Maintaining a clear, functioning water fountain requires a different approach than managing a swimming pool. The contained, recirculating nature of fountain water creates a unique environment prone to mineral deposits and organic growth. This buildup of white scale and green algae can quickly compromise both the appearance and the mechanical heart of the feature. A consistent maintenance regimen addressing both the physical structure and water chemistry ensures the pump operates efficiently and keeps the water sparkling.
Draining and Deep Cleaning the Fountain Structure
Before deep cleaning, the fountain must be safely disconnected from its power source by unplugging the pump. The standing water should then be removed using a siphon, a small utility pump, or a wet vacuum. Water containing chemicals or heavy algae should not be drained directly onto landscaping or into storm drains, as the contents can be harmful to waterways.
Once the basin is empty, all decorative elements, such as stones or figurines, should be removed for separate cleaning. The interior surfaces can then be scrubbed using a soft-bristle brush, sponge, or non-abrasive cloth to remove accumulated sludge and grime. For stubborn white mineral scale or green algae stains, a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water is highly effective and safe for most fountain materials.
The pump is the mechanism most susceptible to damage and requires focused attention during cleaning. It should be carefully detached, disassembled according to instructions, and gently cleaned to remove debris and mineral buildup. The small internal impeller, which drives the water flow, can be soaked in the vinegar-water solution for 15 to 30 minutes to dissolve hard scale and prevent premature failure. After scrubbing all components and thoroughly rinsing them, the fountain is ready to be refilled.
Selecting Appropriate Water Treatments
Once the fountain is clean, the choice of water source and treatment additives plays a large part in maintaining clarity. Tap water contains dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium, which are left behind as water evaporates, leading to hard white scale on surfaces and pump parts. Using distilled water eliminates this mineral content and significantly reduces the need for frequent descaling, thereby protecting the pump’s lifespan.
If using tap water is unavoidable, specific treatment products are available to manage the mineral content and prevent scale buildup. These treatments often contain agents that bind to the minerals, keeping them suspended rather than allowing them to deposit on surfaces. To combat cloudiness, water clarifiers cause microscopic particles of organic debris to clump together, allowing them to be caught more easily by the pump’s filter.
For controlling organic growth, a distinction exists between enzyme treatments and chemical algaecides. Enzyme-based products are non-toxic, biodegradable, and work by safely breaking down organic contaminants like leaves, dirt, and sludge that algae feed on. Mild algaecides are formulated to directly kill algae, but products must be specifically labeled as non-toxic and pet-safe if wildlife or domestic animals may drink from the water. A common, pet-safe alternative is a diluted 3% hydrogen peroxide solution, which acts as an oxidizer to break down algae.
Long-Term Prevention and Maintenance
Consistent routine practices prevent the rapid return of algae and debris, protecting the fountain’s mechanical components. The most common risk to the pump is running dry, which occurs when water levels drop due to evaporation and splashing. Pumps must remain fully submerged at all times; if the water level drops too low, the pump will overheat and burn out, requiring constant topping-off, often daily in warm or windy conditions.
The placement of the fountain greatly influences the rate of algae growth, as direct sunlight provides the energy algae require for photosynthesis. Positioning the fountain in partial shade or adding nearby landscaping to provide cover can significantly slow the proliferation of green film and keep the water cooler. Moving water is also less inviting to mosquitoes, which prefer stagnant water for laying eggs, making continuous circulation a simple form of pest control.
Periodic cleaning of the pump’s filter screen is necessary to maintain proper water flow. This typically involves a quick rinse every one to two weeks, especially during seasons with heavy debris.
Winterizing the Fountain
As cold weather approaches, proper winterizing is required to prevent freeze damage, which occurs when water expands as it turns to ice and cracks the fountain material. The pump should be completely removed, cleaned, and stored indoors submerged in a bucket of water to keep its seals moist. Fountains that remain outdoors should be thoroughly drained and covered with a weatherproof material. This prevents accumulating moisture that could freeze and cause structural damage.