Garden fountains provide a tranquil, aesthetic feature to any outdoor space. However, the constant presence of water and exposure to the elements cause algae, mineral deposits, and debris to accumulate. Regular cleaning is non-negotiable for maintaining the fountain’s appearance and protecting the water pump. Unchecked buildup leads to clogs, poor water flow, and premature pump failure.
Essential Supplies and Initial Steps
The cleaning process begins with gathering the necessary supplies to tackle both organic and mineral buildup safely. You will need a soft-bristled brush, an old toothbrush for tight spaces, a bucket, and a garden hose for rinsing. Cleaning solutions should include mild, neutral pH dish soap, and white distilled vinegar, which is effective for dissolving mineral scale. Safety is paramount, so always wear rubber gloves and eye protection when working with cleaning agents.
Before draining, the fountain must be completely de-energized by disconnecting the pump’s power source at the wall outlet or breaker. Never reach into the water to remove the pump before unplugging it, as electricity and water pose a serious hazard. Once the power is safely off, drain the existing water from the basin using a drain plug, a small utility pump, or by scooping it out. Remove the pump, decorative stones, and figurines to allow complete access to the basin surfaces.
Scrubbing the Basin and Removing Deposits
Two primary types of buildup plague garden fountains: slimy algae and hard mineral scale. Algae, a biological growth, is best removed by scrubbing the fountain surfaces with the soft-bristled brush and a mild soap solution. For more stubborn, slimy patches, a dilute bleach solution (one part bleach to ten parts water) can be used to sanitize porous surfaces, though a thorough rinse afterward is mandatory to prevent damage to the fountain material.
Mineral scale, often appearing as a white, chalky residue, is composed primarily of calcium and magnesium carbonates left behind as water evaporates. This hard, inorganic deposit will not respond to soap and scrubbing alone. Treating mineral scale requires an acid, with white distilled vinegar being the safest household option. Apply vinegar directly to the deposits and allow it to sit for about 15 minutes to chemically soften the buildup. For extremely heavy scale, commercial lime-removing products can be used, but verify the cleaner is safe for your specific fountain material before application. Rinse the entire fountain structure thoroughly with a garden hose to remove all cleaning residue.
Disassembling and Cleaning the Water Pump
The water pump is the most vulnerable component, as it constantly pulls water through its internal mechanisms, making it the first place for debris and mineral deposits to cause clogs. Start by removing the pump from the basin and detaching any attached tubing. Most submersible pumps have a removable front cover or intake screen, which must be carefully opened to access the internal components. This screen typically catches larger debris like leaves and sediment before they can enter the motor housing.
Inside, you will find the impeller, a small component with fins responsible for circulating the water. The impeller is usually held in place by a small cover or magnet and can be gently removed with small pliers or by hand. Debris, hair, or mineral scale often bind the impeller shaft, preventing it from spinning freely and reducing water flow. Soak the disassembled parts, especially the impeller and its housing, in a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water for at least 30 minutes to dissolve any internal mineral scale. Use a small brush, like an old toothbrush or a pipe cleaner, to meticulously scrub the impeller blades and the internal chamber before reassembling the pump in the reverse order.
Routine Care for Clear Water
Routine maintenance will prevent the rapid return of algae and scale after deep cleaning. Check the water level daily, especially during warm weather, and top off the fountain to ensure the pump remains fully submerged. Using distilled water or treated tap water significantly reduces the introduction of hard minerals that form scale. Changing the entire water volume every one to two weeks prevents the concentration of nutrients that fuel algae growth. Introducing specialized fountain treatments, such as enzyme-based clarifiers or non-toxic algaecides, can help maintain water clarity between deep cleanings. For areas with freezing winter temperatures, the pump must be removed, dried, and stored indoors, and the fountain should be drained and covered to prevent cracking.