Home Water Features and Their Maintenance Needs

Rohan Mathew

Updated on:

There is something about water that calms the human senses in a way that nothing else seems to live up to. It could be the way it gracefully flows or maybe it is the lulling sounds it makes. Whichever the case, whether it is an ocean or a river, the effect is undeniable.

Water features enable you to bring that mesmerizing effect of water to your home. While they may be artificial, when done right, they are worth the investment. All they require is some occasional care to stay in top shape. 

So, if you are keen on adding a water feature to your home, here are some options to consider.

Water Fountains

Water fountains are a feng shui symbol of prosperity and wealth. They are versatile and look just as good indoors as they do outside. Plus, when it comes to designs and sizes you will be spoiled for choice. It may simply come down to what you feel would add the most aesthetic value to your home.

If you are worried about maintenance, you may be surprised how easy it is to care for a water fountain. The main areas that will require your attention are the bowls, the pipes, and the pump. Some cleaning steps you can follow include:

  • Scrub the fountain bowls and rinse them out
  • Use white vinegar to get rid of discoloration and algae stains
  • Take apart the pump and remove any debris accumulated in it 
  • Use pipe cleaners to flush out any grit and particles in the piping

The larger the fountain, the more involving the maintenance may be. Still, you can get around that by cleaning your fountain regularly. Long intervals between cleaning could actually result in functional problems such as blockages.

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Scuppers and Sconces

Scuppers and sconces are often mistaken for each other but they are not the same. A scupper is a slit in a wall from which water juts out. They can be enhanced using lighting along their margins. On the other hand, a sconce is a figurehead of an animal or a mythical creature from whose mouth water spouts. 

Both of these features are built as part of a wall and the water that comes out of them flows into a pool. This design can make their maintenance rather complex as the pipes are less accessible. Nevertheless, you could still occasionally clean the pump system and ensure that the water is treated and filtered. For more thorough cleaning, consider hiring a professional to tend to them a few times a year.

A Water Wall

A water wall could make a great backdrop to sit with your thoughts and relax at the end of a long day. However, some additional features can also make it more interesting. For instance, you could spruce it up with some LED light strips for a dramatic effect when you are entertaining. Alternatively, if you prefer a more natural look, you could add some greenery such as artificial ivy.

On cleaning, ensure that the pump, walls, and panels are properly cleaned every 2 to 3 weeks. Where possible, it is advisable to use distilled water for your water wall. It is grit-free and therefore would not block the pipes. Further, compared to piped or hard water, it leaves less residue on the wall. Consider using solar power as well to lower maintenance costs especially if your water wall is installed outside.

Waterfalls 

Artificial waterfalls are designed using sculpted concrete, fiberglass, or rocks which are accentuated using greenery. The flow of water is facilitated by a pump and the sloping trajectory of the installation. Some empty into a pond but there are also pondless waterfall designs. 

Waterfalls can be a major undertaking as they involve significant construction. Their complexity also makes maintenance quite tasking. The pumping system, for example, needs to be cleaned often given all the elements it faces outside. The greenery may also require pruning so as not to obstruct the flow of water. That said, the final result is a marvel and could be worth the trouble.

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Natural Ponds

Natural ponds seamlessly integrate into the landscape and add immense beauty to a garden setting. They are even more resplendent when surrounded by colorful flowers, plants, and some well-placed rocks. You could also opt to add some fish to your pond if the design is conducive. Other accessories like bridges or walkways are equally a nice touch but would depend on the size of the pond.

Once the natural pond is installed, water flow and cleanliness are sustained by an underwater pump and a filtration system respectively. Keeping the water clean is of utmost importance lest the pond turns murky and unsightly. To this end, invest in a durable and reliable filtration system from a reputable brand like Mountain Tree. It will significantly ease your maintenance routine and keep the water fresh. Nevertheless, be sure to clean the pump and change out the filters as regularly as recommended.

Conclusion

Adding a water feature to your home not only improves the scenery but it also raises the value of the property. Furthermore, you may notice that you enjoy your home more and find it more relaxing than before. Some people even attest to sleeping better to the sound of water flowing. Suffice to say, there is hardly any downside to investing in that fountain you have been eyeing. 

Why wait any longer?