Why should there be some sort of support under the drafting hose in a pond?

The presence of support under the drafting hose in a pond is crucial to ensure the strainer is elevated off the bottom of the water. This positioning serves two main purposes. First, it prevents debris, such as mud, leaves, or sediment, from being sucked into the pump. Drawing in such materials can cause damage to the pump, lead to clogs in the suction line, and disrupt the performance of the entire pumping operation.

Maintaining the strainer above the pond bottom ensures that only clean water is drawn into the system, which is vital for maintaining pump efficiency and longevity. Additionally, keeping the strainer a few inches above the bottom reduces the chances of creating a vortex that could introduce air into the system, further ensuring optimal performance during operations.