Fountains >> fountain maintenance
Keep
Your
Fountain Clean
with
Fountec & Protec
click on photo for special offer
The First
Question everyone asks is, "How Do I Keep My Fountain
Clean"
Answer
1.
Rain water
2. Distilled water
3. Use any kind of water and with Fountec
and Protec added.
Water Level
Check the water level daily for the first week to note amount of
evaporation. You will be surprised at how much water is lost to
air as the fountain humidifies your environment. Keep the water
level as high as possible for best pump operation. Like oil in your
car's motor, the pump motor functions best when it has plenty of
fluid circulating. If you hear the motor drawing water the level
is too low. If you are away on vacation shut the fountain off. Other
than that it can run 24 hours a day. This unit does not have an
on off switch. You can buy yourself an extension strip that has
a switch. It will simplify turning it on and off. Also different
water levels create a different sound in some fountains.
Changing Water
Siphon out water after six weeks to check sediment level (do not
take fountain apart). With a turkey baster or a small hose as a
siphon drain the water. Dust, hair and lint will collect in the
bottom of the bowl, pulled from the air by moving water. Refill
with clean tap water.
How To Keep
Mineral Deposits from forming in my fountain
Three Answers That I have come up with (2/20/2006)
Use one the three below
1. Rain water
2. Distilled water
3. Use any kind of water and with Fountec and Protec added.
When mineral grains of different density are moved by flowing water,
the less dense grains will be most rapidly moved, and a separation
of high-density and low-density grains can be effected. Mineral
deposits formed as a result of gravity separation based on density
are called placer deposits.
Additives to the Water
A few drops of bleach added to the water will inhibit algae growth.
There are two other products used for fountains which minimize unwanted
growth. These are Fountec and Protec
which are available on this site. If there is wood in the fountain
you want to use a product to keep mold away. Check product instructions
for compatibility with plants and with safety around animals who
may possibly drink out of the fountain.
Personalities of Pumps
If the pump does not start up when you plug it in, unplug and try
again. If that does not work give it a little tap. Sometimes they
need a little help. If the water flow is slowing the pump probably
needs cleaning.
When to Do a Thorough Cleaning
Observe how the fountain comes apart, because you will be putting
it back together. When the cord gets slimy, the rocks feel slippery,
or you see visible sediment, prepare to take the whole fountain
to the sink for complete cleaning and fountain rebuilding. Regular
cleaning about every 3 months preserves the life of the fountain
pump. Debris around the intake valve and propeller can slow and
strain the motor.
Cleaning Fountain and Pump
Remove shells, crystals, small stones and plant cuttings and rinse
separately. Carry the fountain bowl to the sink and remove the remaining
rocks and pump. Some fountains have a degree of fragility. When
moving the cluster of stones, reach into fountain bowl and pick
up from the bottom. If the hose is glued to the top of a rock it
can be separated at the pump. Wiggle off the front part of the pump
that covers the propeller. Pull the propeller out and clean and
rinse thoroughly. When in doubt, follow manufacturer's instructions
(included with your fountain). Carefully clean residue from other
visible parts of the pump, including the suction cup feet. After
setting the pump back in its place, the flow can be changed by a
switch on the pump. Setting it too high can also create a splash.
This fountain is for indoor use. If it is used outdoors in freezing
conditions the pump may be damaged.
Other Ingredients
A few drops of bleach will help keep fountain clean. Vinegar is
used if the bowl is glass - beware vinegar is very acidic and a
may eat the surface from resin and plastic bowls. Lime-A-Way will
dissolve shells (which are made of lime) so make sure to rinse the
bowl well after cleaning if using this product.
For FAQ on Fountains and Foggers click here
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