It is essential to carefully maintain water fountains for them to perform optimally. A common problem with fountains is that they tend to collect dirt and debris, so it is vital that you keep it free from this. On top of that, algae can be a problem, as sun hitting the water enables it to form easily. Either sea salt, hydrogen peroxide, or vinegar can be blended into the water to avoid this problem. There are those who like to use bleach, but that is harmful to any animals that might drink or bathe in the water - so should therefore be avoided.
Every three-four months, garden fountains should undergo a good cleaning. The initial step is to empty out all of the water. When it is empty, wash inside the reservoir with a gentle cleanser. If there are any little grooves, work with a toothbrush to reach every spot. Do not leave any soap deposits inside of or on the fountain.
It is highly recommended taking the pump apart to better clean the inside and get rid of any plankton or calcium. To make it less challenging, soak it in vinegar for a while before cleaning. Build-up can be a big hassle, so use mineral or rain water over tap water, when possible, to prevent this dilemma.
And finally, make sure the water level is continuously full in order to keep your fountain do you agree running smoothly. Allowing the water to drop below the pump’s intake level, can cause severe damage and even make the pump burn out - an undesired outcome!