Caring For Your Fountain
Fountains, whether floor, indoor, wall or outdoor fountains, are a great way to bring the outdoors in or just enhance your outdoor living area. In order to keep your fountains running at optimum performance, there are certain maintenance steps that you need to make in order to keep your fountain flowing.
· Check the fountain’s water level and add fresh water every 2-7 days. Some fountains go through more water than others if they splash and water naturally evaporates over time.
· If the water in your fountain goes below the intake level of the pump you will hear a slurping sound coming from the fountain’s pump. This could damage your pump and cause it to burn out if you do not keep the water level up.
· If you are concerned about your fountain running out of water, it is a great idea to place it on a timer so that it will automatically turn off and on at set times.
· If your fountain begins to grow algae, you may add sea salt, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide or bleach to the water to prevent algae growth. If you add bleach or hydrogen peroxide you do not want your animals to drink this water.
· To prevent algae growth in indoor fountains, keep the fountain out of direct sunlight as sunlight promotes algae growth.
· Clean your fountain every month to three months. All parts of the fountain should be taken apart and cleaned. It is recommended that you use a toothbrush, detergent and warm water for cleaning. Clean rocks, bowls and shells in the fountain as well.
· Disassemble your fountain’s pump and clean the inside, as algae and mineral deposits commonly build up in the pump and may limit its ability to function properly.
· Fountain pumps are not designed to work outside of water and should always be immersed when running.
· Protect the area beneath your fountain from water. Plexiglas and plastic works well. Most fountains are designed to run without splashing, but if something interferes with the running water it may splash.
· For the best performance from your fountain, use rain water or distilled water in your fountain.
By following these simple steps and guidelines you will have a fountain that is a joy to hear and watch for a long time to come and a fountain that will run at optimum performance for years to come.