Use and care of water fountains

Fountain pumps form the crux of any indoor or outdoor water fountain. Irrespective of the material, size or cost of a water fountain the pump is the device that keeps them working smoothly. The most essential thing to ensure is that the Indoor fountain is completely submerged in water. When you first start using the water fountain you will get to know in a few days as to how often you will need to add water. This depends mostly on the atmosphere of your home and the general climate. The size of the water fountain also determines the amount of water you will need to use.

The pump should be kept clean of dirt build up and debris, since it is the pump that filters the water flowing through it. The pump can be simply removed and wiped clean. The inside of the pump should also be cleaned wherein you could use a toothbrush to clean the little nooks.

The maintenance of outdoor fountain pumps are slightly different. Since these water fountains are placed outdoors, they are more vulnerable to the onslaught of the elements. For example there might be debris like dirt, sand, leaves etc blown into the outdoor fountain by the wind. You will need to clean this on a regular basis.

Indoor water fountain would require relatively less maintenance as compared to the outdoor version, since indoor fountain not subjected to the harsh weather. But indoor fountain is still need to be calibrated slightly to adjust the level of noise thus making the most of the beautiful water sounds.

A great tip that aids in its smooth running is to keep the indoor fountain / outdoor fountain running all the time. Primarily this prolongs the life of the pump as it is not being constantly switched on and off. Secondly keeping a water fountain running all the time will keep the water clean because stagnant water accumulates dirt build up much faster as compared to water that is in motion. This is a good tip for those who think that indoor fountain should be switched off at night or when they are not at home.

To prevent the dreaded algae build up in your water fountain or indoor fountain, it would be ideal to use distilled water. However it is not absolutely necessary. In case you do not have access to distilled water try to use a fountain care product. These products come in natural variants which are non toxic for pets and other animals. These products work great for outdoor fountains where the sheer volume of water required would negate the possibility of using distilled water. Fountain care products also prevent white scale and algae build up resulting from hard water and minerals. Also change the water in your fountain regularly. Using distilled water will keep it clean for a longer time.

To keep your water fountain beautiful on the outside, you need to clean it regularly. Most fountains can be cleaned with a sponge but in case you have a copper or stainless steel water fountain the cleaning process is different specially indoor fountain. Add some algae removing solution or bleach to your water fountain to keep the water clean and prevent algae from growing around the sides.

Copper water fountains will either be in natural copper or have a powder finish over the copper. Copper cleaners should never be used on copper with a powder coat finish. It will remove the finish and give it that greenish tint known as Patina. Copper fountains can be cleaned using furniture cleaner and a soft sponge. White spots on your copper fountain can be wiped off with a calcium lime remover. Apply car wax to the fountain to give protection coating to the copper as well as to make it shine.

Stainless steel is extremely resistant to corrosion and does not age in the way copper does. The smooth surface of stainless steel also makes it difficult for bacteria to settle. These water fountains can be quite simply cleaned with a dry or wet cloth. Abrasive cleaning products should never be used on them. Bleach and any product containing bleach should also be avoided as it eats away at the material.

Since concrete expands and contracts in cold weather it is advisable to move them indoors during the winter months. if the water fountain stays outdoors, you should remove the pump and store it outdoors. The water fountain should then be covered with protective material.

Installing a UV light correctly in your water fountain will filter the water at the base and kill bacteria. This would be ideal for a wall water fountain because the light will kill bacteria in places that are harder to reach and clean. It only takes a little extra work and some handy tips to keep your lovely water fountain working smoothly and keep you relaxed. Mostly used as indoor fountain.