Author: splashme@splashomnimedia.com

As the warmth of summer fades and the cooler months creep in, South Carolinians know it’s time to prepare their homes and gardens for winter. Often overlooked in these preparations is the backyard water feature. While South Carolina might not experience the harshest of winters, it’s still crucial to winterize your water feature to ensure it remains in good working order. We’ll walk you through the steps to protect your water feature and discuss the benefits of working with a professional who can help guide you through caring for it.

Steps to Winterize Your Water Feature

1. Drain the Water: The first and most vital step is to drain all the water from your fountain/water feature. Even in milder climates like we have in the South, water can freeze and expand. This can cause cracks or damage to your water feature, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
2. Clean the Water Feature: Once drained, take the opportunity to clean the water feature. Remove any debris, such as leaves, twigs, or algae. Scrub the interior with a soft brush and mild detergent to remove mineral deposits or stains. This will prevent any buildup from worsening over the winter and ensures a fresh start in spring.
3. Protect the Pump: The pump is the heart of your water feature, and protecting it is crucial. Remove the pump from the water feature, clean it thoroughly, and store it in a dry place, preferably indoors. This protects the pump from any freezing conditions and extends its lifespan.
4. Cover the Water Feature: Cover your water feature entirely using a cover or even a heavy-duty tarp. A cover prevents debris from entering and protects the structure from potential frost or ice damage. Ensure the cover is secure so it won’t blow away during winter winds.
5. Check for Water Collection: Throughout the winter, periodically ensure that water isn’t collecting at the base or within the water feature. Accumulated water can freeze and cause damage.

Consider Hiring a Professional for Help

Before spending a weekend working on your outdoor water feature, consider calling in a professional to help you with winterization. Some of the benefits of using a pro to do the work include:

• Expertise and Experience: Professionals have the knowledge and experience to winterize your water feature efficiently and effectively.
• Saves Time and Effort: Winterizing can be a labor-intensive process. Hiring a professional can save you time.
• Ensures Longevity: Proper maintenance ensures that your water feature remains a centerpiece in your garden for years. Professionals can spot potential issues before they become significant problems, saving you money in the long run.
• Peace of Mind: Professional winterization can give you peace of mind. You can rest easy knowing that your water feature is ready to face the winter months and will be in great shape to turn back on in the spring.

While South Carolina may not have the most brutal winters, it’s essential not to overlook the care of your backyard or patio fountain. By taking the necessary steps to winterize your water feature or hiring a professional to help you, you can enjoy the soothing sounds and sights of your water feature for many seasons to come. Don’t let winter’s chill catch you unprepared; act now to ensure your water feature’s longevity. Contact the experienced and knowledgeable team at W.P. Law today for all your outdoor water feature needs.

Living in the South makes outdoor living possible nearly year-round. And when the sun is shining and the weather is inviting, there’s nothing quite like hosting a gathering in your outdoor living space. One way to make your house the destination of choice is by setting up backyard kitchen that combines comfort with top-notch cooking. We’ve compiled a list of the ten must-haves to help you create the ultimate outdoor oasis to expand your entertainment options.

1. A High-Quality Backyard Kitchen Grill

You can’t have an outdoor kitchen without the ultimate cooking appliance – a great grill. It’s a necessity and the centerpiece of any outdoor kitchen. A high-quality grill provides endless cooking possibilities, from sizzling steaks to juicy burgers and veggie kabobs. When designing your outdoor kitchen, pick the grill first and build around it so you know it will fit into the plan.

2. A Great Smoker

Smokers are all the rage and for a good reason. For those who love rich, smoky flavors, a smoker is a must-have addition, especially for entertaining. You can make amazing brisket, mouthwatering ribs, incredible fish, and even some desserts in a good smoker. It takes outdoor cooking to a whole new level, adding not only great food, but that amazing aroma that you only get from a smoker.

3. An Outdoor Pizza Oven

Crank up your creativity with an outdoor pizza oven. Whether you’re serving classic pies or experimenting with gourmet toppings, a pizza oven adds fun and interaction to your gatherings, allowing your family and friends to customize their own delicious creations.

4. An Outdoor Kitchen Prep Station

Cooking in an outdoor kitchen is only convenient if you have prep space to keep you from running back and forth to the kitchen. You can streamline the cooking process by including a dedicated prep station. Including ample counter space and storage ensures you have everything you need at your fingertips, minimizing those trips to the indoor kitchen.

5. Refrigeration

Another way to avoid running in and out of the house all day is to add a refrigerator to your outdoor kitchen. Keeping fresh ingredients on hand and in your outdoor kitchen space makes outdoor prep and cooking easier. Having cold beverages nearby keeps you and your guests happy and lets you focus on having a good time instead of constantly running to fetch drinks.

6. The Right Backyard Kitchen Accessories

Entertainment isn’t just about the food; it’s also about creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. To ensure your guests have everything they need, outfit your backyard kitchen with beautiful glassware, napkins, plates, and utensils to make eating outdoors easy and convenient.

7. Ambient Lighting

Outdoor lighting can transform your outdoor kitchen and living space into a magical oasis. To create a cozy and appealing environment, incorporate ambient lighting options such as string lights, lanterns, and landscape lighting.

8. An Outdoor Entertainment System

Outdoor entertaining includes watching the big game or listening to your favorite music. Installing an outdoor entertainment system can enhance the entertainment options in your outdoor kitchen. Weather-resistant televisions, speakers, and even a projector can make movie nights, sports events, or background music an integral part of your gatherings.

9. A Fire Pit or Fireplace

Extend your backyard kitchen even more by including a fire pit or fireplace. These features provide warmth on cooler evenings, creating a cozy place for guests to gather and a great place for roasting marshmallows and making s’mores.

10. An Outdoor Water Feature

Nothing adds ambiance to your outdoor living space like a water feature. From a bubbling fountain to a koi-filled pond, running water adds serenity and calm when you spend time outside and can take your entertaining space up a notch.

Adding these ten must-have essentials to your outdoor space will elevate your entertaining game, turning your backyard into a gathering space you can use year-round. If you’re ready to bring your vision to life, contact W.P. Law, Inc. to get started on your outdoor kitchen design.

Pumps play a vital role in numerous industries, ensuring water gets from one place to another. However, like any mechanical device, pumps can have issues that disrupt their performance. Low flow rates can lead to disaster if not addressed quickly. Instead of worrying about an interruption in service, use these troubleshooting tips to address some common pump issues to help you keep your operations running smoothly.

Low Flow Rate

A low flow rate is one of the most frequently encountered pump issues. This problem can stem from various factors, such as clogged or blocked pipelines, worn-out parts, or inadequate pump sizing. To address this issue, start by inspecting the pipes for debris or blockages and ensure that the pump components are not damaged or worn down. Additionally, check if the pump’s capacity matches the system’s requirements – an undersized pump can lead to low flow rates.

Seal Failure

Seal failure can lead to leaks, reduced efficiency, and even water contamination. The most common causes of seal failure include improper installation, incorrect seal material, and excessive pressure or temperature. Inspect the seals for signs of wear, misalignment, or damage when troubleshooting seal failure.

Motor Issues

Motor-related problems can significantly impact pump performance. Overheating, excessive vibration, and loud noises from the pump are signs of potential motor issues. Inspect the motor, ensure proper lubrication, and check for loose connections. If vibration is an issue, there could be a misalignment between the pump and motor. Addressing motor issues as soon as you notice them can prevent breakdowns and extend the pump’s lifespan.

Electrical Issues

Electrical problems can halt pump operations entirely. Issues like blown fuses, tripped circuit breakers, or faulty wiring can disrupt the power supply to the pump. Start by checking the power source and connections for any visible damage. Ensuring that the electrical components are adequately protected and that the pump’s electrical specifications match the power supply is crucial. Regular inspections and routine maintenance can help prevent unexpected electrical failures.

Cavitation

Cavitation occurs when the liquid in the pump turns to vapor at low pressure due to insufficient Net Positive Suction Head available (NPSHa). When this occurs, tiny air bubbles form on the impeller. These bubbles collapse as they move into areas of higher pressure, causing shockwaves that destroy the impeller. Cavitation can result from poor system design, high suction lift, or improper pump operation.  Review the pump’s specifications to troubleshoot cavitation and ensure it operates within the recommended pressure parameters. If the issue persists, a system design modification or pump replacement could be necessary.

Addressing common pump issues that lead to low flow rates is essential for maintaining efficient operations and preventing costly downtime. Investing in high-quality equipment can significantly reduce the likelihood of these issues. Still, proper installation and regular pump maintenance are even more important. The professionals at W.P. Law, Inc. can help. Call them to learn more about getting the most out of your pump.

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. 

Following a fertilizer program is a great start to figuring out the best time to fertilize your lawn. With a program, you will have access to a detailed plan customized to your lawn type and goals–no more troubleshooting or second-guessing the best steps to care for your lawn. Even a homeowner inexperienced in lawn care can achieve a gorgeous, healthy lawn with one of our fertilizer programs.

What to Expect from Our Fertilizer Program

Your individualized program will provide a guide to help you care for your lawn based on the specific grass you have. It will cover an easy-to-follow schedule featuring application rates that take the guesswork out of proper fertilization and weed control.

A sound fertilization program will include detailed information on the following:

• Soils: A primer on how soil factors impact your lawn’s management, including ideal pH levels, soil applications, and soil testing options.
• Watering: Details about watering requirements for your grass type and suggestions for using irrigation controllers and other solutions to maximize your watering tasks while practicing conservation.
• Mowing: Guidelines for proper mowing height and schedule.
• Pre-emergent herbicides: Best practices for using pre-emergent herbicides to prevent annual weeds from germinating in the lawn.
• Aeration: Recommendations for aerating the lawn to loosen soil and prune the roots.
• Management: Information about best practices for mowing, scouting, and fungicide applications to prevent insect and disease problems from taking hold in your lawn.
• Troubleshooting tips: Proven troubleshooting methods for your specific grass type.
• Month-by-month steps for insect control and weed prevention: Details regarding what steps to take each month to keep your lawn insect and weed-free and healthy.

Join W.P. Law’s Fertilizer Program to Achieve a Beautiful Lawn

Keeping your lawn looking its best doesn’t have to be a headache or a struggle. At W.P. Law, Inc., we are dedicated to helping you establish the right maintenance program to achieve the lawn of your dreams. Contact W.P. Law, Inc. today to get started with a fertilizer program best catered to your lawn.