Should You Run The Water Feature All The Time?

How Often Should I Clean My Fountain?

The presence of a water feature can dramatically enhance the appearance of your home or garden. However, it's important to understand the amount of time and effort needed to maintain a fountain properly. This means looking at how often you should clean it, the types of systems that control it, and also how to clean and maintain it correctly. 
When it comes to properly maintaining the functioning of a water feature, the most frequent tasks are cleaning and examining it for any signs of wear and tear. Generally, an outdoor fountain should be cleaned on a monthly basis to ensure its efficient workings. During this process, you should examine the pump and other components for any debris that could hinder its prime output. Additionally, you should look into the basin or pond and remove any algae or debris present in the running water. Furthermore, make sure to check the pH levels of the running water too.

Water Feature System Controls

When it comes to controlling the performance of your water feature, there are several options at your disposal. You can find devices such as timers, remote controls, and on/off switches. Timers enable you to decide when the water is to run and for how long. Additionally, you can install remote controls that enable you to control the flow of the water with a touch of a button. Alternatively, you can install individual on/off switches to control the performance of the overall system. Whichever system you decide to go for, it's important to remember that the water feature must always be plugged in at all times. 

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How Do You Clean An Outdoor Fountain?

In order to keep your water feature running efficiently, you must clean it regularly. For an outdoor fountain, it is best to unplug the power source and clean the inside using a combination of vinegar and warm water. You can use a garden hose to rinse the entire area and then allow it to drain before plugging it back in. Additionally, you can use a brush or sponge to access those hard-to-reach places. Whilst cleaning, it's important to note that you should never use abrasive materials to wipe away dirt and grime.

Do Not Stop the Fountain Flow

It's important to remember not to turn off the fountain in order to maintain its functionality and longevity. If you do shut it off, it will leave it vulnerable to contaminants, create a breeding ground for algae, and eventually damage the pump. The reason for this is that the water prevents wastewater from building up around the fountain and clogging the motor, increasing the life expectancy of the pump.

Check Water Levels and Add as Necessary

If your water feature is sequenced by a timer, it's important to regularly fill your fountain and check the water levels, especially during times of drought or prolonged periods of high temperatures. During these times, it's possible for the water level to lower drastically and create air pockets within the fountain, leading to the pump becoming dry which could cause irreparable damage. To avoid this, you should check your water levels and add more water if necessary. To do this, first, turn off the fountain and unplug it. Then use a container to slowly add water into the pond or reservoir. Once it reaches its optimum level, you can plug it back in and turn it on. 

In conclusion, it's important to ensure that your water feature runs optimally throughout the year. In order to achieve this, you should make sure to clean it regularly, assess its components, use appropriate systems to control it, and add water as necessary. All of these factors will help to increase the life expectancy of your water feature and also make it look aesthetically pleasing for years to come.

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