charge before shipment, unless the item is classified as Custom or Made-to-Order (see below).
If you have questions about your order, please contact us at support@pondprodirect.com or call (765) 508-4352 during business hours.
Cancellations (Before Order Ships)
If you need to cancel an order before it ships, please contact us as soon as possible. Orders canceled prior to shipment are eligible for a full refund.
You can reach our team by phone at (765) 508-4352, via live chat on our website, or by email at support@pondprodirect.com.
Cancellations (After Order Ships)
Once an order has shipped or entered fulfillment, it may no longer be eligible for cancellation. If you no longer wish to keep the item, you must wait until delivery and then request a return.
A Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) is required before returning any item.
Custom or Made-to-Order Items
Custom or made-to-order products are produced specifically for your order and cannot be canceled or refunded once production has begun, except in cases of defect or error.
Product pages will clearly indicate when an item is custom or made-to-order. If you are unsure whether an item falls into this category, please contact us before placing your order.
Returns & Refunds
Returns are subject to the following conditions:
- Customers have 30 days from delivery to request a return, unless otherwise stated on the product page or by manufacturer policy
- Items must be unused, uninstalled, and in original packaging
- An RMA is required prior to returning any item
Because we ship products directly from manufacturers, return eligibility may vary by brand. If a manufacturer does not permit returns on a specific product, we may be unable to accept the return. Please contact us if you would like confirmation of return eligibility for a specific item.
Fees & Shipping Costs
- Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer unless the item is defective or shipped in error
- Freight / LTL shipments may incur higher return shipping costs due to carrier fees
- Approved returns of non-defective items may be subject to a restocking fee of up to 25%
- Original outbound shipping charges are non-refundable
If you are exchanging an item rather than returning it outright, we may be able to assist with some costs depending on the product and manufacturer.
For full details, including freight deliveries, damage reporting requirements, and manufacturer-specific terms, please review our complete Return and Refund Policy
