Outdoor Fountain Cleaning

The key to a clean outdoor fountain is preventative care. Simple routine check-ups reduce unsightly scales and smelly algae. The result is aesthetically pleasing and economically proactive. Consistent maintenance helps stop problems before they occur. It protects your financial investment, extends the life of your outdoor fountain and ensures the sanctity of its tranquil beauty.

General Proactive Care Follow the manufacturer's manual. Proper maintenance is contingent on a fountain's type, size and material. Maintain proper water levels. Pumps must be totally submerged to work and low levels cause damage. Periodically clean debris, wipe down parts and check their working order. Change the water and clean every 2 to 3 months. Drain and bring garden fountain inside during winter. Cleaning the Outdoor Fountain Unplug pump. Remove any stones or pebbles and clean. Remove pump and clean. See instructions below. Empty water. Clean using soap or a mild cleaner and a soft cloth. For tougher stains, use a non-abrasive brush. Rinse thoroughly. Avoid using bleach; it harms animal life and deteriorates a fountain's interior liner and pump components. Put clean pump back. Refill with water.

White Scale Tips

• Refill outdoor fountain with distilled water. Unlike tap water, it doesn't contain minerals.
• Treat water with preventative products that reduce build-up.
• Use products formulated to clean off mineral deposits like CLR (Calcium Lime Remover).
• Soak a mixture of vinegar and water on scales to break down the deposits.

Algae Tips

• Treat water with algae-preventative products.
• Use a skinner to filter algae from water.
• Algae needs sun to grow, so place your outdoor fountain in the shade.

Cleaning the Pump

• Unplug and remove.
• Remover pump cover.
• Remove debris around motor.
• Use warm soapy water to clean and an old toothbrush to scrub away any stains.
• Remove algae by soaking pump in vinegar.
• Replace cover and put pump back in outdoor fountain.