The key to making your small indoor fountain last is giving it the proper care and maintenance it deserves. Regardless of its size, itโs important to keep your fountain free of white scale and other deposits. You should also prevent the formation of mold in any of its components โ something that happens all too easily because itโs an accessory that involves water. Below are a few general guidelines on how to clean your fountain and keep it running well:
How Often Should I Clean It?
How often you should clean your indoor fountain varies depending on its size. If you have a small tabletop setup, clean it at least once a month. Larger wall fountains and standing fountains will need to be cleaned every other month, but as a general rule, most fountains should be cleaned at least once a month to keep everything in working order and the water running clear.
Always Keep Your Fountain Pump Submerged
The fountain pump circulates water and keeps it filtered, maintaining its cleanliness. A pump that is not submerged correctly may dry out, overheat, and burn. Itโs best to inspect your fountain and the water level daily, and add water whenever you notice it running low. Depending on the indoor climate where it is located, you may have to add fresh water to your fountain daily.
Keep the Pump Free of Debris
As it is the component that filters the water, the pump is usually the part of the fountain that sees buildup and debris first. Clean the surface with a cloth or sponge before re-submerging it back in the water. Itโs also a good idea to remove the cover if possible and clean out the insides with a toothbrush or a similar small brush. This helps your fountain stay free of bacteria.
Keep the Fountain Turned On
Constant powering off and on will degrade the longevity of your fountain pump and cause it to wear out faster than it should. Keeping it turned on at all times actually prolongs the life of your fountain. With proper care and maintenance, you may be able to keep it running for a year, and up to 5 years. Also, it helps prevent water from going stagnant, which may cause buildup and debris to stick to the other components, or turn it into a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
There is no need to turn your fountain off in the night or when you go to work. If you will be traveling for a while, asking someone to check on your fountain is a much better option than leaving it to sit, or you could empty it before you leave.
Use Distilled Water
Distilled water is the water of choice for indoor water fountains โ it helps prevent algae from building up and makes the fountain easier to clean overall. Tap water may contain metals and minerals which will cause buildup that will stick to the walls and get into the fountain pump, making it less efficient after a while. If you do not have access to distilled water, look into purchasing fountain care products that will control algae and white scale and prevent foaming. If you have pets or small children around, you may want to ensure that these products are non-toxic, all-natural, and safe.
Clean the Other Fountain Components
If your indoor fountain contains any decorative stones or crystals, take them out of the fountain and give them a thorough wash before replacing them. Do not pour clean water over stones and crystals that havenโt been properly cleaned โ theyโll just end up dirtying the water again.
With these tips and tricks, your indoor fountain will remain a calming and soothing presence in your home for years to come. If youโre not sure how to do it, it is always best to consult your setupโs instruction manual for more specific instructions.