Outdoor Water Fountain

Although there are some smaller outdoor water fountains available, most outdoor fountains are huge. This is natural as Outdoor Water Fountains are designed to be displayed in an open space and draw the onlookers attention. Outdoor Fountains come in many different styles and finishes and are made of a variety of different materials. One of the more common materials Outdoor Fountains are made from is Concrete Cast Stone. Outdoor fountains are made to survive the weather and will if properly cared for. As they are somehow gigantic compared to the other kinds of fountains, potential buyers are concerned that maintaining an outdoor fountain would also require a colossal task!

This is not so. However big outdoor fountains are, they are still fountains—and it is a fact that water fountains are easy to maintain. We have come up with FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) that had been asked over the years since we have started our Water Fountain business. We hope that if you have apprehensions in purchasing an outdoor fountain because of some questions in your mind, this page will be able to answer your concerns. However, if you have other concerns, call us and we would be happy to explain things or give you options.

How do I clean my outdoor water fountain?

Cleaning an outdoor fountain is a bit more challenging than cleaning an indoor fountain. So if you are an indoor water fountain owner and just recently added an outdoor fountain, be ready for more work in cleaning your outdoor fountain. Basically, outdoor water fountains are more challenging to clean because of its size. Imagine getting used to a sweet, little tabletop fountain, then suddenly you have a 45 x 45x 45 , 880 pound outdoor fountain to reckon with.

Also, outdoor water fountains are exposed to the elements and would require a more detailed task on cleaning. Here’s how. Make sure that the water fountain is turned off; then drain the fountain. Detach the pump and place it aside. A guide will be given below on how to clean fountain pumps. Once you have drained the water out of the fountain, check for algae growth and white scale deposits. You will need to thoroughly clean these. Algae growth is unavoidable as wherever there is water, algae are sure to grow. You would want to take advantage of anti algae solutions. This will not totally stop the growth of algae but it will buy you time.

White scale deposits can be avoided when you use distilled water. However for outdoor water fountains, this is not practical. What you can use is No More White Scale solution on your fountain. This will help you prevent white scale deposits or lime deposits. There are also other available water fountain solutions available but be sure to check the label before using the product as some of them are hazardous to humans and animals. Now going back to cleaning your water pump. Once you have detached it from your fountain, make sure that you thoroughly clean it. Take out the back of the pump and check the propeller. What you can do is run a strong gush of water through it. You can also use a toothbrush or any long brush to clean hard to reach areas of your pump. Your pump is susceptible to algae growth and mineral build up, as this is always submerged in water. Once you have cleaned your pump and its parts, assemble, and attach to the water fountain.

Outdoor water fountain cleaning is recommended every 4-6 months.

Do I have to clean my outdoor fountain everyday?

As discussed, thorough cleaning should be done every 4-6 months. However if you are considering to have your outdoor fountain as a bird bath, you would want to check the water on a regular basis and see if it needs some changing. Having birds on your garden adds to the total “feel” of an outdoor water fountain but this means that you would have to deal with unsanitary mess. Fountain Fresh Care Free Enzymes and Care Free Birdbath Protector are both natural products that you can use on your fountain .These are safe for birds and other wildlife. There are a lot of other fountain care products available but make sure to read the label and check if its safe for humans and pets alike. Some of these products may be hazardous to your health. If birds become regular visitors in your garden, you would want empty the water, rinse the basin and then refill with clean water at least every other day.

How do I prevent and remove algae from my garden fountain?

No More Algae is a care product that you want to use on your outdoor fountain to keep algae from growing fast on your fountain. A block of Fountain Block is also effective and practicable. Avoid using bleach as this will ruin the finish of your beautiful fountain.

Does the location of my water fountain contribute to its maintenance?

You would want to take time to decide where you place your outdoor water fountain. You want your fountain to be the focal point of your garden, yet not expose it to unnecessary wear and tear. Make sure that you outdoor fountain is level. Don’t place it on rocky ground because if improperly installed, water fountains’ functionality is affected. Make sure that your fountain is not overwhelmed by overgrown shrubs or dwarfed by a big tree. Dusty areas should also be avoided as you would end up cleaning your fountain more often.
If you are planning to set up your fountain on your patio, the same tips apply. Level ground, not overshadowed by other decors and keep away from area where people always walk by to avoid dust build up.

Is my outdoor fountain in danger of being blown over by heavy winds?

If you live in an area with heavy wind, you need to be extra careful about the top of your fountain being blown over by the wind. Be extra cautious and use silicone sealant to seal the top of your water fountain to its basin. Make sure that your outdoor water fountain is level before you apply the adhesive.

What is this white dirt on my fountain and how do I get rid of it?

This is called white scale or lime deposits. This is residue from usage of tap water. This can be avoided b using distilled water for smaller fountains, however for large outdoor fountains, you can try fountain care products like care Free Enzyme water Protector and No More White Scale. If white scale has already developed on your water fountain, you can use Calcium Lime Remover (CLR) and this will clean the build up in minutes. Water and vinegar solution is also recommended.

What do I do if I have a leak in my fountain?

To test if a crack exists, don’t use your outdoor fountain for at least a week. If there is a crack, you will see it as it becomes white. For stone or fiberglass fountians, Silicone II can be used to fix small cracks.

How can I add to the look and feel of my outdoor fountain?

What do you have in mind? Would your outdoor fountain be for welcoming guest? Or a focal point in your garden? Maybe the central décor in your garden restaurant? The most important thing is knowing what you want so we can help you choose your accessories. Once you have imagined the design scheme, call us and we would be glad to share our expert advice. Outdoor fountain accessories—colored and natural stones, fountain lights, remote controls, misters, etc- are readily available and we would love to discuss your options with you.

Why aren't the lights in my outdoor fountain working anymore?

Built in lighting was the final clincher when you purchased your outdoor water fountain. But for a few days now, you notice that the lights have become dimmer. You try to check on the wires and the lighting but everything seems fine. The only thing that you have not checked is the water. Take a look now. See? The water is murky and dirty and the light cannot shine thorough because the water is not clean. It would not take an hour of your time to empty the water from your fountain and refill it with fresh water. That is just a simple task but it is going to make all the difference in exposing the beauty of your outdoor fountain lights.

Water seems to be repelling off my fountain, what can I do?

For outdoor water fountians with sealants (Trevi and Henry Studios), check the sealer. Wipe the sealant off with cloth.

How do I insert the rubber plug on the Stone Trevi Fountains?

For the right fit, use plumbers putty when inserting the plug.

How do I repair chips in the stone of my Trevi Fountain?

Trevi’s patch and color kit should be used to repair minor scrapes and chips. If you did not get this kit, contact your dealer.

What do I do with my outdoor fountain to prepare for cold winter months? 

Winterizing your outdoor water fountain may be a little daunting. It is easy for smaller water fountians as you can just drain the water out them, clean the pump and the other parts of the fountain, and store them in a dry place, away from the harsh weather. With just the right location, you can even use a small outdoor fountain indoors and take them back out when it is not so cold anymore.

With larger outdoor fountains though, winterizing may be a bit challenging as moving your fountain is not viable. What you can do is buy a water fountain cover. They are available in all sizes and some manufacturers can customize the size for you. Water fountain covers are especially designed to protect your fountain even when the temperature gets below freezing. Just make sure that you drain the water out as water when frozen, expands and this may cause your fountain to crack. You can also put blankets, towels or any absorbent materials on your water fountain basin and body. Again, just make sure that the water has been emptied.