5 Easy Maintenance Tips for Your Garden Fountain

Jan 29th 2018

A garden or patio fountain can make any yard feel like a spa retreat. With the calming sound of babbling water, outdoor fountains bring a sense of calm and tranquility to any space they inhabit. To keep your fountain looking and performing its best, follow these 5 easy tips.

1. Keep Water Levels Consistent

To ensure your fountain’s water pump is always performing at its best, it’s important to keep a sufficient level of water in your unit - usually about ¾ full. If there isn’t enough water, the pump is likely to overheat and fail. It’s best to check your water level daily, making sure to add small amounts of water at a time. If you live in a particularly hot climate where water tends to evaporate quickly, you may need to check water levels more frequently (to combat this, place your fountain where there is ample shade).

2. Clean Your Fountain Regularly

To keep your fountain pristine and healthy, it is essential to keep up on regular cleanings. Algae, leaves and debris carried in by wind, and dirt/droppings from small animals can build up in the bowl and water pump. Try to avoid using soap to clean your fountain; the most recommended cleaning products are store-bought fountain cleaners, algaecides, diluted chlorine bleach, and simple white vinegar (for a more natural cleaner).

3. Pamper the Pump

The pump is the heart of your fountain and keeping it clean is the single most important way to prolong the life of your unit. Use a cloth to wipe away any build-up or debris, both on the outside and inside of the pump. You may need to use an old toothbrush to clean any hard-to-reach areas. If you live in an climate that experiences a cold and snowy winter, unplug and remove the pump when you are done using your fountain for the season if possible. Store the pump indoors and away from the cold until you are ready to use your fountain again next year.

4. Check Your Chemicals

Mineral deposits and build-up as well as imbalanced pH levels can affect your fountain just as it can an outdoor pool. Test and check the chemical composition of your water about once a week to make sure your levels are optimal. Keep in mind that if your water’s pH is too low, it could cause damage to your internal pump.

5. Winterize Properly

If at all possible, fountains should be transported indoors during the cold winter months to prevent cracking. If this is not possible, make sure to thoroughly drain, clean, and dry the unit, then protect it using a fountain cover. It is highly recommended to unplug and store the water pump indoors.