After a bout of very cold weather, it is not uncommon for homeowners to realize that their fountain or waterfall froze solid and the plumbing is damaged. To avoid this type of callback, you’ll want to be sure every new water feature installed will function perfectly throughout the year, particularly when it is turned on again when the days warm up. Here’s how to protect a water feature in winter in the Lancaster and State College, PA, areas.

Ponds and other water features can be attractive and relaxing elements of any backyard. But long winter months and a relentless freeze-thaw cycle can lead to problems. A little time spent preparing for the deep freeze will keep water features in top shape for spring. 

These steps should not be put off until after the first hard freeze. Unfortunately, pumps and plumbing may need replacement after they freeze solid, because as ice expands it can cause pipes, hoses, fittings, pre-formed or concrete pond bases, and pump mechanisms to crack. Here’s how to avoid that expensive mistake.

Related: WHAT SLUDGE AND MUCK DO TO PONDS AND HOW TO GET RID OF IT IN YORK, PA

Ponds

For ponds without fish, you could consider removing the electric pump for the winter, if it is easily accessible, and storing it indoors. Draining the pond completely—and especially the hoses—will help prevent ice buildup. This is also a good opportunity to clean out filters and give the entire system a good scrubbing to remove any algae, moss, mold, or mildew that can contaminate the water once the pond is refilled. And you can service the pump if needed to make sure it’s in good working order in the spring.

If the pond is not going to be drained in winter (if it has fish, for example) you can try placing an old tennis ball or two in the water. As the ball moves around, it will actually slow the formation of surface ice; and once the pond does freeze, the tennis ball can be removed to create an oxygen hole for your fish. Never smash the ice on a pond to break it. The shock waves could actually hurt or kill the fish, and sharp shards of ice could also damage the pond liner or hurt your fish. 

Fountains and Waterfalls

Even fast-moving water can freeze—it takes longer, but a deep freeze can eventually stop even the strongest rush of water. Before the first freeze, completely drain the fountain and isolate the electric supply. If possible, remove the pump completely and store it indoors. This is a good time to apply spray-on penetrating oil to help prevent corrosion during the winter. Be sure to thoroughly clean the oil off the pump before reinstalling it, to prevent contaminating the water.

Drain the catch basin(s) and clean it thoroughly to remove any lingering dirt, algae, and so forth. Leave the water feature empty of water until you are sure winter is really over. If you do jump the gun, then temporarily covering the water fountain with an insulating layer of bubble wrap and running the fountain for a few days may help prevent the water from freezing and damaging the system.

Related: HOW TO MAINTAIN A PONDLESS WATERFALL IN LANCASTER, PA

Photo courtesy of Unilock.