Outdoor Fountain Maintenance
Every water fountain requires service and maintenance. The best way to ensure the maintenance is done on time is by applying a schedule. If the fountain is not maintained properly minerals can build up, water won’t run clear, and the motor can burn out. Make the wise decision to utilize a maintenance plan to keep your fountain in top condition.
Water fountain durability depends a lot on the materials used in construction. The fountain’s construction material can determine if algae build up occurs, and how fast. Maintaining the feature’s cleanliness can also help to ensure your motor won’t wear out. All of our units come with Fountain manuals that include maintenance tips and instructions.
Water Fountain Cleaning Guide
The complications that come from an unkept fountain can be a headache. The recommended maintenance is usually every few weeks to a month for the standard fountain. Situations get out of hand when stagnant water stresses your motor and equipment.
Larger fountains can last longer without maintenance because they are designed to handle more stress. Any fountain that hasn’t been maintenance in a while should have the pump and motor cleaned out. The scheduled cleaning should ultimately depend on the size of the fountain.
How to Clean A Water Fountain
- Turning off the water fountain is essential before performing any cleaning in the unit. Although the water fountain is full of water it's still runs off It is important for one’s safety to turn off the breakers and make sure that the pump has stopped operating before making any changes.
- The basin of the water fountains is usually the place with the most weight due to water weights and decor rocks. The stones should be removed and any other decorative items in the basin. This item can be removed and cleaned separately from the basin. This process ensures that algae never gets a chance to build up.
- Removing the pump from the fountain itself assists the cleaning process and allows more success when cleaning tough spots. Also, the inspection process for algae build up is better with the pump removed. This will shorten the life span of your water if the area is ignored. Remember, a dirty pump will leave your water looking dull.
- This step requires that you empty the water out of the fountain itself. The size of the fountain determines whether you pour it out or drain it. Large water fountain may only have a draining pump option. Make sure to inspect the fountain before and after removing water from the basin.
- Ensure that harmful chemicals aren't used when cleaning your fountain. The difference in the material can affect the cleaning process. Dish soap is a healthy alternative and its much safer than using harmful chemicals. All soap must be washed prior to refilling the water fountain on to the next step. Ensure there is no water on the fountain anywhere before reconnecting the unit.
- Scrub the algae away from the fountain. This is where your elbow grease comes in. The work required will depend on how dirty the fountain is and how much algae it has accumulated. The main focused should be placed on cleaning hard to reach spots in the basin.
- Rinsing the fountain thoroughly is an important step. This step removes leftover soap and cleaning detergent. It can’t be overstated how important it is that soap never reaches the pump. A good rinse is a crucial step that can’t be ignored and is part of the cleaning the process. Not always does the first rinse get off all the soap, so be diligent in your efforts.
Pump Cleaning Tips
Cleaning your pump is a top priority in your fountain cleaning strategy. The pump is like the heart of your fountain. In most cases this is the only piece that moves. The pump is susceptible to algae build-up and debris. The next steps will help the fountain pump maintenance.
- Remove the pump and open the unit to remove the propeller.
- To brush thoroughly a tooth bush is recommended. It important that all vents and entry ports are clear for use.
- Pump tubing needs to be cleaned.
Removal of White Scale
White scale looks like a strong staining paint. It has little margin for error. Distilled water works well against white scale. This, however, is not a permanent fix. Trace elements are found in most tap water. These elements lead to the staining of the white scale. It's best to use distilled water to ensure contaminants never affect your water supply.
- Calcium line remover
- Protect stain scale remover
- Vinegar and water
Algae Removal
Algae is a common problem with all water features. It's produced by the combination of water with light and will quickly become a nuisance is not taken care of. Our Fountec cleaner works to keep algae at bay and ensure your water is running clear.