Garden wall fountains can add a unique and attractive element to any landscape. The sound of the running water can be quiet soothing as well, and since they are mounted to a wall they require little space and are an ideal solution for those who have a limited garden area. With the vast array of styles and design available it is easy to find a garden wall fountain that fits your specific tastes and needs.
Like anything else, the fountain needs the proper care and maintenance to insure that it works properly. Following the simple tips below will help extend the life of the garden wall fountain and keep it operating correctly for many enjoyable years.
Routine Maintenance
Clean out the fountain. Debris can easily collect in and on the fountain. Remove any leaves, insects, twigs and other debris. This will help keep the look of your unit fresh and clean.
Check the fountain's water levels daily. Until you get the sense of have fast the water evaporates in your fountain, check the water daily and add fresh water when needed. Letting the water drop below the pump's intake level could easily cause the pump to burn out, damaging it beyond repair.
Sunlight and water combined is the perfect breeding ground for algae. To prevent the growth of algae add vinegar, hydrogen peroxide or sea salt to the water. Alternatively, bleach can be added to the water but it is not recommended because of the possible harm to animals.
Cleaning the Fountain
The garden wall fountain will need a thorough cleaning every three to four months. All the water must be drained before cleaning the fountain. Once all the water has been removed, take a rag and with mild soap, wipe the inside of the water reservoir. Using a toothbrush can help get into those small areas that a rag may miss. Use this time to wipe down the whole unit including any decorations that are inside, on or around the fountain.
Make sure to completely rinse the fountain to insure the removal of any soap residue.
It is also a good idea to dissemble the pump and clean the inside to remove any algae or calcium build up. Removing the pump from the unit and letting it soak over night in vinegar can make it easier to clean calcium residue.
Using rain or distilled water is the best option for garden wall fountains because they do not contain chemicals that can build up in your fountain and pump.
Winter Care
When the temperature drops water can freeze and expand which could crack the fountain and cause harm to the pump. During those cold winter months, it is recommended to drain all water out of the fountain. Remove the pump and store inside. Dry the fountain completely and cover with a non-porous material. Once the weather begins to warm you can enjoy the fountain once again.
Remember that taking the proper steps will extend the life of the garden wall fountain. If available, read the instruction manual that comes with the fountain. This will give you an idea of the recommended cleaning method for that specific unit.
Resources
ProsperityFountain.com: Water Fountain Care and Cleaning
SerenityHealth.com: Guide to Water Fountain Cleaning
Amanda Flanigan - Amanda, who writes under the pen name Kitty Cruiser, has had a camera in one hand and a pen and paper in the other since she was a wee ...
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