As autumn leaves fall and temperatures drop, outdoor fountain owners face a critical question: "Will a running fountain freeze?".
The answer is a definitive yes.
While moving water takes longer to freeze than still water, the harsh reality of winter will eventually catch up. When water freezes, it expands. This expansion is powerful enough to crack concrete, fiberglass, and ceramic outdoor fountains , and it will almost certainly destroy the motor of your outdoor fountain pump.
To protect your investment and ensure your water feature is ready for spring, you need to learn how to winterize outdoor fountains. Since many owners don't have specialized equipment, this guide focuses on practical, DIY-friendly methods to get the job done.
Step 1: Drain the Water (Completely)
The first rule of winterizing is to remove every drop of water.
If your fountain has a drain plug, use it. However, many models do not. For these, you can use a small submersible pump to pump the water out, or for a thorough job, use a wet/dry outdoor fountain vacuum to suck up remaining puddles in the basin tiers.
Tip: Do not leave water in the bowls. Even a small amount of ice expansion can cause hairline cracks that will leak next season.
Step 2: Clean the Basin with Vinegar
Before you pack it away, you must clean off the summer's buildup of algae and mineral deposits (white scale). You don't necessarily need expensive chemicals for this.
Data shows that savvy homeowners are successfully cleaning outdoor fountains with vinegar.
- Mix a solution of warm water and white vinegar (50/50 ratio).
- Use a soft-bristle brush to scrub the basin.
- Vinegar for outdoor fountains is excellent for dissolving calcium buildup without damaging the finish.
- Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely.
Step 3: Remove and Store the Pump
Your pump is the heart of your fountain, and it is vulnerable to freezing.
-
Disconnect the pump and remove it from the fountain.
-
Clean the intake vents to remove debris.
-
Storage Tip: Check your manual. Some pumps are best stored dry, while others (to prevent seals from cracking) should be stored in a bucket of water in a heated garage or basement. If you leave it out, you might be searching for an outdoor fountain pump replacement in March.
Step 4: Cover and Protect
If your fountain is too heavy to move indoors (like large stone or concrete models), you must cover it.
While there are specialized covers for outdoor fountains on the market, you can use a heavy-duty waterproof tarp and bungee cords as a DIY solution.
-
The Goal: Prevent snow and rain from accumulating inside the bowl.
-
The Method: Place a few towels or a bucket upside down in the basin under the cover to create a "tent" shape. This prevents water from pooling on top of the cover and sagging.
FAQ: Heaters and Antifreeze
We often get asked about alternative methods to keep fountains running.
Q: Can I use antifreeze?
A: People often search for antifreeze for outdoor fountains. While products exist, be extremely careful. Never use automotive antifreeze, which is lethal to birds, dogs, and cats. Only use non-toxic, pet-safe products specifically designed for fountains if you choose this route.
Q: What about fountain heaters?
A: An outdoor fountain heater or de-icer can keep water liquid in mild freezing conditions. However, in deep freezes, electricity costs can be high, and if the power fails during a storm, your fountain could freeze and crack overnight. For most people, the safest route is to drain and cover.
Conclusion
Winterizing doesn't have to be a chore. By taking an afternoon to drain, clean with vinegar, and cover your feature, you ensure that your outdoor fountains survive the cold.