Elite Spillway 28"
$239.99
Elite 28" Medium Spillway Falls Kit
$1,899.99
- 28" Elite Spillway creates a wide, cascading waterfall
- Pond-less design with a concealed underground reservoir—no open pond required
- Maximum stream size: Approximately 15' long x 2'-4' wide
- Complete equipment kit: Includes 6,000 GPH pump, Small Pump Canyon®, 3 Large Basin Matrix boxes, liners and plumbing
- Low-maintenance recirculating water feature
- Decorative rocks and gravel sold separately
Blue Thumb Elite Pond-Less Waterfall Systems
Elite 28" Medium Spillway Falls Kit
Bring the sound and movement of a natural waterfall to your landscape without building a traditional pond. Our Elite 28" Medium Spillway Falls Kit combines a wide waterfall spillway, powerful recirculating pump, and concealed underground reservoir to create a beautiful pond-less waterfall and stream.
Designed for a stream up to approximately 15 feet long and 2–4 feet wide, this complete waterfall kit includes the major equipment and installation materials needed to build a professional-looking disappearing waterfall. You supply the decorative stone and prepare the landscape.
28" Waterfall spillway width
15 ft. Maximum planned stream length
6,000 GPH Included pump's rated maximum flow
3 Large Included Basin Matrix boxes
A Pond-Less Waterfall Built for Bigger Backyard Features
Natural Waterfall Without an Open Pond
Water travels down the waterfall and disappears beneath decorative stone into an underground reservoir. Enjoy the sights and sounds of moving water without maintaining a traditional open pond.
Wide, Even Water Distribution
The 28" Elite Spillway features a low-profile, one-piece design with internal baffles that help distribute water evenly across the waterfall opening. The box can be concealed within surrounding rockwork.
Coordinated Waterfall Components
The pump, Pump Canyon, Basin Matrix, liner, and plumbing are supplied as a coordinated system. This simplifies component selection while leaving you free to customize the waterfall with your preferred stone and landscaping.
Is This the Right Waterfall Kit for Your Landscape?
The PB28KIT is a strong choice for homeowners and landscape professionals planning a medium-sized cascading waterfall with a wider spillway and a substantial rock-lined stream.
Plan for the Underground Basin, Too
Our installation manual recommends an underground reservoir excavation approximately 44" long × 50" wide × 25" deep for the included three large Basin Matrix boxes and Small Pump Canyon.
These measurements describe the recommended underground basin layout—not the entire finished waterfall footprint.
Allow additional room for the streambed, waterfall drops, surrounding rockwork, liner overlaps, and landscape grading.
Planning tip: The stream dimensions are approximate. Taller waterfall drops, wider stream sections, and changes in elevation can reduce the finished stream length possible with the supplied liner.
Need a smaller waterfall? Consider our Elite 16" Small Spillway Falls Kit . If your design calls for a larger cascading system, compare our Elite 30" Large Cascading Falls Kit .
What's Included in the 28" Spillway Falls Kit?
We've assembled the major waterfall, reservoir, pumping, and liner components into one coordinated package. Here's what comes with your kit.
Waterfall Spillway & Plumbing
- 28" Elite Spillway Waterfall Box (PB2866)
- One-piece, low-profile spillway with internal water-distribution baffles
- Rear 2" Spinweld inlet connection
- 2" × 25' black PVC Flex Hose
- Pump discharge assembly with check valve
- Installation kit and instructions
Underground Reservoir System
- Small Elite Pump Canyon® (PB1168)
- Three large Basin Matrix boxes (Large Matrix WMLG34)
- Underground water-storage system designed to support the surrounding rockwork
- Accessible pump vault for inspection and maintenance
Pump & Water Circulation
- 6,000 GPH Blue Thumb submersible pump
- IllumiFlow® 6000 GPH Pump (PB1748) listed in our pump family
- Pump and check valve assembly for recirculating water to the spillway
- Plumbing components for the supplied waterfall configuration
Liner, Protection & Startup Supplies
- 10' × 10' EPDM rubber basin liner
- 10' × 20' EPDM rubber streambed liner
- Protective underliner
- Muck Buster® starter water treatment
- Installation instructions and associated kit supplies
What You'll Need to Supply
- Decorative boulders, rocks, and gravel
- Water to fill the underground reservoir
- Excavation and site-preparation equipment
- Suitable GFCI-protected electrical access
- Plants and other decorative landscaping, if desired
Rocks and gravel are not included. These materials are used to build the finished waterfall, line the streambed, and conceal the underground reservoir.
Optional automatic water-fill equipment and lighting are also sold separately.
Elite 28" Medium Spillway Falls Kit Specifications
Kit SKU: PB28KIT
Kit size: Medium Elite Spillway
Waterfall width: 28"
Planned stream: Up to approximately 15' L × 2'–4' W
Spillway model: PB2866
Spillway size: 32.25" W × 15.5" D × 5" H
Spillway inlet: One rear 2" Spinweld
Pump flow: 6,000 GPH maximum rated flow
Pump family: Blue Thumb IllumiFlow® 6000
Pump model: PB1748
Pump max head: 28.5 ft.
Pump power: 521 W / 4.55 A
Pump cord: 25 ft.
Plumbing: 2" × 25' PVC Flex Hose
Pump vault: Small Elite Pump Canyon® PB1168
Vault dimensions: 15.5" × 18" × 22.5" H
Vault capacity: 16 gallons
Basin Matrix: Three large boxes, WMLG34
Large Matrix size: 26.5" L × 16" W × 17.5" H each
Matrix volume: 32 gallons per large box
Basin liner: 10' × 10' EPDM rubber
Stream liner: 10' × 20' EPDM rubber
Basin excavation: Approx. 44" L × 50" W × 25" D
System type: Pond-less recirculating waterfall
Maximum pump flow is a pump rating, not guaranteed water delivery at the waterfall. Actual output depends on pumping height, tubing resistance, fittings, and the finished installation. Matrix-box volume is not the same as total usable reservoir capacity.
How the Pond-Less Waterfall System Works
A pond-less waterfall creates the appearance of a flowing stream without an exposed pond at the bottom. The water is stored underground and continuously recirculated through the waterfall.
Water Collects Underground
Water flows into the lined underground basin. The Basin Matrix boxes maintain open storage space beneath the decorative rockwork.
The Pump Draws Water From the Reservoir
The submersible pump sits inside the Small Pump Canyon®, which provides an accessible chamber for pump inspection and maintenance.
Water Travels to the Spillway
The pump pushes water through the PVC Flex Hose to the 28" Elite Spillway positioned at the beginning of the waterfall.
The Waterfall Returns to the Basin
Water passes over the spillway and down the rock-lined stream before disappearing into the hidden reservoir to begin the cycle again.
Planning Your Pond-Less Waterfall Installation
This is a complete waterfall equipment kit, but installation still requires excavation, careful grading, liner placement, plumbing connections, and stonework. Review the official installation manual before beginning.
Choose Your Location
Plan the waterfall's viewing angle, stream route, and reservoir position. Confirm access to water and electricity, and have underground utility locations marked before digging.
Excavate the Underground Basin
Lay out the three large Basin Matrix boxes and Small Pump Canyon®. Follow the recommended 44" × 50" × 25" basin layout and remove sharp objects that could damage the liner.
Install the Liner and Reservoir
Install the protective underliner and EPDM rubber liner. Position the Pump Canyon and assembled Basin Matrix boxes according to the installation diagram.
Position the Spillway and Connect Plumbing
Build the streambed, install the stream liner with the required overlap, and position the Elite Spillway on a firm, level foundation. Connect the pump, check valve assembly, and flexible hose following the manual.
Complete the Rockwork and Start the Falls
Arrange the decorative stone, conceal the underground basin, and fill the reservoir. Start the pump and inspect water flow, reservoir level, and stream edges for leaks before completing the landscaping.
Installation detail: Our spillway installation guide calls for the waterfall box to be level from side to side with a slight forward pitch to encourage water to flow evenly over the opening.
Keep the Pump Canyon access lid accessible for future servicing. Avoid trimming excess liner until the waterfall has been tested and the surrounding landscape is complete.
Optional Upgrades for Your Waterfall
Automatic Water-Level Control
Water is gradually lost through evaporation and splashing. The Small Pump Canyon includes a connection for an optional automatic water-fill system.
Our Hudson Automatic Water Fill Kit (PB1342) can replenish water as the reservoir level drops.
Optional accessory; sold separately. Water-supply requirements apply.
Waterfall Lighting
Add appropriately rated water-feature lighting to highlight your waterfall and surrounding stonework after sunset.
Browse our pond-less waterfall products for compatible lighting and accessories.
Lighting is not included with this kit. Confirm compatibility before ordering.
Waterfall Care and Seasonal Maintenance
A pond-less waterfall generally requires less maintenance than an exposed fish pond, but regular inspection is still important for reliable water circulation.
- Monitor the water level. Check the underground reservoir regularly and replenish water lost to evaporation or splashing. Never allow the pump to run dry.
- Remove debris. Clear leaves, twigs, and sediment from the streambed and spillway as needed.
- Inspect the pump. Check the intake, plumbing, and connections for blockages, leaks, or reduced flow. Disconnect power before servicing.
- Use water treatments appropriately. Follow product labels and our pond-less maintenance guide. Do not apply Muck Buster at the same time as an algaecide.
- Prepare for freezing conditions. Winter operation requires additional care. If shutting the system down, follow our seasonal maintenance instructions to protect the pump and plumbing from freeze damage.
For a winter shutdown, our maintenance guide recommends leaving the underground basin at least half full to help reduce freeze-thaw heaving. Do not completely drain the basin for winter storage.
Compare Blue Thumb Pond-Less Waterfall Kits
Not sure which waterfall kit best fits your project? Compare spillway widths, planned stream sizes, pump ratings, and included reservoir components below.
| Kit / SKU | Falls Width | Max Stream | Pump | Liner | Flex Hose | Matrix | Pump Vault |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Mini PB1373 |
10" | 4' × 1'–2' | 1,495 GPH | 6' × 10' | 1" × 7' | Canyon Matrix | Integrated |
| DIY Small PB1854 |
20" | 8' × 2'–4' | 1,980 GPH | 8' × 15' | 1.5" × 10' | Canyon Matrix | Integrated |
| Elite Cascade Small PB1229 |
14" | 6' × 1'–2' | 2,100 GPH | 10' × 15' | 2" × 25' | 1 Large | Small |
| Elite Spillway Small PB16KIT |
16" | 6' × 1'–2' | 2,100 GPH | 10' × 15' | 2" × 25' | 1 Large | Small |
| Elite Cascade Medium PB1236 |
22" | 16' × 2'–4' | 4,500 GPH | 10' × 10' Basin 10' × 20' Stream |
2" × 25' | 3 Large | Small |
| Elite Spillway Medium PB28KIT |
28" | 15' × 2'–4' | 6,000 GPH | 10' × 10' Basin 10' × 20' Stream |
2" × 25' | 3 Large | Small |
| Elite Cascade Large PB30CFK |
30" | 17' × 4'–6' | 6,000 GPH | 15' × 15' Basin 10' × 20' Stream |
3" × 25' | 3 Large + 3 Small | Large |
| Elite Cascade XL PB40CFK |
40" | 18' × 6'–7' | 7,800 GPH | 15' × 15' Basin 15' × 20' Stream |
3" × 25' | 4 Large + 4 Small | Large |
DIY Mini 10" — PB1373
Waterfall: 10"
Stream: 4' × 1'–2'
Pump: 1,495 GPH
Liner: 6' × 10'
Hose: 1" × 7'
Reservoir: Canyon Matrix, integrated pump access
DIY Small 20" — PB1854
Waterfall: 20"
Stream: 8' × 2'–4'
Pump: 1,980 GPH
Liner: 8' × 15'
Hose: 1.5" × 10'
Reservoir: Canyon Matrix, integrated pump access
Elite Cascade Small 14" — PB1229
Waterfall: 14"
Stream: 6' × 1'–2'
Pump: 2,100 GPH
Liner: 10' × 15'
Hose: 2" × 25'
Reservoir: 1 large matrix, Small Pump Canyon
Elite Spillway Small 16" — PB16KIT
Waterfall: 16"
Stream: 6' × 1'–2'
Pump: 2,100 GPH
Liner: 10' × 15'
Hose: 2" × 25'
Reservoir: 1 large matrix, Small Pump Canyon
Elite Cascade Medium 22" — PB1236
Waterfall: 22"
Stream: 16' × 2'–4'
Pump: 4,500 GPH
Liner: 10' × 10' basin + 10' × 20' stream
Hose: 2" × 25'
Reservoir: 3 large matrices, Small Pump Canyon
Elite Spillway Medium 28" — PB28KIT
Current product
Waterfall: 28"
Stream: 15' × 2'–4'
Pump: 6,000 GPH
Liner: 10' × 10' basin + 10' × 20' stream
Hose: 2" × 25'
Reservoir: 3 large matrices, Small Pump Canyon
Elite Cascade Large 30" — PB30CFK
Waterfall: 30"
Stream: 17' × 4'–6'
Pump: 6,000 GPH
Liner: 15' × 15' basin + 10' × 20' stream
Hose: 3" × 25'
Reservoir: 3 large + 3 small matrices, Large Pump Canyon
Elite Cascade XL 40" — PB40CFK
Waterfall: 40"
Stream: 18' × 6'–7'
Pump: 7,800 GPH
Liner: 15' × 15' basin + 15' × 20' stream
Hose: 3" × 25'
Reservoir: 4 large + 4 small matrices, Large Pump Canyon
Stream measurements are approximate design guidelines, not guaranteed finished dimensions. Pump figures are maximum rated flow. The PB28KIT stream measurement follows the current kit installation manual.
Installation Manuals and Product Resources
These official Blue Thumb resources provide detailed installation instructions, basin configurations, maintenance guidance, and component drawings.
Elite Spillway Falls Kit Installation Manual (PDF) Elite Spillway, Pump Canyon & Matrix Guide (PDF) Pond-Less Waterfall Maintenance Guide (PDF) Basin Matrix Assembly Guide (PDF) 28" Elite Spillway CAD Drawing (PDF) Small Pump Canyon CAD Drawing (PDF)
Waterfall Installation Videos
Want to see how a pond-less waterfall system comes together? Visit our installation resource center for Blue Thumb instructional videos covering waterfall construction, reservoir components, and installation techniques.
Instructional videos may demonstrate different waterfall models or component configurations. Always use the PB28KIT installation manual for the exact basin layout and supplied kit components.
Blue Thumb Warranty Coverage
Different components in this kit have different warranty coverage.
- Elite Spillway Waterfall Box: Lifetime manufacturer's warranty against qualifying manufacturing defects.
- Small Pump Canyon®: Lifetime manufacturer's warranty against qualifying manufacturing defects.
- Blue Thumb Basin Matrix: Lifetime coverage under our engineered-plastic component warranty.
- IllumiFlow® Pump: Two-year limited manufacturer's warranty.
Coverage is subject to applicable warranty terms, proper installation, and product-specific exclusions. These component warranties do not mean the entire kit carries a lifetime warranty.
Review Blue Thumb's Complete Warranty Information
Need Help Planning Your Waterfall?
Choosing the right waterfall kit involves more than selecting a spillway width. Our Sales and Technical Team can help you review your planned stream length, waterfall elevation, underground basin layout, and pump requirements before you order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a complete pond-less waterfall kit?
Yes. Our PB28KIT includes the 28" Elite Spillway, submersible pump, Small Pump Canyon, three large Basin Matrix boxes, rubber liners, protective underliner, plumbing, and installation supplies. Decorative rocks and gravel are not included and must be sourced separately.
Does this waterfall require an open pond?
No. This is a pond-less waterfall system. Water is stored in a lined underground reservoir beneath the decorative stone. The pump circulates water to the spillway, and the stream returns it to the hidden basin.
How large can I build the waterfall and stream?
The kit is designed for a stream up to approximately 15 feet long and 2–4 feet wide. Actual dimensions depend on elevation changes, waterfall drops, stream shape, and liner layout. We recommend planning the design before excavation.
How much space is needed for the underground reservoir?
Our PB28KIT installation manual recommends a basin excavation approximately 44" long, 50" wide, and 25" deep. This is the underground reservoir area only. Additional space is needed for the stream, waterfall, and surrounding stonework.
Will the pump deliver 6,000 GPH at the waterfall?
Not necessarily. The 6,000 GPH figure is the pump's maximum rated flow. Actual output decreases as pumping height and plumbing resistance increase. The finished waterfall's elevation, pipe length, and fittings all affect the delivered water flow.
Can I add an automatic water-fill system?
Yes. The included Small Pump Canyon has a connection for compatible automatic water-fill equipment. Our Hudson Automatic Water Fill Kit (PB1342) is available separately and can help replace water lost through evaporation or splashing.
How much maintenance does a pond-less waterfall need?
Routine care includes checking reservoir water levels, removing leaves and debris, inspecting the pump and plumbing, and using appropriate water treatments when needed. Pond-less systems avoid many of the maintenance tasks associated with an exposed fish pond, but they are not maintenance-free.
Can I leave the waterfall running during winter?
Winter operation may be possible in some installations, but freezing conditions can damage pumps and plumbing or redirect water out of the streambed. Review our Pond-Less Waterfall Maintenance Guide before deciding whether to operate or shut down the system during freezing weather.
Does the entire waterfall kit have a lifetime warranty?
No. Our eligible engineered-plastic components, including the Elite Spillway, Pump Canyon, and Basin Matrix, have lifetime coverage against qualifying manufacturing defects. The IllumiFlow pump has a separate two-year limited warranty. Other components may have different manufacturer coverage. See our warranty information for complete terms and exclusions.
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