Denver Landscapers Explain How to Get Your Water Features Ready for Winter
October 15, 2019
Winter weather means more than snow-covered lawns—it means frozen pipes, lakes, and ice where you least want to see it. If you have water features in your yard, you’ll need to get them ready for freezing weather and the sooner you can do it, the better. Your trusted Denver landscaping service is here to help you winterize your yard. Here are a few simple things you can do to get your water features ready before the first freeze.
Remove the Living Components
If your water feature has any living plants inside, you’ll want to remove them before the first freeze. You may be able to transfer them to an indoor fountain or pot to help them survive the winter. Once the weather warms up, you can transfer them back to the water feature outside. If you have fish, find a safe place for them to winter inside. Keep in mind that you’ll need to get a tank that can accommodate all of the fish safely. Ask your local pet supply store for help to make sure you get the right tank and equipment.
Give It a Good Cleaning
Falling leaves, algae, and even insects can get your water feature dirty in a matter of days. The best thing you can do is give the entire system a deep cleaning. Before you drain the water, scoop out any plants and large pieces of debris. Then, drain the water and inspect the basin for damage. If you see any algae along the sides, you may need to use an algaecide to get rid of it once and for all. Alternatively, you can simply scrub the basin out with diluted bleach and water, but the algae will likely come back in spring.
Remove the Water Pump
Water pumps can and will freeze when the temperatures drop. This means you’ll want to remove it if possible. Otherwise, the pump may break and you’ll have to install a new one before you can use your water feature again. Once you remove the pump, drain it completely and store it indoors. Keeping it outside or in the garage puts it at risk for damage. Remember, the cold can hurt the components inside the pump and any water that doesn’t drain out completely can freeze and ruin the mechanics.
Get It Ready for the Holidays
Believe it or not, an empty and cleaned water feature doesn’t have to go unused during the winter months. You just have to get a little creative with how you use it. Fill the basin with seasonal decorations to add color and personality to your landscaping. Drape lights around the structure and incorporate it into your winter holiday lights display. The only limit is your imagination.
Need Help Winterizing Your Water Feature?
If these steps sound daunting, don’t panic. Contact Wild Irishman Tree and Landscape and let our pros help you get your water feature ready for the winter weather. We’ll make sure your system is in good condition so you can be ready to turn it back on once the weather warms up.
Go Back Remove the Living Components
If your water feature has any living plants inside, you’ll want to remove them before the first freeze. You may be able to transfer them to an indoor fountain or pot to help them survive the winter. Once the weather warms up, you can transfer them back to the water feature outside. If you have fish, find a safe place for them to winter inside. Keep in mind that you’ll need to get a tank that can accommodate all of the fish safely. Ask your local pet supply store for help to make sure you get the right tank and equipment.
Give It a Good Cleaning
Falling leaves, algae, and even insects can get your water feature dirty in a matter of days. The best thing you can do is give the entire system a deep cleaning. Before you drain the water, scoop out any plants and large pieces of debris. Then, drain the water and inspect the basin for damage. If you see any algae along the sides, you may need to use an algaecide to get rid of it once and for all. Alternatively, you can simply scrub the basin out with diluted bleach and water, but the algae will likely come back in spring.
Remove the Water Pump
Water pumps can and will freeze when the temperatures drop. This means you’ll want to remove it if possible. Otherwise, the pump may break and you’ll have to install a new one before you can use your water feature again. Once you remove the pump, drain it completely and store it indoors. Keeping it outside or in the garage puts it at risk for damage. Remember, the cold can hurt the components inside the pump and any water that doesn’t drain out completely can freeze and ruin the mechanics.
Get It Ready for the Holidays
Believe it or not, an empty and cleaned water feature doesn’t have to go unused during the winter months. You just have to get a little creative with how you use it. Fill the basin with seasonal decorations to add color and personality to your landscaping. Drape lights around the structure and incorporate it into your winter holiday lights display. The only limit is your imagination.
Need Help Winterizing Your Water Feature?
If these steps sound daunting, don’t panic. Contact Wild Irishman Tree and Landscape and let our pros help you get your water feature ready for the winter weather. We’ll make sure your system is in good condition so you can be ready to turn it back on once the weather warms up.