How to Clean a Water Feature Pump: Step-by-Step for a Stronger Flow & Longer Life

An outdoor or indoor fountain can quickly become a stunning centrepiece, with delightful sounds and tranquil ambience. However, behind the smoothly flowing water is the one essential piece of equipment named the water pump. It is important to keep the water pump clean. It can help in the smooth, efficient flow of water and in extending the life of your pump, which can save you costly repairs. In this blog we will discuss how to clean a water feature pump with minimal hassle.

The Importance of a Clean Pond Pump

Your pond pump plays a very important role in maintaining the health and beauty of your water feature. It gives your fountain a heartbeat by circulating the water properly and keeping the system functioning. A well-maintained water pump:

• Filters debris and particles from the water properly

• Keep the water circulating properly, which can help in reducing stagnant water and algae growth

• Maintain a healthy environment for plants and wildlife in your pond

If you are not cleaning and maintaining your water pump properly, it will start to struggle, which will affect both the water quality and beauty of your water feature.

The Role of a Pond Pump in Maintaining a Healthy Pond

You can think of your pond pump as the circulatory system of your water feature. Its duty is to draw water from the pond, filter out the debris and ensure a smooth and consistent flow. When the flow is steady, it keeps the water oxygenated and encourages the natural movement needed for healthy fish, plants, and bacteria to thrive.

If you have been wondering how to clean a water feature pump without removing it, you are in luck. Many pumps can be cleaned on-site, which will save you time and effort.

The Consequences of Neglecting Pond Pump Maintenance

If you have the habit of skipping the cleaning of the pond pump, then you need to stop, as it might lead to various problems such as:

• Clogged pump cannot move the water effectively, which can slow down the flow of water

• The debris and minerals stuck inside the pump can cause significant damage to the internal components of the pump

• When the pump does not work properly, the water in the pond can turn murky, which is unhealthy for plants and animals in the pond

What Kind of Pond Pump Do I Have?

There are various types of pond pumps and each type of pump has its own cleaning technique. 

Submersible Pond Pumps

• These pumps are easy to clean, as they are just directly submerged in the water. You can easily access the entire pump in one go.

• As for how to clean the submersible water pump, you can simply remove the debris from the pump and rinse it thoroughly.

External Pond Pumps

• External pond pumps, as the name suggests, are placed outside the pond and are connected with a tube that draws water from the pond. 

• To clean the outdoor water fountain pump like this, you have to disconnect the hoses, remove the tubing and then remove the debris. 

Natural Pond Pumps

• These pumps are eco-friendly and use natural filtration to keep the water clean. 

• However, with time they also accumulate debris and you do not have to be a professional to know how to clean a water feature pump naturally, as the setup is quite simple and small.

Ensure your water stays clean and healthy by exploring our range of pond filtration pumps designed for optimal performance.

Step 1: Gathering the Necessary Cleaning Supplies

Before you start cleaning the pond, you need to make sure that you have all the necessary cleaning supplies ready with you. 

List of Essential Cleaning Tools

• A soft brush or sponge
  

• White vinegar (for mineral deposits)
  

• A small bucket of warm water
  

• A soft cloth
  

• Small, soft bristle brush (for cleaning hard-to-reach areas)
  

• Gloves (if needed for handling dirty water)

Safety Precautions During the Cleaning Process

• Whenever you are going to clean the pump, unplug it before you start

• If you are dealing with algae or slimy buildup, it is advisable to wear gloves

• Refrain from using any rough tool that can damage the surface of your pump or water feature.

Step 2: Preparing Your Pond Pump for Cleaning

• Before you start scrubbing, you have to prepare your pump for cleaning for your and the pump’s safety. 

• Make sure that you turn off the pump and remove all detachable parts, such as hoses or filter covers for cleaning. 

• If you are wondering how to clean a fountain pump without removing it, this step is important. You can clean the parts in place if the design allows it, but make sure that the pump is free from all debris first.

Step 3: Cleaning the Pump Exterior

• It is suggested to start the cleaning process from outside. 

• With time dirt, algae, and mineral buildup can accumulate on the pump’s surface. You can use damp cloths to wipe the surface or a soft brush for stubborn grime. 

• Use a gentle stream of water to clear off all the debris and before moving to the interior of the pump, don’t forget to clean the outer casing.

Step 4: Cleaning the Pump Interior

• This step is most important for submersible water pumps. 

• You can start off by removing all the debris from the interior using a small brush. In case any part has mineral buildup, you can place it in a mixture of white vinegar and water. 

• Any residual deposits can be scrubbed away with a gentle brush.

Step 5: Reassembly

• After you are done cleaning the pump, put the parts back together. 

• Be sure to not put the pump back together until the items are completely dry. 

• Once the pieces of the pump have been put back together, attach the hoses and tubes and run the pump again.

Wondering what size pump do I need for my fountain? Our comprehensive guide on how to choose a water feature pump will help you determine the perfect pump size based on your fountain's specific needs.

FAQ

1. How often should I clean my pond pump?

You should clean your pond pump at least once every 2 to 3 months. However, if you notice a reduction in water flow, it's good to clean it sooner.

2. Can I use tap water to clean my pond pump?

Yes, you can use tap water. Distilled water can also be used to clean your pond pump, which is preferred for cleaning if your area has hard water.

3. What if I encounter problems while reassembling my pond pump?

If you run into trouble while reassembling your pond pump, you can check out the instructions. If you still have trouble, look for someone to help you.

4. How do I know if my pond pump is bad?

If your pond pump shows signs like no water flow, strange noises, or constant power failure, it means it needs cleaning or, in some cases, repairs.

Keep Your Pump Healthy

A well-maintained pump keeps the water feature flowing smoothly, which enhances the beauty of your space. Keeping the pump clean allows it to continue to run well, have fresh water, and perform at its best.