FOUNTAIN MAINTENANCE
COPPER FOUNTAINS:
We have carefully hand-applied a patina finish to your fountain's copper components. If you like this finish as much as we do,itcan be protected from natural oxidation by applying Pledge or another household furniture polish with a soft cloth. DO NOT USE COPPER CLEANER, as this will remove the patina, leaving the original bright copper finish (unless you want that look). Also, do NOT use CLR or wax because they will remove the hand-applied patina finish. If you begin to see specks of green oxidation on the treated copper, it's time for more furniture polish. However, should you wish not to preserve our finish, simply do nothing and allow nature to perform its own permanent patina. Your copper will travel through different hues of oxidation but eventually will take on the verdigris quality of an old copper roof. How quickly your fountain will verdigris will depend on your climate, the water you use, and how you maintain your fountain. Copper is a natural material, reactive to its environment, and it will oxidize from exposure to air and water, and darken from exposure to the sun.
MAINTANING THE CORRECT WATER CAPACITY
Check the water in your fountain daily. Fill the trough with a water level of 1/4" - 3/4" from the top with distilled water (distilled water will prevent minerals from your tap water from forming white deposits on the stone over time). Water will evaporate from the fountain and adversely affect the performance of the water pump, which MUST be completely submerged for proper operation and longevity. NEVER ALLOW YOUR WATER PUMP TO OPERATE DRY! DAMAGE WILL RESULT.
Changing the water should occur when the entire fountain is cleaned. (Recommended every 4-6 months). Fountec and Protec water treatments are recommended to prevent the growth of alge as well as the build-up of mineral deposits.You simply need to add a drop for each gallon of water contained in your fountain once a week.
Note: Although Water Fountain Worlds fountains are designed not to splash, sweating from condensation and splashing droplets can occur if set up incorrectly. As a precaution against water stains, please protect fine surfaces under and near fountain.
MAINTAINING THE PANEL FACE:
SLATE:
If mineral deposits do develop, the best way to wash them away is with CLR...(Calcium Lime Rust Remover) and a soft bristled brush, follow the instructions on the bottle. But, remember, slate is a natural material (metamorphic rock), made of composite layers. Hard or excessive brushing may cause a piece of the slate to come loose and chip away.
PEBBLES:
Follow the same guidelines as above for slate (please refer to slate section above). Do not use bleach or other harsh chemicals that will deteriorate the pebbles' substrate.
GLASS or MIRROR:
The best way to eliminate mineral deposits on your indoor fountain is with a solution of white vinegar and water. If the water does not run evenly over the glass or mirror surface, turn off the fountain, dry the glass or mirror thoroughly, and apply a thin application of "Jazz" Window Prep which you can find at most art supply stores. It helps the water flow evenly over the glass or mirror of your indoor fountain.
