When the air becomes crisp and the days grow shorter, it’s the perfect time to get your home and garden ready for winter. Your outdoor fountain, that beautiful centerpiece of your yard, has provided the calming sound of trickling water all season long. But as temperatures drop, it’s easy to forget that outdoor fountains need a little bit of TLC to survive the colder months. Without proper winter preparation, freezing water can lead to cracks, broken pumps, or even permanent damage. Nobody wants to welcome spring with a hefty repair bill or the disappointment of a non-functioning fountain.
Fortunately, this step-by-step guide will help you winterize your outdoor fountain. Whether you have a small bubbling fountain or a more elaborate design, this process is straightforward and easy to customize.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Materials
Start by grabbing gloves to protect your hands and a bucket to help with draining and cleaning. A wet/dry vacuum is handy for removing water from tricky spots like small crevices or pump areas. To clean the fountain, you’ll need mild soap or vinegar paired with a soft brush or sponge to remove algae and grime without scratching the surface.
A waterproof fountain cover is essential to keep out snow, frost, and debris during the cold months. Having some towels nearby can also help you dry off components before putting anything away.
Top Tip
Need supplies? Check your local garden center or home improvement store. Many of these items are easy to find, and investing in good-quality materials now will protect your fountain for years to come.
Step 2: Drain the Fountain
Water left inside a fountain will freeze and expand, which can crack the basin or damage pipes. Start by unplugging your fountain if it’s powered. Use a bucket to scoop out as much water as possible. For remaining water in hard-to-reach places, a wet/dry vacuum works wonders.
If your fountain has a pump, unplug and remove it before draining, as pumps can freeze and break when the water inside turns to ice. Larger fountains may have a drain plug; removing this allows water to flow out easily. For tiered fountains, repeat the process for each level until everything is dry.
Top Tip
Take a moment to tip the fountain gently in one direction, which helps release any trapped water. It’s better to do this step rather than risk cracks forming as water freezes and thaws over the winter months.
Step 3: Clean and Inspect for Damage
A clean boulder fountain enters winter in much better shape than one covered in algae or dirt. Begin with a soft brush or sponge and a gentle cleaning solution like diluted vinegar or dish soap. Scrub away algae, leaf residue, or mineral deposits that could harden over time. Rinse with clean water, making sure no soap residue remains.
Once the fountain is clean, inspect it thoroughly for damage. Look for small cracks, chips, or weaknesses in the basin or tubing. Pay close attention to the area where the pump connects, as this is often a vulnerable spot. Minor cracks should be filled with an appropriate fountain-safe sealant to prevent them from worsening during temperature changes.
Step 4: Protect the Pump and Removable Parts
The pump is the heart of your fountain and deserves special attention as cold weather sets in. Disconnect and remove it entirely, wiping it clean with a soft cloth and mild soap. After cleaning, store the pump indoors in a dry, frost-free location.
Other removable parts, such as tubing or decorative elements, should also be cleaned and dried before storing. Keeping these items together in a dedicated storage bin or container can prevent parts from getting lost or accidentally damaged during the winter months.
Top Tip
Some people choose to keep pumps in a bucket of water during storage to prevent seals and gaskets from drying out, but this depends on your manufacturer’s recommendations.
Step 5: Cover the Fountain
A quality fountain cover keeps winter elements like frost, snow, and ice from making contact with the structure. Look for a cover specifically designed for outdoor fountains, as these are made from durable, waterproof, and weatherproof materials.
Slip the cover over your fountain, and make sure it fits snugly and covers the entire structure. Use cords, bungee straps, or ties to secure it tightly, especially if you live in a windy area. A loose cover can shift and leave parts of the fountain exposed, defeating the purpose.
Once the cover is in place, take a step back to check for any gaps or areas where water might sneak through. A properly covered fountain will be well-protected from everything winter throws its way.
Step 6: Maintain the Fountain During Winter
Even though your fountain is now prepped and tucked away, it still needs a little attention during the colder months. Check the cover periodically, especially after heavy snowfall or storms, to make sure it hasn’t come loose or torn. Clear off accumulated snow or ice to prevent excessive weight that could stress the fountain’s structure.
Top Tip
Avoid using chemicals like antifreeze in your fountain, as this can harm wildlife and pets. If you live somewhere with milder winters and plan to leave the fountain running, consider adding a de-icer to stop water from freezing.
Brave Those Cooler Months
Winterizing your outdoor fountain might feel like one more task on a long to-do list, but think of the reward when spring arrives. There’s nothing quite like hearing the familiar sound of bubbling water return to your garden as everything comes back to life. It’s a small ritual that marks the changing of the seasons, and with a little preparation, your fountain will be ready to welcome brighter days without a hitch.
And here’s a little fun fact to brighten your day while we’re at it! Did you know some of the oldest fountains in the world are still operational thanks to centuries of care and maintenance? The Trevi Fountain in Rome, for example, has seen countless winters but continues to enchant visitors from every corner of the globe. While it might not be a historic masterpiece in your backyard, treating your fountain with the same care helps preserve its charm for years to come.
Now is the perfect time to give your outdoor fountain the love it deserves and set it up for another season of beauty and tranquility. You’ve got this—spring will be here before you know it, and your fountain will be ready to shine.
RSS Feed