A clear and clean water fountain enhances the look of any space and protects the mechanical components that keep it running smoothly. Neglected water features quickly develop issues ranging from unsightly algae and mineral deposits to foul odors. Maintaining clarity and hygiene is a dual process involving physical cleaning and continuous management of water chemistry. A regular routine of debris removal, surface scrubbing, and proactive water treatment ensures the longevity of the fountain and a consistently clear water flow.
Essential Manual Cleaning Procedures
Physical cleaning of the fountain basin should be performed periodically, often ranging from monthly to quarterly depending on environmental conditions and the accumulation of debris. The process begins by shutting off the fountain and draining the water from the reservoir to access all internal surfaces. Once empty, use a soft, non-abrasive sponge or cloth to wipe down the material, removing loose dirt and biofilm.
For more stubborn buildup, a mild cleaning solution is necessary to break down mineral deposits and clinging algae. A mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water, or mild dish soap and water, can be used to scrub the surfaces. The acetic acid in vinegar dissolves calcium and lime scale left by hard water, but the entire basin must be rinsed thoroughly afterward. Any residual soap or acidic solution can damage the fountain material or harm the pump over time.
Routine debris removal between deep cleanings prevents clogs and nutrient buildup. Regularly skimming the water surface with a net to remove fallen leaves, pollen, and organic matter prevents decomposition. Decomposing organic matter releases nutrients that fuel the growth of algae and bacteria, which rapidly diminishes water clarity.
Using Water Treatments to Control Growth
Water treatments supplement manual cleaning by managing the biological and chemical balance of the water itself. These additives target the causes of cloudiness and buildup, such as microscopic algae spores and dissolved minerals. These treatments are categorized by their function: controlling organic growth, preventing mineral scale, and clarifying suspended particles.
Algaecides are chemical agents designed to kill and prevent the growth of algae, which thrive in warm, sunlit fountain water. Biological treatments offer an environmentally friendly option, using beneficial bacteria and enzymes to break down organic waste. Enzymes accelerate the decomposition of materials like decaying leaves and sludge into simpler, water-soluble compounds. This natural breakdown eliminates the food source for algae, reducing its ability to flourish without harsh chemicals.
To combat the white, crusty residue caused by hard water, scale inhibitors are added. These treatments contain phosphonates that bind to calcium and other mineral ions, preventing them from forming scale on the fountain surfaces and pump components. Water clarifiers contain flocculants that cause microscopic debris and suspended solids to clump together. These larger clusters then either sink to the bottom for easier removal or are caught more effectively by the pump’s filtration system, improving overall water transparency.
Maintaining the Pump and Water Circulation
The pump requires consistent maintenance to ensure continuous water circulation. A steady flow of water inhibits the growth of stagnant water organisms and helps distribute water treatments effectively throughout the system. The most common cause of reduced flow and eventual pump failure is the accumulation of debris and mineral scale within the unit.
To clean the pump, always disconnect the power before removing it from the basin. First, clean the external intake screen, which often becomes clogged with particles like hair, sludge, and debris. Next, disassemble the pump housing to access the impeller, the small rotor that moves the water. Use a small brush, such as a toothbrush or pipe cleaner, to remove all scale and organic buildup from the impeller and its chamber.
If heavy mineral scale is present inside the pump, soaking the disassembled components in a dilute vinegar solution helps dissolve the deposits. Proper water level maintenance is a simple preventative step. Allowing the water level to drop too low causes the pump to run dry, which rapidly leads to overheating and permanent mechanical damage.