Keen gardeners are always on the lookout for help and advice. This can be on anything from dealing with pests to water-wise tips. If you have a fountain in your garden, you’ll need to clean the water on a regular basis to keep it looking nice and fresh. In this article, we’ll discuss the best way to do precisely that.
Why Cleaning Is So Important
Cleaning a fountain will remove algae and debris that can clog the pump and stop the other components from working. If it isn’t regularly cleaned, the water will become dirty and harbor bacteria and other harmful contaminants. Clean water is essential for the health of the fish and other aquatic life in the fountain – or any humans or pets that come in contact with it.
Water cleaning prevents the build-up of mineral deposits on the fountain, which can become an eyesore. Finally, a well-maintained fountain will last longer and require less maintenance than one that’s not cleaned regularly.
Address The Water
Use a net to remove any algae or debris that’s on the surface of the water. Next, you’ll need to turn off the pump and allow the water to drain out. If you wish, you can use this to water your plants.
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Clean The Fountain Itself
If there’s anything clinging to the sides of the fountain, you can use a brush to gently scrub it away. Be sure to pay special attention to the nooks and crannies where dirt and grime can build up. Clean the surfaces with a mild soap and water solution, using a sponge or rag to wipe down the surfaces. Be sure to rinse the soap off completely so that it doesn’t affect the taste of the water.
Once you’ve cleaned all of the surfaces, you’ll need to sanitize them. This can be done with a bleach solution or by using boiling water. Be sure to follow the instructions on whatever sanitizer you choose so that you don’t damage the surfaces. After you’ve sanitized the surfaces, you’ll need to rinse them off with clean water. Be sure to let the surfaces dry completely before adding any water to the fountain.
Clean The Pump, Tubing, And Fountain Head
Next, take a look at the pump and clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will involve removing it from the fountain and cleaning all of its parts with a brush and some mild soap – being careful not to damage any of the delicate parts. If you need to, soak it in vinegar overnight to loosen any ingrained mineral deposits. Finally, rinse it well and reassemble the pump back in the fountain.
You’ll also need to remove the tubing from the fountain and rinse it out with clean water. If there’s any build-up inside of it, soak it in vinegar for a few hours before rinsing again. To clean the fountainhead, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. Be careful not to use anything too abrasive if it has a delicate surface.
Clean The Filters
Filters are an important part of any fountain (whether it’s indoors or outdoors) because they help to keep the water clean and free of debris. To clean the filters and keep them running efficiently, you’ll need:
- A mild detergent
- A bucket
- A soft brush
- A hose with a spray attachment
Begin by mixing a mild detergent with warm water in a bucket. Submerge the filter in soapy water and use the soft brush to scrub away any dirt or grime. Rinse the filter thoroughly with the hose (and repeat the process if necessary) before replacing it in the fountain.
Replace The Water
Once the water has been removed and the fountain has been cleaned, you can add fresh water to it. Be sure to use clean water that has been filtered or treated. After the freshwater has been added, it’s time to add a cleaning solution. This will help to remove any build-up that may be on the fountain. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaning solution carefully. You don’t want to damage your fountain by using too much.
Once you’ve added the cleaning solution, you’ll need to turn on the pump and allow the fountain to run. Be sure to let the fountain run for the amount of time that is recommended by the manufacturer. After the fountain has been running, you can turn it off and allow it to drain. You’ll need to repeat this process every few months to ensure that your fountain stays clean. By taking these steps, you can enjoy a beautiful and clean fountain for many years to come.
Final Tips
- You should change the water in your fountain at least once a week/fortnight, or more often if you have pets or live in a hot climate.
- If you notice any build-up on the pump, clean it with vinegar or a commercial cleaning solution specifically designed for fountains.
- If you notice that your fountain water is starting to get murky, you can add a bit of vinegar to help clear it up. Just pour in a cup or so and let it sit for a few hours before turning on the fountain. You may need to do this a few times to get the water completely clear. If you have fish in your fountain, you’ll need to be careful not to use too much vinegar as it can be harmful to them.
Hopefully, you now understand how to clean the water in your fountain. Whilst this regular activity may cost you time and money it’ll be worth it for the benefits you receive. You’ll be able to enjoy this beautiful water feature in your backyard or garden, safe in the knowledge that it’s being kept in pristine condition.
