API Pond EcoFix – 1 Gallon (Natural Sludge Reducer & Water Clarifier)

API Pond EcoFix Sludge Destroyer (1 Gallon, SKU 3147) is a highly concentrated, all-natural beneficial bacteria formula that breaks down pond sludge, reduces organic waste buildup, and improves water clarity. EcoFix targets the accumulation of fish waste, dead algae, leaves, and grass clippings that settle on pond bottoms and clog filters — converting organic matter into harmless byproducts while simultaneously increasing dissolved oxygen levels in the water. The 1-gallon bottle treats up to 22,000 gallons of pond water. Use at spring start-up and end of season: 4 tablespoons per 250 gallons, twice a week for 2 weeks for initial or deep-clean treatment. Switch to 2 tablespoons per 250 gallons every two weeks for ongoing maintenance. Can be used in both fresh water and ponds containing salt. Safe for all fish, aquatic plants, wildlife, and mammals that drink from treated water. For over 50 years, API has developed research-driven pond care solutions trusted by pond owners worldwide. SKU 3147 1 Gallon Treats 22,000 gal Natural Bacteria Salt Water OK Fish & Plant Safe By API Key Features & Benefits 🦠 All-Natural Concentrated Bacteria EcoFix uses a highly concentrated blend of all-natural beneficial bacteria — not synthetic chemicals, enzymes, or harsh oxidizers. These bacteria colonize the organic waste layer on the pond bottom and in the water column, digesting fish waste, dead algae, leaves, and grass clippings into harmless compounds. The bacterial action continues working between doses once a colony is established in the pond and filter. 💧 Increases Dissolved Oxygen Organic sludge builds up biological oxygen demand (BOD) — as bacteria in the sludge decompose waste anaerobically, they consume dissolved oxygen that fish and aquatic life need. EcoFix reduces this oxygen-depleting sludge load, which directly increases the dissolved oxygen available to fish. This benefit is especially important in summer when warm water already holds less dissolved oxygen. 🔄 Seasonal Treatment Protocol EcoFix is designed with a specific two-phase seasonal protocol: an intensive initial treatment (twice a week for two weeks at 4 tbsp/250 gal) at spring start-up or end of season to address accumulated sludge, followed by a lighter maintenance schedule (every two weeks at 2 tbsp/250 gal) to prevent re-accumulation. Following this protocol produces the best long-term results. 🧂 Compatible with Salted Ponds Many koi pond owners add pond salt to reduce fish stress, treat disease, and improve osmoregulation. EcoFix is specifically formulated to be effective in both standard freshwater ponds and ponds containing salt — unlike some bacterial products whose cultures are inhibited by salt. Use EcoFix on the same schedule in salted koi ponds without modification. 🐟 Completely Safe for All Pond Life Non-toxic to fish, aquatic plants, birds, and mammals that drink from treated water. API EcoFix contains no harsh chemicals, algaecides, or pesticides — it works entirely through natural bacterial digestion. It does not kill algae (use API AlgaeFix for algae control) but reduces the nutrient load that fuels algae blooms by eliminating the organic matter algae feed on. ⚙️ Reduces Filter Maintenance Organic sludge clogs pump intakes, pre-filter sponges, and biological filter media — requiring more frequent cleaning and reducing flow rates. By digesting the organic solids before they accumulate in the filter, EcoFix reduces the frequency of filter cleanings and helps maintain consistent pump performance throughout the season. Technical Specifications Specification Value SKU (PPD) 3147 Official Product Name API POND ECOFIX SLUDGE DESTROYER Size 1 Gallon (128 oz) Coverage — 1 Gallon Treats up to 22,000 U.S. gallons Mode of Action All-natural, highly-concentrated beneficial bacteria Targets Fish waste, dead algae, leaves, grass clippings, organic sludge Initial / Spring / End-of-Season Dose 4 tbsp (60 ml) per 250 gallons, twice a week for 2 weeks Maintenance Dose 2 tbsp (30 ml) per 250 gallons, every 2 weeks Salt Compatibility Suitable for standard garden ponds and ponds containing salt Fish Safety Safe for all fish, aquatic plants, and wildlife Mammal Safety Will not harm mammals if they drink from treated water Algae Control Does NOT kill algae — use API AlgaeFix for algae control Application Liquid — use included dosing cap on bottle; shake well first Suitable For Garden ponds, koi ponds, water gardens, multi-feature systems Dosing Guide Treatment Phase Dose per 250 Gallons Frequency Duration Spring Start-Up / End of Season 4 tbsp (60 ml) Twice a week 2 weeks Quick Clean-Up 4 tbsp (60 ml) Twice a week 2 weeks Regular Maintenance 2 tbsp (30 ml) Every 2 weeks Ongoing Use the included dosing cap on the bottle for accurate measurements. Add directly to pond near active water circulation (pump intake or waterfall) for best distribution. Shake well before each use. Improved aeration is recommended when treating ponds with significant organic buildup. API EcoFix Size Options Size Coverage Best For 16 oz Up to 4,000 gallons Small ponds, first-time trial 64 oz Up to 16,000 gallons Medium ponds, seasonal use 1 Gallon ← This Up to 22,000 gallons Large ponds, best seasonal value Frequently Asked Questions How does API Pond EcoFix Sludge Destroyer work naturally? API Pond EcoFix contains a highly concentrated blend of all-natural beneficial bacteria — the same types of microorganisms found in healthy, naturally balanced pond ecosystems. These bacteria consume fish waste, dead algae, decaying leaves, and other organic matter that accumulates on the pond bottom, converting solid waste into harmless, water-soluble compounds. As the sludge layer is digested, biological oxygen demand decreases and dissolved oxygen levels rise — directly benefiting fish health. The result is cleaner water, less muck buildup, and reduced maintenance frequency throughout the season. What is the total coverage for the 1-Gallon API EcoFix bottle? The 1-gallon API EcoFix bottle treats up to 22,000 U.S. gallons of pond water. For context across the product family: the 16 oz bottle treats up to 4,000 gallons, and the 64 oz bottle treats up to 16,000 gallons. The 1-gallon size provides the best value per gallon of pond water treated and is ideal for large koi ponds, water gardens with multiple features, and pond owners who use EcoFix on a consistent seasonal schedule. Is API EcoFix safe for koi, goldfish, and surrounding wildlife? Yes — API EcoFix is 100% all-natural and completely safe for all fish (including sensitive koi), aquatic plants, birds, and wildlife. API has confirmed it will not harm mammals that drink from treated water. Because EcoFix uses beneficial bacteria rather than synthetic chemicals, algaecides, or oxidizers, there is no risk of chemical toxicity or residual buildup in the pond ecosystem. It is also compatible with salted ponds, making it suitable for koi ponds where pond salt is used for fish health management. Does EcoFix help increase dissolved oxygen in the pond? Yes — this is one of EcoFix's most meaningful secondary benefits. Organic sludge creates biological oxygen demand (BOD): as organic matter decomposes, bacteria in the anaerobic sludge layer consume dissolved oxygen, reducing the amount available to fish. By breaking down and eliminating the sludge layer, EcoFix directly reduces BOD and restores dissolved oxygen to the levels fish need. This benefit is especially important during summer heat waves when warm water naturally holds less dissolved oxygen, and fish are already under increased stress. How often should I apply the 1-Gallon EcoFix for maintenance? API EcoFix follows a two-phase treatment protocol: Initial / Spring start-up / End-of-season treatment: Add 4 tablespoons (60 ml) per 250 gallons of pond water, twice a week for 2 weeks. This intensive phase establishes a strong bacterial colony and addresses accumulated sludge. Regular maintenance: Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) per 250 gallons, every 2 weeks throughout the season to maintain a healthy bacterial population and prevent re-accumulation. Use the dosing cap included on the bottle for accurate measurement. Add EcoFix near a pump intake or waterfall return for thorough distribution. Aeration during treatment improves bacterial performance. Can I use API EcoFix in cold water during the winter? EcoFix bacterial activity slows as water temperatures drop, as with all beneficial bacteria. API recommends using EcoFix through the main pond season (spring, summer, fall) when water temperatures support active bacterial growth. For end-of-season treatment before temperatures drop significantly, apply the full initial dose protocol (twice a week for two weeks) to clear accumulated sludge before winter. Resume treatment in early spring at pond opening. In very cold water, the bacteria remain viable but largely dormant until temperatures warm. Why Buy from Pond Pro Direct? Authentic API products — fresh, genuine inventory Expert pond treatment guidance — call or text (765) 508-4352, Mon–Fri 9am–5pm EST Free shipping on all orders Price match guarantee on identical products 30-day return period on eligible items