What can I put in my indoor fountain to keep the water clean?

Having an indoor fountain can be a great way to add a soothing ambiance to any room. The gentle sound of trickling water has a calming effect that can lower stress levels and blood pressure. Indoor fountains come in all shapes and sizes, from small tabletop fountains to larger floor models. They typically consist of a water reservoir, pump, tubing and some kind of decorative fountainhead where the water flows out.

What are the benefits of an indoor fountain?

There are several benefits that indoor fountains can provide:

• Create a relaxing environment – The sound of flowing water is naturally soothing and can help reduce stress.
• Increase humidity – Fountains add moisture to dry indoor air, which can be especially helpful in the winter.
• Filter the air – The water movement can help circulate dust and allergens out of the air.
• Mask unwanted noises – The fountain sounds can help cover up noises from outside or appliances.
• Provide visual interest – Fountains have pleasing shapes and water patterns that are nice to look at.

Overall, an indoor fountain enhances ambiance, humidity, and air quality in a home or office space. The relaxing sights and sounds create a pleasant environment for both living and working.

What kind of maintenance is required for indoor fountains?

To keep an indoor fountain operating properly and the water clean, regular maintenance is required. Here are some fountain maintenance tasks that should be performed on a regular basis:

• Cleaning – The fountain components and reservoir need periodic cleaning to remove mineral deposits, dirt, and algae buildup. A soft cloth and mild cleaner work well for the fountain surfaces. The reservoir and tubing may need an occasional thorough cleaning as well.
• Filter cleaning/replacement – Most fountains have a filter to help catch debris and keep the water clean. This filter needs to be checked and cleaned or replaced per the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Water changes – The water in the fountain should be changed completely on a regular basis to prevent excessive algae and mineral buildup, usually every 2-4 weeks.
• Pump inspection – Check that the pump is submerged and functioning properly when doing water changes.
• Supply line inspection – Examine the tubing supplying water to the fountainhead for crimps or cracks.

Following the fountain manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations is important for optimal performance and longevity of the fountain.

What are some good options to keep indoor fountain water clean?

There are several methods and products available to help keep water in an indoor fountain clean:

Fountain Cleaners

Specialty fountain cleaners can be added to the water per the product instructions to help prevent algae growth, reduce mineral deposits, and kill microorganisms. Some popular options include:

• Fountain Fresh – All-natural enzymatic cleaner
• Fountain Clear – Cleans and clarifies water
• Microbe-Lift BMC – Controls buildup and odors

Bleach or Vinegar

Using a small amount of regular household bleach or white vinegar can help sanitize and deodorize fountain water. About 1 teaspoon per gallon of water is typically recommended. These should be reapplied every few days.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is an effective sanitizer that breaks down into just water and oxygen. Add 1 ounce of 3% hydrogen peroxide per gallon of water every few days.

Ionizer or Water Clarifier

An ionizer or clarifying product adds minerals to the water that can help restrict algae and bacterial growth. Examples include SeaKlear Water Clarifier and CrystalBlue Ionizer.

Ultraviolet Light

A UV water sterilizer uses ultraviolet light to kill microorganisms. This can be used in conjunction with fountain cleaners to keep water pure.

Distilled Water

Using distilled water eliminates minerals and impurities that can cause buildup and growth in fountain water. However, distilled water should be avoided for fountains with plastic or rubber components, as it can cause deterioration.

Filtered Water

Filtered water from a home or commercial water filtration system results in cleaner fountain water. Filtering removes chlorine and heavy metals that can stain fountain surfaces.

Bottled Spring Water

Filling the fountain with bottled spring water rather than tap water can minimize mineral content and contaminants. This avoids chemicals like chlorine and fluoride found in most municipal water sources.

Regular Cleaning

No matter what type of water treatment is used, regularly cleaning all fountain components is key to maintaining clean water.

What should be avoided in indoor fountain water?

There are a few things that should not be added to indoor fountains as they can actually cause problems:

• Soap or detergent – Can cause foaming and cloudy water.
• Salt – Can corrode fountain parts and leave mineral deposits behind.
• Soda – Soda can make water sticky and clog fountain tubes.
• Milk – Milk curdles quickly and breeds bacteria.
• Pennies or coins – The copper can discolor water and stain fixtures.
• Essential oils – Oils make water slick and can damage pump seals.
• Too much bleach – More than 1 teaspoon per gallon can be corrosive.

Any type of oil, soap, food, or strong chemical should be avoided. Only products specifically designed for fountains should be used.

How often should I change the water in my indoor fountain?

The water in an indoor fountain should be changed completely every 2-4 weeks. The frequency depends on factors like:

• Fountain size – Small tabletop fountains may only need biweekly changes. Large floor fountains may need weekly changes.
• Location – Fountains in sunlight may require more frequent changes than ones in darker spots.
• Amount of use – High traffic areas where the fountain runs all the time need more changes.
• Additives used – Some additives like bleach require more frequent water replenishment.
• Filtration – Whether the fountain has a filter affects water cleanliness.

Checking the water quality and clarity is the best way to determine if it’s time for a water change. When water starts looking cloudy or dirty, that’s a sign it should be refreshed.

What are signs my indoor fountain water needs changing?

Here are some signs that the water in an indoor fountain needs to be changed:

• Cloudy, murky water
• Greenish tint from algae growth
• Dirt or debris accumulation
• Slimy buildup on fountain surfaces
• Bad odors coming from the water
• Mineral deposits like white scale
• Reduced or irregular water flow
• Pump straining or making noise

Once the water is no longer crystal clear and pleasant smelling, it’s time for a complete dump and refresh. Following the manufacturer’s recommended water change schedule can help avoid many of these issues.

What is the best way to change water in an indoor fountain?

When it’s time to change an indoor fountain’s water, follow these steps for best results:

1. Unplug the fountain pump and let any moving water come to a complete stop.
2. Scoop out any rocks or decorations from the basin.
3. Use a sponge to wipe down the fountain surfaces, cleaning off any dirt or buildup.
4. Empty out all old water from the fountain basin and tubing.
5. Rinse out the empty fountain basin thoroughly.
6. Wipe down or soak any detachable parts like the pump or tubing.
7. Refill with fresh water, using filtered, distilled, spring or treated water.
8. Plug the pump back in and let the fountain run for 15 minutes to stabilize.
9. Add any cleaners, clarifiers or ionizers to the fresh water per product directions.
10. Replace rocks and decorations.

Doing a complete water drain, clean, and refresh helps keep fountain water clean and optimally clear.

How can I make indoor fountain water last longer between changes?

To maximize the time between complete indoor fountain water changes, try these tips:

• Use filtered or distilled water to fill the fountain to minimize contaminants.
• Add a fountain cleaner or clarifier like Fountain Fresh Clear to the water when filling per package instructions.
• Install a small fountain filter or in-line carbon filter if your fountain didn’t come with one.
• Keep the fountain away from direct sunlight to inhibit algae growth.
• Avoid overcrowding the fountain basin with too many rocks or decorations.
• Use bleach, vinegar or hydrogen peroxide to sanitize the water every 3-5 days.
• Consider installing a UV sterilizer to kill microorganisms.
• Always unplug the pump before performing any maintenance tasks.
• Check and clean the existing fountain filter monthly.
• Set a reminder to change the water at least every 4 weeks.

Taking steps to optimize water clarity and reduce contaminants allows for less frequent complete water changes.

Can I use tap water in my indoor fountain?

Tap water can be used in indoor fountains, but comes with some disadvantages. The main issues with using tap water include:

• Minerals – Tap water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that can leave white scale buildup on fountain surfaces.
• Chlorine – Municipal tap water is treated with chlorine that can have an unpleasant odor.
• Contaminants – Tap water may contain small amounts of heavy metals and other impurities.
• Hardness – Hard tap water can make buildup worse and clog fountain tubing and pumps.

That being said, tap water is fine to use if:

• You thoroughly clean and change the water frequently.
• You use a clarifying or sanitizing additive in the water.
• You don’t mind mineral deposits on decorative fountain parts over time.
• You have a whole house water filter that removes chlorine and sediments.

Using part tap and part distilled or filtered water is one option to moderate the issues. Overall, tap water will require the most cleaning and changes to keep indoor fountains fresh.

What types of indoor fountains are best for clean water?

Certain styles and designs of indoor fountains lend themselves better to maintaining clean water:

• Tabletop fountains – Small tabletop fountains have less water volume, making it easier to frequently clean and change the water.
• Ceramic or glass – Fountains made of ceramic, glass or stone have a smooth, nonporous surface that won’t trap mineral deposits and dirt.
• Built-in filtration – Many fountains come with built-in water filtration or have filtration kits available.
• LED illumination – Using LED rather than conventional bulbs avoids water heating that can promote bacterial growth.
• Multiple cascades – Fountains with multiple cascading levels oxygenate the water better.
• Covered basin – A covered basin prevents dust and other airborne debris from settling into the water.

Considering fountain design, size, materials, and accessories can help choose one that will have the cleanest water with minimal effort.

Conclusion

Maintaining clean, fresh water is essential for indoor fountains to remain pleasant additions to a home or office. Regular cleaning, water treatments, and complete water changes every 2-4 weeks will keep fountain water sparkling. Choosing filtered or bottled water over tap water can reduce contaminants and mineral buildup. Small tabletop fountains with glass surfaces and LED lights also promote water cleanliness. With proper care and maintenance, indoor fountains can provide soothing sights and sounds for years to come.