CALIFORNIA AQUATICS

We had installed a small in-ground pond that featured 2 small copper weir waterfalls. The water fell through a gravel catch basin into a trough and ideally then was recycled back into the pond. From the beginning, there had been myriad problems with the design of the water feature - keeping the water level in the trough high enough to keep the pump from gulping air and losing prime was a key issue. Finally, the pump stopped working altogether. Over the course of about 7 years, we had several different water feature specialists consult and work with us to try to resolve the issues, but none had ever actually succeeded until California Aquatics stepped in. An automatic self-levelling and refilling device was installed initially and then, a few months later, a submersible pump was installed in the actual trough. Thanks to the expertise of Jim and Wade with California Aquatics, our lovely pond functions smoothly and is quite a lovely and peaceful addition to our zen-like backyard. The water lilies are blooming and the dragonflies are hatching. The only problem we experienced with this company is a general lack of communication and follow-through. Once on site, their work is stellar and very professional. However, it often takes many phone calls to actually get someone to respond in person.

Cleaned my koi pond. They sent a sub contractor who couldn't keep the schedule, because he had to finish another job the same day first. Didn't come prepared and had to leave to get fish holding basins. Came back with 3 baby inflatable basins. Koi jumped out several times and water needed to be constantly replaced since he didn't bring a pump for the basins. He did clean the pond ok, but moving and cleaning behind and under some of the rocks would have been the right thing to do. |I also was supposed to receive an estimate before the start of the job, but the sub contractor told me that even with his 25+ years experience he didn't know if the job would take him 3 hours or 6 hours. My pond is 1000 gallons with a very basic design and access.

All work was done promptly and within the pre-agreed budget. They were extremely knowledgable about the construction, and were pleasant to work with. We no longer have to worry about the pond running low on water. The installation has significantly improved our enjoyment of our backyard pond.

The rep had to schedule the bid visit off about a month because they are so busy. He finally showed up and talked for quite awhile, measured, checked the electrical requirements and left promising a bid in a few days. We never heard from them. They must be too busy for new work.