Efficiently This Spring
As the days begin to get warmer, we begin to spend more time outdoors, and it’s time to retrieve the water fountain. Fountains transform an outdoor space into a tranquil environment and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, giving it a more perceived value.
It’s crucial to follow specific steps to ensure that you make the most of your water feature this spring. In addition to ensuring that your fountain runs efficiently, you will also require the right pump. The below steps include regular maintenance to help prolong the life of your pond fountain.
Steps for a fountain spring tune-up
Step 1: Retrieving fountain
It’s necessary to keep your fountain covered or stored away during the winter months for protection from harsh weather conditions. The water is emptied from the fountain to prevent it from freezing. Then, the fountain is cleaned and placed where it remains dry until the winter ends. Now is a good time to inspect the fountain for cracks or damage. Seal any cracks or small holes with silicone compound and allow ample time for drying before you proceed.
Step 2: Check the pump
Now that your fountain is ready to go, it’s time to install the pump. Typically, fountains have a reservoir or space where the pump connects to tubing. Install the pump before connecting to a power source. Consider adding LED pond lights to enhance the look of your water feature and will significantly improve the look of your fountain at night from many angles.
Outdoor water pumps are exposed to harsh weather, wildlife, and debris from grass, dirt, and leaves. All of this causes wear and tear on your fountain. Regular cleaning is necessary to help extend the life of your pump. If you notice significant problems that may affect the performance of your fountain, consider replacing it with a new pump. There are many options available for large fountains for large
Be mindful of appropriate sizing to ensure you select one that is the best fit for your water feature.
Step 3: Fountain cleaning
Your fountain likely collected dust during storage. Clean out the bowls, tiers, and other parts of your fountain as part of the spring tune-up. Smaller fountains could be cleaned in a sink, and for larger fountains, you can use a bucket of water. Wipe down the fountain with a nonabrasive sponge and a mild detergent. Scrub the fountain until all algae build-up has been removed. Then, rinse and wipe down the pan with a clean rag before installing the clean pump.
Step 4: Check for leaks
The next step is filling the fountain with water, and to prevent leaking, avoid adding too much water and remove some water if needed. For persistent leaks, turn off the fountain, drain it, and dry to inspect for a pinhole or cracks. It’s much easier to detect the source of the leaks when the fountain is dry. Seal cracks or pinholes with silicone compound and allow the recommended drying time before running the fountain again.
Step 5: Troubleshooting
Once you have filled your fountain and inspected for leaks, lookout for signs of other potential problems. For example, the pump is not functioning as expected. Unplug it and do a maintenance check by opening the pump cover to checking for debris on the impeller or build-up on the internal parts. Carefully clean the impeller with warm water and brush with soft bristles. Next, reinstall the pump and turn on the fountain again. It should be working as expected. For further issues, you may need to call a professional technician to resolve the problem.
Step 6: Add algae and white scale prevention solutions
After your fountain has been filled and you have your pump running correctly, add some algae prevention solutions. You should also include some white scale control solutions to prevent white scale build-up in the fountain. Make sure to follow the directions and add the appropriate amounts to keep your fountain clean and lasting longer. The right products should have features, including:
- EPA registered to kill algae
- Safe for fish, aquatic animals, and plants
- Green water or string algae management
- Keeping your fountain mosquito free
- Controlling sludge, mineral build-up, and cloudy water
- Prevention of organic build-up in the pump and water lines
It is necessary to add these solutions. This will make your fountain completely ready for the warm seasons.
Bottom line
With springtime at our doorstep, now is the perfect time to tune-up your fountain. You will be able to look forward to enjoying the tranquility of your large pond water feature.
Follow these steps above to ensure that your water feature runs efficiently, and you’re your expectations. To prolong the life of your fountain, perform regular maintenance, prevent algae infestation, and replace the pump when necessary, and you will get years of enjoyment.