Keeping a pond clean and healthy can be a challenge. Algae, debris, and murky water are common pond problems that can detract from the beauty of a backyard pond. Many pond owners look for solutions to help keep their ponds crystal clear. One option is adding a fountain or water feature. But will a fountain actually help keep your pond clean?
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How Do Fountains Help Clean a Pond?
Fountains can help clean and maintain a pond in a few key ways:
Circulation and Aeration
One of the main benefits of a pond fountain is improved water circulation and aeration. As the fountain pumps water up and lets it cascade back down, this churning motion helps move the water in the pond around. This water circulation prevents stagnation and also brings oxygen from the surface down to lower levels of the pond. Aerating the water helps keep pond organisms healthy.
Surface Agitation
The splashing effect of a fountain disrupts the surface tension of the water. This agitation makes it harder for floating algae and debris to accumulate on the surface. The motion of the fountain can help break up and disperse some of this buildup.
Filtration
Many ponds use fountain pumps to power filtration systems. Drawing water through media filters helps remove solids, organic debris, and microscopic algae from the water. Fountain pumps that are integrated with filters improve water clarity.
Considerations for Using Fountains for Pond Cleaning
While fountains can provide some cleaning benefits, there are a few important factors to consider:
Water Changes
The fountain itself will not remove pond muck and dissolved organic waste from the water. Regular partial water changes are still required to dilute these contaminants.
Algae Treatment
Fountains help prevent surface algal scums, but typically don’t eliminate microscopic single-celled algae floating in the water. You may still need algicides or UV clarifiers to control algae blooms.
Debris Cleanup
Fountains circulate debris but don’t remove it from the pond. Plants, leaves, and other debris will need to be physically netted out periodically.
Location
Placement of the fountain matters. Positioning it to help move water into dead zones and nooks around the perimeter maximizes circulation.
Pond Size
The fountain needs to be proportionate to the pond size to effectively move the water. For very large ponds, multiple fountains may be required for adequate circulation.
Types of Fountains That Can Keep Ponds Clean
If you want to add a fountain to help clean your pond, here are some good options:
Floating Fountains
Floating water jet fountains sit right on the surface and shoot arched streams of water outward. They provide wide surface agitation.
Ring Fountains
Ring or diverter fountains sit near the edge and pump water up through a ring shaped fountain head. The angled jets help push water along the perimeter.
Pond Aerators
These air-powered fountains don’t actually shoot streams of water. Instead, they bubble pond water up from the bottom to circulate and aerate it.
Splash Fountains
Splash fountains feature designs like weeping willows or mushroom caps that let water drip or pour downward. The cascading water introduces oxygen.
Geyser Fountains
Geyser fountains provide dramatic upward shooting jets of water followed by cascading falls. They strongly oxygenate and move the water.
Fountain Pumps and Maintenance
The pump you choose for your fountain will depend on factors like the size of your pond, the type of fountain, and your budget. Here are some tips:
– Choose the right pump flow rate and maximum head height to meet your fountain’s needs.
– Look for energy efficient pumps to reduce electrical costs.
– Select durable pumps with long warranties from reputable brands.
– Clean and maintain pumps regularly to maximize performance and life.
– Keep intake screens clear of debris that could clog the pump.
– Install the pump properly with secure hose connections.
Regular fountain maintenance like cleaning the pump, changing filters, and wiping salt buildup from the fountain head is necessary for proper operation.
Alternative Options for Cleaning Ponds
While fountains can provide some cleaning benefits, you can also consider these other options for keeping your pond clean:
Pond Vacuums
Pond vacuums allow you to actively suck up sediment and debris from pond bottoms. They remove muck that would continue to decompose in the water.
UV Clarifiers
UV clarifier systems use ultraviolet light to kill free-floating algae. They clear green water and prevent recurrent algae blooms.
Bottom Drains
Installing bottom drains allows you to empty ponds easily compared to trying to pump water out. They facilitate periodic draining and cleaning.
Pond Skimmers
Skimmers continuously remove floating leaves, pollen, and other debris from the water surface before it sinks and decays. This keeps water cleaner.
Barley Straw
Floating barley straw bales release compounds that inhibit algal growth. The straw helps water stay clearer.
Beneficial Bacteria
Adding live bacteria cultures like Bacillus species to ponds can aid in breaking down organic waste materials and provide cleaner water.
The Benefits of Adding a Fountain
While a fountain alone won’t eliminate all pond cleaning tasks, installing one provides multiple helpful benefits:
– Improved circulation and dissolved oxygen levels for healthier water
– Reduction of surface debris and prevention of surface algal mats
– Splashing effect helps disperse areas of green water
– Ability to power pressurized filtration to remove particulates
– Aeration of water prevents stagnation and stratification
– Fountains prevent mosquito breeding in stagnant water areas
– Provides pleasant sights and sounds to enhance the pond
So while a fountain isn’t a complete solution for pond cleaning, it can make maintaining clean water easier and improve ecosystem health. When used in combination with other maintenance tactics like vacuuming, UV clarification, and water changes, a properly sized and positioned fountain can help reduce overall cleaning duties and keep water sparkling. The circulation, splashing, and aeration benefits make a fountain a worthwhile investment for most pond owners. Carefully cleaning it and changing filters regularly helps the fountain work effectively season after season.
Conclusion
Installing a fountain often makes maintaining clean, clear pond water easier, but isn’t a complete solution in itself. Fountains help circulate water, disrupt surface algae, and enhance oxygen levels. But debris removal, muck reduction, managing microscopic algae, water changes, and chemical treatments are still required. Consider factors like fountain placement, proportion to pond size, and pump capacity. Combine a fountain with other cleaning methods for clear results. With regular care, an appropriately sized fountain can supplement your maintenance regimen and provide cleaner pond water and visual appeal.