How to Clean a Tabletop Water Fountain
- Turn It Off. The first step is the simplest: you need to turn off the fountain. ...
- Take it Apart. Pull the fountain apart and make sure every part is cleaned thoroughly. ...
- Clean the Pump. If you want your tabletop fountain to function properly, it is essential to clean the pump every quarter.
- Switch to Distilled Water. ...
- Maintenance is the Key. ...
How do I Clean my fountains?
Now rinse your fountain to remove any chemicals from the fountains walls. Take your wet/dry vacuum and remove all of the water from the basin again. Inspect your fountains basin to ensure that all stains have been removed.
How often should I Clean my tabletop water fountain?
Your tabletop water fountain needs to be cleaned every 2 to 3 months. This process ensures there is no build-up of deposits and algae, both of which can affect the efficient functioning of the fountain. However, with a few smart pointers, managing your tabletop water fountain can be a simple affair.
How do you descale a drinking fountain?
Drinking fountains need to be descaled from time to time because of a build up of hard water. Spray the fountain with a descaling solution where the it has hard water buildup, and then scrub it with a cloth soaked in the same solution until the scaling comes off.
How do you clean a table top fountain?
Add Vinegar To Your Fountain To quickly clean and freshen your indoor water fountain, add a cup or two of filtered white apple cider vinegar. Vinegar exhibits antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic properties, killing germs on contact. And best of all, it's all-natural and doesn't rely on the use of harsh chemicals.
How do you keep an indoor water fountain clean?
Normal household bleach is a very effective way to treat an indoor water feature for algae. Simply add 1-2 drops of bleach twice a month to the water in the tray. This small amount will not bleach out the stone water surface or be strong enough to leave a chlorine bleach scent, but is enough to prevent algae growth.
How do I clean my small fountain?
How to Clean Your Outdoor FountainRead The Manufacturer's Instructions. This is the easiest and one of the most important parts of your intensive algae treatment procedures. ... Drain Your Fountain. ... Rinse Your Fountain. ... Clean Your Pump. ... Clean all Spouts and Tubing. ... Clean the Fountain Basin. ... Scrub Stains Out. ... Rinse Your Fountain.More items...•
How do you clean algae from an indoor fountain?
A solution of diluted bleach with one part bleach to nine parts water can help kill and prevent algae. But use bleach with caution because it can be toxic to kids and animals. Another option is to use a mix of white vinegar and water. Vinegar is safe and is effective on algae.
Can I put bleach in my indoor fountain?
Algae can damage the fountain surface and can clog the pump causing it to overheat and burn out. Never use chlorine or bleach as an algaecide or cleaner. Chlorine can damage your pump and fountain surfaces.
What can I put in my fountain to prevent algae?
A water clarifying product is used to prevent algae growth. The elements it contains are safe for pets, making it a great product for outdoor water fountains....What you need to doSince the algae thrives on sunlight, place your fountain in a shady location. ... Use fresh distilled water for your water feature.More items...•
How do I clean my fountain with vinegar?
Use a mixture of one part water to one part white vinegar to spray down the area and kill the algae. Rinse the surface algae off the concrete with a water hose. Next, pour white vinegar directly on the surface and scrub using a toothbrush. Remove as much algae as possible.
Should I leave my water fountain on all the time?
Should I Leave My Fountain on All the Time? Fountain pumps are specifically designed to run constantly. It is hard on the pump if you constantly turn it on and off every day. The only times you should turn off the fountain pump is if you are cleaning it or if you are going to be away from it for several days.
How do I keep my fountain from turning green?
Use Distilled Water You should clean your fountain on a regular basis, every three months to prevent algae from growing on the basin or pump of your fountain. Placing your fountain in a shaded spot might also help slow algae growth.
How to clean hard water buildup on fountain?
If your fountain has hard water buildup, use a special product to help remove it, such as CLR. You can also use a mixture of half white vinegar, half water. Let the fountain soak in the solution, and then scrub it again with a gentle brush or sponge.
Why do fountains need to be descaled?
Drinking fountains need to be descaled from time to time because of a build up of hard water. Spray the fountain with a descaling solution where the it has hard water buildup, and then scrub it with a cloth soaked in the same solution until the scaling comes off. Wipe it down with clean water when you're done.
How to clean a mouthpiece?
Clean the mouthpiece. Squirt disinfectant on the mouthpiece, as well as the guard that sits over it. Use a brush to clean all around the mouthpiece and guard, including where the water comes out. Once done, use water to rinse the area thoroughly.
How high should water flow out of a fountain?
See if the water is flowing freely. The water should flow out of the mouthpiece readily, and it should lift up at least 3 inches above the fountain. The height of the stream is important because it keeps people from putting their mouths on the metal part of the fountain.
Can you remove rocks from a fountain?
You can also remove any items in the fountain, such as large rocks. Always check your manual before cleaning, as different fountains may require different cleaning methods. Before you take out the pump, you can connect a hose to it and use it to pump the water out of the fountain into a bucket or outside.
How to get stains out of fountain basin?
These stains can be removed with the use of a toothbrush and an approved cleaning agent. If you do not have access to any fountain basin cleaner, dish soap can work for most stains but some elbow grease may be required.
How to clean algae off of fountain?
Rinse Your Fountain. Rinse your fountain with clean water. Make sure to clear all the lines by running the water through the lines. Use a rag and water to rinse your fountain and see what algae stains may require additional attention in order to be removed.
What is an outdoor fountain?
Outdoor fountains are beautiful pieces of art that can be used to spruce up a backyard of any size. These fountains sometimes have sculptures or recognizable figurines as a part of their design. The size of outdoor fountains will typically depend on your personal preferences.
Do you need a wet vac for a fountain?
Depending on the size of your fountain, a wet/dry vac may be required to get the fountain basin completely drained. Be sure to unplug your pump prior to draining your water fountain or you can burn out the pump's motor.
Do small fountains need to be cleaned?
Often, the question is raised in regards to how outdoor fountains can be cleaned. Smaller fountains will take less time to clean, unless there are lots of intricate details that require more time.
Is Fountec algaecide safe for pets?
Fountec Algaecide and Clarifier will keep algae away, but is not an abrasive chemical. When used as directed, it is safe for all animals, including birds and pets who like to drink out of your fountain. It is a little too strong for fish though.
Can you pressure wash a fountain?
Go back over your fountain basin with fresh water. Depending on the material that your fountain is made from, you may be able to use high-pressure washing techniques. Cast stone fountains can be pressure washed for an extra clean look.
What Happens During These Steps For Cleaning A Fountain
Fountain inspection. We like to know what we’re getting into before we just start cleaning. It’s also a great time to make sure everything’s working properly. During this step, we’ll check out the motor, pump, and any additions like lights.
How To Clean Algae From A Fountain
There are a couple of ways to clean algae from a fountain. You can scrape algae off, use a net to fish it out, or use chemicals.
How To Keep Outdoor Fountain Water Clean
One of the best ways to keep fountain water clean is by using aquatic plants. Aquatic plants absorb the same nutrients and toxins that algae feed on. They aerate the water too, which helps with algae prevention.
Step 1 – Turn It Off
Step 2 – Take It Apart
- Pull the fountain apart and make sure every part is cleaned thoroughly. Now you may want to purchase specialized fountain cleaning agents to get the job done, but you can also use kitchen vinegar, which has the same effect on build-up at no additional cost. Soak the fountain parts in vinegar solution, or scrub them with vinegar to get rid of stains. Once cleaned, dry the parts prop…
Step 4 – Switch to Distilled Water
- If you want your fountain to last its promised lifetime, switch your water supply from tap (or spring) water to distilled water. Non-distilled water tends to be rich in minerals. It may also be loaded with chemicals and other impurities. These tend to build up along your fountain over time and disrupt flow of water. With distilled water, you eliminate this problem.
Step 5 – Maintenance Is The Key
- Regular maintenance is the key to increasing pump (and fountain) life. Keep an eye on water levels on a daily (or weekly) basis. This way you can regularly replenish the water lost by evaporation. This will ensure there is no imbalance in water levels, thereby decreasing the risk of your pump burning out. It is also important to keep an eye on the weather. In the summer month…