How to Remove Stubborn Algae from a Fountain

As we told you last week, there are many ways you can prevent algae from taking over your fountain and causing a less-than-sweet smell. But if you've already got some tough algae growth on your fountain that you've had a hard time removing or has left a stain on your fountain, there are a few things you can do to eliminate the problem.

First and foremost, as always, consult your fountain's instruction manual before attempting any kind of cleaning process. Different materials require different care, and you wouldn't want to damage your fountain while trying to remove algae. If your fountain didn't come with a manual or there are no cleaning instructions provided, give the manufacturer a call - they can usually give you tips that work best for the particular combination of materials and finishes that make up your fountain.

Not sure who the manufacturer is? Call KineticFountains.com customer service toll-free (1-877-271-1112) and describe your fountain. They can give you gentle yet effective cleaning instructions appropriate for the materials the fountain is made of.

Unplug the pump, drain the fountain and rinse it out with clean, fresh water. Use a wash cloth or cleaning rag to wipe all surfaces of the fountain, including the pump. You may want to use pipe cleaner to pull algae growth out of the tubing and spouts. Some fountains have a series of small holes that send water streaming down into the basin below; these holes can easily get clogged up with algae and should be cleaned out as needed.

Most fountains can be cleaned with dish soap, but make sure you rinse your fountain thoroughly afterward to ensure that you don't end up with an explosion of bubbles when you turn the fountain back on! Use an old soft-bristled toothbrush to get into cracks and crevices.

Avoid using bleach unless it is specifically okayed by the manufacturer. A gentler solution is white vinegar. One easy way to clean algae off fountain components that can't be soaked (such as with large garden fountains) is to soak a rag in warm (not hot) white vinegar and lay the rag over the affected parts of the fountain. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes or so and then use the rag to scrub the fountain surfaces.

Never use a stiff scrub brush on unfinished copper, stainless steel or other unprotected metal surfaces. They scratch easily and you may end up destroying the finish. If you have algae growth on these surfaces, check out the cleaning instructions at KineticFountains.com.

Some fountain owners find that they follow all of these instructions, and yet algae keeps coming back. It's important to treat the fountain water with a product like No More Algae for Fountains. This gentle anti-algae solution will prevent any remnants of algae in your fountain from blooming and creating a new problem.