Fountains are a great addition to your garden, but it takes a lot of work to keep it that way. A weather-beaten path can still look attractive, but a dry, dirty fountain can ruin the entire look of your garden. Indeed, even the most expensive fountains won�t last long if not given proper care. Here�s how you can take care of your fountain and make sure it lasts for years.
CLEANING
Copper: For powder-finished copper, use a wax cleaner every two to three months and wipe dry areas every other day to prevent water spots. Natural copper finishes don�t need much maintenance, but if you want to delay patina formation, wipe daily with furniture polish.
Steel: Simply wipe clean with a damp sponge or soft cloth. Don�t use bleach or anything containing bleach�this will not only discolor the steel, but also eat away at the pump.
Glass/Acrylic: Use glass or plastic polish to remove dust and water stains. Be sure to remove the water before cleaning, as the solution can damage the pump. Don�t use window cleaning or scouring compounds. To remove scratches from acrylic, use an abrasive-free plastic polish or a restoration kit.
Stone/Ceramic/Marble: Wipe at least once a month with a cleaning solution and soft cloth. If the stone is painted or coated, use milder solutions to keep from damaging the finish.
WINTERIZING
Cold weather is the biggest threat to fountains, especially the large stone ones. Some areas expand more than others, which can cause considerable splitting and cracking over the years. To minimize this, don�t let water collect and freeze in the bowls during the season. Drain all the water from the fountain before the first freeze, and if possible, keep it indoors. If it can�t be moved, get a fountain cover and line the insides with something absorbent (such as sponge, newspaper or carpet cover).
PUMP MAINTENANCE
Pump cleaning is actually one of the easier tasks, but also one of the most important. Clean your pumps regularly, preferably once a month in soft water areas and twice a month in hard water. Take the pump apart following the manufacturer�s instructions, then soak the parts in vinegar solution. This will dissolve any mineral deposits that could interfere with water flow. However, keep in mind that pumps have a life limit�a well maintained pump should last up to three years before it needs replacement.
Never let your fountain run dry. Most pumps are submersible, which means they are designed to work underwater. Put off refilling for even a few hours and you�ll return to a burned out pump. If you�re going out of town, be sure to unplug your pump before leaving.
WATER CIRCULATION
Keep fountain water running at all times. Stagnant water can breed harmful bacteria and spread disease; circulating will incorporate oxygen and inhibit bacteria growth. Drain all the water from the fountain if you have to turn off the pump for long periods. In most fountains you can use the pump to drain the water directly into a sink or bucket.
ALGAE CONTROL
Algae thrive under bright light, so it�s best to place your fountain in a shady area. If this is not an option, just change the water more often, about once a month (normal cycle is about three times a year). Clean the fountain with commercial algaecide, mouthwash, or lemon juice to prevent recurrences.
WATER LEVELS
Following proper water levels will keep your pumps in good condition. Follow the manufacturer�s recommended levels and check them every day. Instead of pouring in a fresh load occasionally, add small amounts of water over several days. This way, you avoid any drastic excess which can damage your pumps.
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