Month: October 2016

A water feature or fountain can add something truly special to your yard – a dynamic layer both when seen and when heard. As long as it is running it draws attention. Some water features can even attract birds. When your fountain stops running it can quickly become an eyesore. Here are some tips for maintaining a fountain or water feature.

1. Cleaning

Fountains should be cleaned every one to three months. Additives to reduce algae are also useful. Larger water features benefit from a deep clean every spring and fall, including an inspection for leaks. Ponds should be skimmed weekly to remove leaves and other debris.

2. Keep things moving

Static features such as ponds should still have water circulated with a pump. Aerating the water reduces algae buildup and prevents mosquito larvae from hatching. It can also attract birds more than a stagnant pond. If you have fish in your pond they need a certain level of aeration to breathe properly – talk to an aquarist about the specific needs of the fish you are keeping. It is worth considering adding at least a couple of insectivorous fish to control mosquitos.

3. Check pumps regularly

Pumps can easily become clogged. Filters and screens reduce, but don’t eliminate this – any debris gathered on the screen should be removed often. If there is any change in water level or any odd noise from the pump, check it immediately. If you turn your water feature off for the winter, then try to store the pump inside. This is particularly important for pondless water features.

4. Shade your feature.

Direct sunlight increases water evaporation, potentially causing problems with your pump and increasing the risk of algae. If you have a pond that is not located in a shady location, add shade plants around the edge to shade about 60 percent of the water surface.

If you are in doubt, then contact an expert. WP Law, Inc. has the expertise to repair and maintain fountains and residential water features, and they can both install and repair water features and advise you on the best way to do it yourself.

How hard could it be, right? You go to the nearest home improvement retailer, buy the pump that looks like the best deal, and 30 minutes later you are ready to install. Except it’s not as simple as that. The sump pump you choose now could prevent a lot of issues later. Even worse, it could add to them.

Submersible vs. Pedestal

Submersible pumps—those that are installed below water—are preferred in most situations. For one thing, being underwater makes them less prone to overheating. But your space may not accommodate a submersible pump, which means you will need to consider a pedestal pump. You will also need to consider the capacity of the impeller and the size of solids it can handle. One that is too small may clog easily and often.

Size matters

Sump pumps are available in a variety of horsepower options. However, even choosing between pumps with 1/3 or 1/2 HP can have consequences. If you select a pump with too little horsepower, it will not be able to keep up with water flow in some situations. A pump with too much HP will cycle on and off more than it should, which can damage the pump.  Therefore, you must estimate the gallons per hour (GPH) your sump pump will need to handle at the highest rate of flow.
Other issues to consider include mechanical vs. pressure switch, how to estimate the rate of water flow in your space, and more. Even if you do choose the right sump pump, proper installation is never a given. And that can also affect the performance of a sump pump.  Therefore, we at WP Law, Inc. would love to learn more about your requirements. We can help you choose the right fit for your space needs before you invest your first dollar. To discuss your plans further, please contact WP Law, Inc. to talk with one of our sump pump experts. It could save you a lot of hassles down the road.