Matala BioSteps Pro Kit – Multi-Stage Pond Filter System for Ponds up to 3,000 Gallons
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Description
The Matala BioSteps Pro Kit (SKU 31344) is a complete gravity-return pond filtration package for water gardens up to 2,000 gallons or koi ponds up to 1,000 gallons. The Pro Kit is the BioSteps Plus Kit upgraded with a 16-watt EZClear UV Clarifier — adding green water elimination to the biological and mechanical filtration provided by the BioSteps-II filter housing. The kit includes the BioSteps-II filter with 6 Matala Progressive Filtration mats (200 sq ft surface area), the MF-1100EZ Magna-Flow submersible pump with EZBio 11 Plus Prefilter (4” × 8” green mesh), a diverter valve for flow control, and 3/4” × 25 ft kink-free hose with all fittings. Optimal flow through the BioSteps is 800–900 GPH at 3 ft of head — which is exactly what the MF-1100EZ delivers at that head height. Filter housing dimensions: 20”L × 15”W × 23”H, constructed from automotive-grade plastic for cold and hot climate operation.
What’s Included in the BioSteps Pro Kit?
- BioSteps-II Filter Housing — the core filter tank with swivel inlet fitting (3/4”, 1”, 1-1/4”, 1.5” barb sizes), 1.5” or 2” outlet, sloped bottom with sludge drain plug, and automotive-grade plastic construction rated for cold and hot climates. Dimensions: 20”L × 15”W × 23”H.
- 6 Matala Progressive Filtration Mats — 2 Green (coarse), 2 Blue (medium), 2 Gray (fine) in step-wise density sequence. 200 sq ft of total surface area for beneficial bacteria colonization. The density sequence captures large solids first, protecting finer media downstream and creating distinct bacterial communities at each stage.
- 16W EZClear UV Clarifier — mounts inside the BioSteps for convenient, integrated installation. Uses a 16-watt Phillips UV lamp (9,000-hour rated life; annual replacement recommended). Electronic ballast tuned to the 16W lamp. Clear threaded cap allows visual lamp verification without opening the filter.
- MF-1100EZ Magna-Flow Submersible Pump — mag-drive pump with maximum flow of 1,100 GPH; delivers approximately 900 GPH at 3 ft of head, which is the ideal flow rate for the BioSteps filter. 18 ft cord, 16 gauge, 3-prong grounded, 110V.
- EZBio 11 Plus Prefilter — 4” diameter × 8” long green coarse mesh housing that mounts directly on the pump intake. Protects the pump impeller from clogging while allowing fine particles to pass through to the BioSteps filter for biological treatment.
- Diverter Valve — fine-tunes pump flow to the BioSteps filter. Can also divert a portion of flow to a separate jet or fountain without bypassing the filter entirely.
- 3/4” × 25 ft kink-free hose with hose clamps for pump-to-filter connection.
- All connectors and fittings for quick installation.
How the BioSteps Gravity-Return System Works
- Step 1 — Pump intake: The MF-1100EZ pump, fitted with the EZBio 11 Plus Prefilter, sits submerged in the pond and draws water through the coarse mesh prefilter. The prefilter catches larger debris while allowing fine particles and algae to pass through to the filter for biological treatment.
- Step 2 — UV clarification: Water entering the BioSteps housing passes through the integrated 16W EZClear UV clarifier, which clumps single-cell algae (green water) before it reaches the filter mats, making it easier for the mechanical mats to capture.
- Step 3 — Progressive filtration: Water flows through 6 Matala mats in density sequence — Green (coarse) captures large debris, Blue (medium) intercepts finer particles, Gray (fine) polishes the water. Each density layer also colonizes a distinct community of beneficial nitrifying bacteria, providing biological processing of ammonia and nitrite.
- Step 4 — Gravity return: Filtered, clarified water exits through the 1.5” or 2” outlet and flows back to the pond by gravity. The filter housing must be installed above the pond water surface for this gravity return to function.
- Diverter valve: The included diverter valve allows you to reduce pump output to the optimal 800–900 GPH range if your pump location results in less than 3 ft of head, or divert a portion of flow to a separate fountain or jet feature.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| SKU | 31344 / BSTPPro-MT |
| Pond (Water Garden) | Up to 2,000 gallons |
| Pond (Koi) | Up to 1,000 gallons |
| Optimal Flow Rate | 800–900 GPH |
| Max Pump Flow (MF-1100EZ) | 1,100 GPH |
| UV Clarifier | 16W EZClear (Phillips lamp, 9,000 hr life) |
| Filter Media | 6 Matala mats: 2 Green + 2 Blue + 2 Gray | 200 sq ft surface area |
| Inlet | Swivel fitting — 3/4”, 1”, 1-1/4”, 1.5” barb sizes |
| Outlet | 1.5” or 2” pipe fitting (gravity return to pond) |
| Waterfall Spillway | Not included — see Premium Kit (31368) |
| Dimensions (filter) | 20”L × 15”W × 23”H |
| Housing Material | Automotive-grade plastic (cold and hot climate rated) |
| Installation | Gravity return — filter must be elevated above pond waterline |
| Pump Cord | 18 ft, 16 gauge, 3-prong grounded, 110V |
| Hose | 3/4” × 25 ft kink-free (with hose clamps) |
| Not For | Swimming pools or salt water |
| Warranty | [Verify with Matala] |
BioSteps Kit Family — Choose Your Tier
All BioSteps kits use the same BioSteps-II filter housing with 6 Matala Progressive Filtration mats (200 sq ft), MF-1100EZ pump, 3/4”×25 ft hose, and swivel inlet fitting. The kits differ only in included accessories.
| Kit | Filter + Pump + Hose | UV Clarifier | Waterfall Spillway | Pond (Water Garden) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BioSteps Plus | Included | — | — | 2,000 gal |
| BioSteps Plus-WF | Included | — | Included | 2,000 gal |
| BioSteps Pro (31344) — this | Included | 16W EZClear | — | 2,000 gal |
| BioSteps Premium (31368) | Included | 16W EZClear | Included | 2,000 gal |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the Matala BioSteps Pro Kit?
The BioSteps Pro Kit (SKU 31344) includes:
- BioSteps-II filter housing (20”L × 15”W × 23”H)
- 6 Matala Progressive Filtration mats (2 Green + 2 Blue + 2 Gray, 200 sq ft)
- 16W EZClear UV Clarifier (Phillips lamp, 9,000 hr life)
- MF-1100EZ Magna-Flow submersible pump (1,100 GPH max / ~900 GPH at 3 ft head)
- EZBio 11 Plus Prefilter (4” × 8”, green coarse mesh, mounts on pump intake)
- Diverter valve for flow control
- 3/4” × 25 ft kink-free hose with hose clamps
- All connectors and fittings for installation
The Pro Kit does not include a waterfall spillway. For a waterfall return effect, see the BioSteps Premium Kit (31368) which adds the waterfall spillway to this same package.
What is the maximum pond capacity for the BioSteps Pro Kit?
This system is rated for water gardens up to 2,000 gallons. For koi ponds with higher biological waste, the system is recommended for ponds up to 1,000 gallons.
If your koi pond is larger than 1,000 gallons, consider using two BioSteps systems in parallel, or upgrading to a higher-capacity filter system. When in doubt, over-filter — more filtration capacity is always better than less for koi health.
How does Progressive Density filtration improve water clarity?
The BioSteps Pro Kit uses 6 Matala mats in a step-wise density sequence: 2 Green (coarse) → 2 Blue (medium) → 2 Gray (fine). This progressive design captures large debris in the coarser mats first, protecting the finer mats from premature clogging and extending the time between cleanings.
Each density level also colonizes a distinct community of beneficial nitrifying bacteria — different bacterial species thrive at different media densities. The total 200 sq ft of surface area across all 6 mats provides an enormous biological population that processes ammonia and nitrite continuously.
Is the MF-1100EZ pump energy efficient?
Yes. The MF-1100EZ is a mag-drive (magnetic drive) pump — one of the most energy-efficient pump designs available for pond applications. Mag-drive pumps consume significantly less power than equivalent direct-drive pumps.
At the BioSteps filter’s optimal flow rate of 800–900 GPH at 3 ft of head, the MF-1100EZ provides precisely the right volume for efficient biological treatment. Running the pump at higher flow rates (using a larger pump) is not recommended — the gravity-return BioSteps filter is designed for this specific flow range. The included diverter valve lets you fine-tune the flow to the ideal range.
How do I clean the BioSteps Pro Kit safely?
The BioSteps-II housing is designed for easy, bacteria-preserving maintenance:
- The sloped bottom with sludge drain plug allows you to flush accumulated waste out of the bottom of the filter without removing the mats.
- When cleaning the Matala mats, always rinse them in a bucket of pond water rather than tap water. Tap water contains chlorine and chloramines that will kill the beneficial bacteria colony. Pond water preserves the bacteria while removing trapped debris.
- The clear threaded cap on the UV unit lets you visually verify the lamp is operating without opening the filter.
- Replace the 16W UV lamp annually even if it still glows — UV output degrades before visible light output does.
- Clean the EZBio 11 Plus Prefilter (on the pump intake) regularly to maintain flow to the filter.
Why Buy Matala Products from Pond Pro Direct?
- Authentic Matala products with full warranty support
- Filtration expertise — call for help sizing the BioSteps system to your specific pond volume and fish load
- Price Match on identical Matala products from authorized retailers
Matala BioSteps Pro Kit (31344) — MF-1100EZ pump + 16W EZClear UV + 6 Matala mats (200 sq ft) + EZBio 11 Plus prefilter + diverter valve + 3/4"×25ft hose. 2,000 gal water garden / 1,000 gal koi. 800–900 GPH optimal. 20"×15"×23"H. Gravity return — elevated install required. Not for pools/salt water. Want waterfall? See Premium Kit 31368.
Questions about pond sizing or kit selection? Call or text (765) 508-4352 — Mon–Fri, 9 AM–5 PM EST.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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
