Month: August 2023

There’s something special about sitting on your deck or patio on a warm summer evening with a bubbling fountain in the background. Water features add a special element to outdoor living, enhancing the space and creating a peaceful and serene environment. If you have one, it’s essential to make sure it’s getting proper summer fountain care. Here’s everything you need to know to simplify fountain maintenance. 

Cleaning the Fountain

You want your outdoor living area, including your fountain, to be inviting and beautiful. Cleaning is essential to summer fountain care and maintenance and should happen about once a month. A soft cloth or brush is the perfect tool to clean the inside and remove dirt or algae. Turn off the fountain before cleaning, and remove the pump and any decorations. If you use gentle cleaning solutions, completely rinse them before turning the water back on. Ensure no dirt or debris on the outer sides or edges can fall into the water. 

Cleaning the Pump

Fountain pumps can run constantly without worrying about breakdowns or overheating. As long as it’s underwater, it should keep running without issues. It’s critical to clean the pump at least once every summer. Start by unplugging or turning off the power to the pump before removing it from the fountain. Clean the outside with a cloth and use a bottle brush to remove any debris in the internal pipes. If your water is hard, use white vinegar to remove the hard water stains before replacing the pump and turning it back on. 

Keeping Algae at Bay

Nothing can muck up your beautiful fountain faster than algae. Sun is the biggest factor in algae growth, and keeping your fountain in the shade is one way to conquer it. In addition to regular cleaning, treating the water with an anti-algae product once a month is helpful. And the good news is, most algaecide is safe for your fountain, even if you have water plants and fish. 

Keep the Water Level Consistent

If your fountain water level drops, don’t panic. Evaporation from the warm summer days will lower the water level gradually every day. Checking the water levels and adding more when it gets low ensures your pump stays submerged, and you don’t end up with water rings on the inside of the bowl. If you’re losing water quicker than usual, check for leaks before refilling. Clear silicone can repair most small leaks, but larger ones may require professional attention. 

If you have an outdoor fountain that you love, and you want it to look great and run well all summer long, contact the professionals at W.P. Law, Inc. Their friendly staff will be happy to help give you all the information you need to better care for your fountain.

Water efficiency for gardens is a hot topic these days. With crazy weather all over the country, from droughts to deluges, we are more aware than ever of the value of water. You’ve probably seen it in your water bills and feel it in your wallet when you overwater your yard or garden. We’ve got the tips and tricks you need to maximize water efficiency in your garden this summer. 

Time Your Watering

When you water is as important as how much you water. Watering in the morning is the best way to get the most growth from your plants and flowers during the hot summer months. The moisture can soak into the soil and down to the roots before the sun’s heat causes evaporation and dries the dirt. It’s also better to water in the morning to prevent fungus. As the sun goes down and the air cools, it’s more likely water left on the leaves from irrigation will sit and promote fungus growth without the warm sun to dry it. 

Add Mulch to Your Garden’s Soil

Adding mulch to your soil is one of the best and easiest ways to prevent evaporation and maximize water efficiency in your garden. An inch will insulate your plants and the ground around them to help prevent the water from evaporating. It keeps the soil moist and adds organic material to support the plants and their root systems. Your garden will retain moisture more efficiently, and you’ll have healthier soil, too. 

Check Your Hoses and Irrigation System

Nothing wastes water quicker than a leaky hose or sprinkler system. Loose or faulty washers where the hose connects to the spigot is the most common place to find a leak and a lot of water wasted. Another waste issue arises with old, cracked hoses. If your hose isn’t flexible enough to prevent cracking, it’s time to invest in a new one. Another option to help increase water efficiency for gardens is to invest in soaker or drip irrigation that slowly waters in specific areas to allow for effective absorption of the water down into the plant’s roots. 

If you’re not getting the most out of your garden irrigation this summer, talk to the professionals about maximizing efficiency for a healthier garden and reduced water use. Contact the team at W.P. Law for the guidance you need to set yourself up for a gorgeous yard and lower water bills.