1. WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE FOUNDATIONS UNDER A FOUNTAIN?
It is best when fountains are set on a firm leveled surface. This way the water does not accumulate under the Fountain. A patio deck, paver stones or an area set with compacted gravel are some other recommended alternatives for smaller fountains.
2. WHY CAN'T I SET A FOUNTAIN DIRECTLY OVER DIRT, MULCH OR GRASS?
It is important to maintain a leveled ground surface for proper water flow of the fountains. But what is most important is to prevent direct contact with moisture-rich surfaces which will end up being absorbed by a new Fountain. This way Natural or Stained pieces will show different colors around those wet areas and the source of moisture will carry with it a number of minerals that will affect the finish. Also the when the moistures freezes and expands at room temperature it will lead to paint peeling, concrete pitting and/or crumbling.
3. WHAT CARE DOES A FOUNTAIN REQUIRE?
• Maintain a constant water level - This will prevent the pump from burning out as water flow cools it down. • Prevent debris from falling in the water. These can stain and will clog the pump and inner connections. • Use Water Clarifier to prevent the formation of Algae, which has an unpleasant slimy texture, scent and color. • Use Lime Preventer and Remover to remove Lime build up.
4. HOW DO I CARE FOR MY FOUNTAIN DURING WINTER?
• At the end of the season clean and completely dry the fountain's surfaces. • Store indoors or in a facility which is not exposed to freezing temperatures. • Place Blankets or Old Towels on the Fountain to keep them dry if it is not possible to bring them in. • Ensure proper Fountain drainage • Make sure that snow or water does not pool the fountain
5. HOW SHOULD I CARE FOR STATUARY & OTHER GARDEN DÉCOR DURING WINTER?
• Clean & Dry the Garden Décor at the end of the winter season • Make sure that snow or water does not pool the fountain • Do not expose the Garden Fountain to freezing temperatures • Cover the Garden décor with old cloth & blanket
6. WHY IS MY FOUNTAIN DEVELOPING CRUMBLING?
Frost is the major reasons for crumbling. As water penetrates the porous structure of concrete the first frost it will show itself as by way of cracking or fully disintegrating. It is essential to take care of the fountain through cleaning & drying process before the first frost.
7. WHAT CAN I USE TO KEEP WATER CLEAN IN MY FOUNTAIN?
To keep the water clean use of Chlorine based water treatments & algae preventers is recommended. Though Chlorine based water treatments have corrosive effects on the inner connections of tubes & several pump parts making them brittle. Henri Studio does not recommend the use of extension cords. Fountains should be connected to properly grounded 110V GFCI, that is enclosed in a suitable outdoor enclosure. Consult your electrician for proper electrical lines & installed to meet local codes and regulations.
8. CAN I USE ANTIFREEZE OR A HEATING OR DE-ICING DEVICE?
Antifreeze does not prevent damage from ice. In case of the Heating & De-Icing devices, they defreeze water which surrounds them. As water moves away from the device is would freeze and cause damage to the Fountain.
9. WHEN SHOULD I START WINTERIZING?
You should begin Winter Care in the month of October or November. In case of Canada one should begin Winter Care by the month of September.
10. WHY AM I LOSING WATER?
Some of the possible reasons of loosing water are • Evaporation in summers • Splashing in case of active fountains • Pets • Leak
11. DO I HAVE TO TURN MY WATER FOUNTAIN OFF AT NIGHT OR WHEN I AM AWAY?
Water fountain are designed to run 365 days a year. In fact it is recommended that Pumps keep on running as long as the water level is adequate.
12. DO I NEED TO CLEAN THE INSIDE OF THE PUMP?
Unless the pump stops working, there is no need to clean the pump from inside. Algae built up & short circuits are some of the possible reasons of the pump stopping. See the Product Manual for instruction on removing algae from the pump. Remove the water pump inlet to access the impeller area.
13. WHY IS MY FOUNTAIN DEVELOPING 'SPIDER' CRACKS?
Spider or Hair Line cracks are result of expansion & contraction of the cast stone. This reason for this expansion & contraction is the change in temperature.
14. HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO CHANGE THE WATER?
The fountain should be cleaned as & when it gets dirty. Regular cleaning ensure longevity of the fountain. Clean water prevents algae & other microorganisms. Since direct sunlight encourages growth of microorganism it is suggested that a fountain should be kept away from direct sunlight.
15. WHY IS THE FINISH FADING?
The durability of the finish on a Fountain depends on • How is often is the fountain cleaned • Use of Harsh chemicals like Chlorine & Bleach Tablets
16. HOW DO I CARE FOR MY FOUNTAIN PUMP?
• Ensure proper water levels • Ensure Debris Free Water • Ensure that the pump does not develop calcium built up • Ensure regular clean up
17. DOES MY PUMP REQUIRE OIL?
There is No need of any kind of oil.
18. WHY IS MY PUMP SURGING?
Ensure that appropriate levels of water are maintained. Otherwise the pump with suction of air and could lead to failure. Also ensure that multiple plugs are NOT connected to the same electrical outlet
19. DO FOGGERS HEAT OR COOL THE FOUNTAIN WATER?
Foggers DO NOT Heat or Cool Fountain Water. They create fog using ultrasonic technology.
20. I SET UP MY FOUNTAIN AND THE PUMP IS TOO NOISY. HOW DO I FIX IT?
Ensure that the pump is fully submerged in the water. In most cases a pump is making noise because there is not enough water in the fountain. Also ensure that the pump is not vibrating against the side of the pan. Use a sponge underneath the pump to reduce vibrations.
CAN I HAVE FISH IN MY FOUNTAIN?
A fish is not recommended in the fountain.