Outdoor water features are gorgeous additions to any landscape, but — as with most other things in life — beauty requires a little time and effort. Outdoor water features like ponds and fountains are easily enjoyed in the spring and summer seasons, but what happens during a Tennessee winter, when the outdoor world is dormant and everything is freezing? Unfortunately, it isn’t as simple as turning off a switch until next spring.
Today, our Kingsport landscape professionals at Promier Landscapes are offering tips on how to winterize your outdoor water fountain to take the guesswork out of it and help the process seem less daunting.
Unplug and clean the pump
When temperatures drop below freezing, it can wreak havoc on your pump if it’s left in water. The way to ensure your pump stays in good shape and is ready for spring is to remove it if possible, clean any debris or algae from it and store it. Once everything is rinsed and thoroughly dried, the pump is ready to be stored for winter.
Remove water from fountains
Many manufacturers have quick drain plugs to help with this task. If your fountain doesn’t have that, remove water with a cup.
Clean
You can use a scrub brush and warm soapy water to clean any algae or other buildup off the surface of your water feature. Be sure to thoroughly rinse any soap away before drying. To remove any potential calcium and lime buildup, you can apply a vinegar and water mixture, and let it sit for 10 or 15 minutes before rinsing it off. (Do not use vinegar on copper water features.)
Dry
It’s important to keep fountains dry when winterizing them. Between ice, snow and rain during winter, the freezing and thawing cycles could permanently damage your water feature.
Line the basin
Line the basin with burlap sacks or towels to absorb any water that may find its way into the basin over winter. The tiny pores on fountain concrete can absorb small amounts of water which, when frozen, can cause chips in the concrete.
Cover
Once you know the fountain is completely dry, cover it with either a tarp tied with ropes or a cover that is designed specifically for water fountains.
Winterize water features
If you have any questions about ways to winterize your specific water feature, give our Kingsport landscape specialists at Promier Landscapes a call at (423) 872-2988, or contact us online today. We have been serving the Tri-cities area, helping create and maintain beautiful, eco-friendly lawns and landscapes, for 20 years.