So you’ve invested in an outdoor fountain for your garden and it looks great. But how do you keep it looking at its best and stop the build up of scum and algae?
Tips on Water Feature Maintenance
We’ve put together some simple tips to make sure the maintenance of your outdoor fountain is as easy as it can be. With just a few simple measures, you can make sure your fountain stays sparkling.
1. Clean your outdoor fountain regularly
This shouldn’t come as a surprise but your fountain will need regular cleaning. Keep a soft, non-abrasive cloth handy to wipe the inside of the bowl to keep it from attracting dirt and dust. Use a soft, moist cloth to run over any outside edges or anywhere that dirt might collect. There’s also special fountain cleaning fluids you can add.
2. Refill and clean your pump
Make sure your pump is regularly drained, cleaned and refilled. You can use a bottle brush or pipe cleaners to make sure there are no blockages or debris build up through the pipes. You might have a problem with your pipes if the water you pour in is clean but it is coming out looking discoloured.
If you don’t clean your pump regularly it may be trying to force water through blockages and it could lead to it breaking altogether.
3. Empty the bowl completely at least once every six months
Making sure the bowl is clean is one of the most important tasks. Empty the bowl every six months at least and scrub away any lime scale or algae build up with a toothbrush or hard bristled brush and some ordinary detergent – not bleach or other harsh chemicals.
Check the instructions for your specific fountain in case there are any particular cleaning instructions.
4. Keep your pump maintained
Keeping your pump maintained will make sure your outdoor water fountain is working as it should and is still providing a beautiful display all the year round.
For some outdoor water fountains, you may need to add filtered water if you live in an area with particularly hard water.
You should clean out your pump once a year at least and you can easily disinfect it by disassembling it and placing it in white vinegar and lemon juice.
5. Prevent algae
To stop unsightly algae building up, you can buy a specialist algae prevention solution and add it to the water. To prevent the algae building up as quickly, move your fountain into the shade. Algae needs lots of sunlight to grow so by moving it into a darker area you can prevent the water from becoming clogged with the plant life.
6. Keep the water topped up
To stop your fountain drying out you should replace the water every month – adding in an algae repellent as you do. Drain and refill the fountain with fresh water and through the summer make sure your fountain has enough water as it will dry up quicker. Adding an auto refill system is highly recommended, especially for outdoor fountains with pools.
This will prevent the water from stagnating and it should allow you to check over your fountain for any dirt or grime that might have built up at the same time.
Outdoor Water Fountain Tips Per Season
Outdoor Water Fountain Tips Per SeasonFrom preparing your fountain for the spring season to protecting it from freezing temperatures during the winter months, each season requires specific care and attention. Let's explore outdoor water fountain tips per season to help you keep your fountain looking and functioning its best year-round.
Winter Care
During the freezing months, your outdoor water feature faces the most dangerous of all weather conditions. That is why winterizing your fountain is extremely important. First things first: remove the plug and drain it. If your fountain is small and portable, store it in a safe area to prevent cracking--especially for those made of marble and ceramics. Store it with a thick, non-abrasive cloth throughout the season as a shield from the drafty climate. For larger installations, make sure that it is completely dried up. Remove the debris and cover the fountain with a thick, water resistant cover.
Before winter sets in, make sure to remove any debris or leaves that might have accumulated in the fountain. Then, cover the entire fountain with a sturdy and water-resistant cover, offering additional protection against snow, ice, and the elements. By taking these necessary steps to winterize your outdoor water feature, you can ensure that it remains in excellent condition and be ready to shine again as soon as the warmer months return.
Spring Swing
It's time to put that outdoor water feature back into view! Clean the debris and build-up; use a hose to strike that unwanted dirt away. At best, wash it with soap and solution to bring back its old shine. After drying, it's time to fill the fountain with distilled water. Add chlorine or treated enzymes to prevent algae and build-up. Put the pump back in, plug and watch your fountain welcome the new season with flair!
With proper care and attention, your outdoor water fountain will continue to be a breathtaking centerpiece, bringing joy and tranquility to your outdoor space for seasons to come.
Summer Sizzle
During hot, sweltering weather, the water in your outdoor water fountain's pump can easily evaporate. This can cause damage to the pump and reduce the fountain's effectiveness. To prevent this, it's important to keep an eye on the fountain's water level and add water as needed.
Checking the water level every other day is recommended to ensure that the fountain is functioning properly. Adding a few measures of water at a time can help keep the water flowing smoothly and prevent any damage to the pump. It's also important to use clean water to prevent the buildup of algae or other contaminants that can clog the pump.
Austere Autumn
Fallen leaves and other debris can cause damage to your outdoor water fountain if left unattended. To prevent this, it's important to take steps to maintain the fountain and keep it free of debris.
One way to prevent debris from accumulating in and around the fountain is to trim the foliage surrounding it. This will prevent leaves and other debris from falling into the fountain and clogging the pump or causing damage.
It's also important to check the bowl for deposits that may thrive during the season. Algae and other contaminants can build up in the water and cause damage to the pump or reduce the effectiveness of the fountain. To prevent this, drain and replace the water in the fountain more frequently.
Preserving Your Outdoor Water Features
Preserving your outdoor water features is crucial to ensure that they remain beautiful and functional for years to come. To do this, it's important to take steps to protect them from the elements. Proper fountain maintenance is key to enjoying a beautiful and functional outdoor fountain. By following regular cleaning routines, maintaining water balance, and protecting it during different seasons, you can ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your fountain. Invest time in water fountain maintenance to keep your water feature running smoothly for years to come.