Fountains are beautiful additions to your garden, but if you don't clean them regularly, you'll notice algae growth and stinky, murky water. Here's how to prevent problems.
1. Skim debris out daily. This is the best way to prevent problems.
2. Do a full cleaning once a week (some people do this once a season, but I find it is better to do it once a week). If your fountain came with instructions, read that first.
3. Turn off the fountain pump and remove it.
4. Drain the water. A lot of fountains have drain plugs. If yours has one, use it. It makes the job easier.
5. Remove any leftover debris.
6. Wipe the fountain thoroughly with a rag. If necessary, use a soft bristled tooth brush to remove algae. White vinegar can be used for stubborn stains, but test in a small area to make sure it won't hurt your fountain.
7. Rinse the fountain with a hose.
8. Clean the pump by removing the cover and picking out any debris that might be inside.
9. Wipe the inside and outside of the pump and replace the cover.
10. Re-fill your fountain with clean, fresh water. There are special cleaning enzymes you can add to help keep the water clean. You can get these at fountain supply stores.
Enjoy!
i so need to do this--thanks!
ReplyDeleteIt's not the most exciting job, but it helps keep things pretty and working. Good luck cleaning yours.
DeleteI think I'm too lazy to do all that and will take a pressure washer to mine - it's just a bird bath, not a fountain, but it's looking a little skuzzy.
ReplyDeleteNow that's doing it the quick way. Hopefully your pressure washer won't ruin any of the finish of your birdbath.
DeleteVery informative, thanks.
ReplyDeleteSure, I hope others with fountains find the information helpful, too.
DeleteI'd need to get a fountain first! We've talked about it. Maybe I'll surprise my wife with one this summer.
ReplyDeleteShe'd probably really like it.
DeleteIf I ever get a fountain, I'll have to keep this in mind.
ReplyDeletehttp://joycelansky.blogspot.com
I'll have the information under gardening tips if you ever need to read it again.
DeleteThanks for the tips--much needed one!
ReplyDeleteGlad you found them helpful.
DeleteWe love keeping fountains around here. The white vinegar tip is staying with me--how have I gone this long without knowing how to clean stuff?.
ReplyDeleteWhen I stepped into the showroom, I felt like I was in Provence.
ReplyDeleteThe scent of lavender and the sound of running water from the antique limestone fountain along with the incredible selection of French garden antiques were really impressive. If you are looking for very large garden ornaments, French planters, etc. this is the showroom to visit. A total of 15,000 square feet of the most incredible French garden antiques, French limestone fountains, fireplace mantels and the most selective collection of planters from France with immediate availability. Each piece feels real, the atmosphere is so calming and rural. A true and unique gem to be found in West Palm Beach! Their website is www.authenticprovence.com
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