How do I maintain my water table or water ornament?
A water table can be a beautiful addition to your outdoor space. To ensure that it remains looking nice for a long time, it is important to properly maintain your water ornament. Various problems can arise if you do not, such as leaks, blockages, algae growth, pests, freezing, evaporation, and limescale.
In this blog, we will explain how to prevent these problems and how to maintain your water table properly.
Summary
- A water table requires regular maintenance to prevent issues such as leaks, blockages, algae growth, and limescale.
- For good water quality, it is important to monitor the pH level and the oxygen level.
- During the winter months, it is best to empty the water table and cover it, or use a heating element to prevent the water from freezing.
- By using water treatment products, such as algae control agents and water softeners, you can improve water quality and reduce limescale.
How can I prevent problems with my water table?
It is important to regularly maintain your water table to avoid problems. Here are a few tips to keep your water ornament in good condition:
1. Regular cleaning
To avoid blockages, it is important to clean your water table well. Regularly remove leaves, dirt, and other debris that accumulates in the water table. Additionally, you should clean your water ornament at least once a month with a mild cleaning agent. This prevents the formation of algae and limescale and keeps the water clear and fresh.
‘Use a pump or another circulation system to keep the water in your water table moving at all times.’
2. Water quality
It is very important to keep the water quality of your water table well. This ensures that algae and pests do not grow quickly. Regularly refresh the water and add an algae control agent to your water ornament to keep algae growth under control. You can also use distilled water or a water softener to reduce limescale.
For more information on how to maintain water quality, read the section ‘Tips for Maintaining Water Quality’.
3. Leak checks
Regularly check the basin and the connections of the water table for cracks, holes, or worn seals. If you see damage, repair it immediately with a waterproof sealant or a repair kit. This will prevent the damage from worsening.
4. Winter preparation
Before winter begins, it is necessary to prepare your water ornament for winter. Start by completely emptying the water table and covering it well to prevent freezing.
If you choose to leave the water table outside during the winter months, you may consider using a water heating element. This helps prevent the water from freezing.
5. Good water circulation
Good water circulation is important to prevent stagnant water. Stagnant water can lead to algae growth and attract pests. Therefore, it's wise to use a pump or another circulation system to keep the water moving. Don't forget to clean the pump and pipes regularly as well to avoid blockages.
6. Placement of the water table
The spot where you place the water table also plays a significant role in its longevity. Place the water table in the shade or use a cover. This ensures that the water does not evaporate quickly due to direct sunlight. Additionally, it is better not to place the water table under trees, as leaves and debris can fall into the water.
Tip
Sometimes it is unavoidable that the water table is under one or more trees. In that case (especially in autumn), make sure to regularly clear the water ornament of leaves and debris.
Tips for Maintaining Water Quality
To ensure that your water table lasts long and continues to look nice, it's necessary to keep a close eye on the water quality. Here are a few extra tips that can help you with that:
1. Use water treatment products (such as algae control)
Regularly add an algae control agent to the water. This can help you manage algae growth. This keeps the water clear and makes your water table look neat.
Be cautious with corten steel water tables
When using corten steel water tables, do not use acidic herbicides or products containing salt. This can reduce the lifespan of your water table.
You can also use water conditioners. These products not only make the water clearer but also help maintain good water quality.
2. Check pH level
It is important to regularly check the pH level of the water. You can use test strips for that. A good pH level is between 6.5 and 8.5. If the pH level is not within this range, you can use special products to raise or lower the pH level.
3. Oxygen level
Make sure there is sufficient oxygen in the water by keeping the water moving or using an air pump.
‘Place the water table in the shade or use a cover. This ensures that the water does not evaporate quickly due to direct sunlight.’
Common Problems with a Water Ornament
Even if you maintain your water table well, problems can still arise. Below are a few common issues and how to solve them:
My water ornament has a leak
If you notice that the water level in your table is dropping faster than normal, or if there are puddles or wet spots around the table, it may mean there is a leak. This can be caused by:
- Cracks or holes in the basin of the water table
- Worn or poorly sealed connections
- Damaged seals.
Solution
Thoroughly inspect your water table for cracks and other damage. Use a waterproof sealant or a repair kit to fix cracks and replace worn seals. Also, make sure all connections are secure.
My water ornament is blocked
If the water is not draining properly or if water is always standing in the water table, there may be a blockage. This can happen due to a buildup of dirt, leaves, algae, or other material in the drain or pipes.
Solution
Clean the drain and pipes thoroughly to remove the blockage. Remove visible debris by hand or use a plumber's snake or garden hose to flush the blockage away. After cleaning, check that the drain is completely clear and the water can flow out properly again.
My water ornament has algae
Green or brown spots on the water surface, in the basin, or along the edges of the water table indicate the presence of algae. Algae thrive in stagnant water exposed to sunlight, especially if the water is not refreshed often.
Solution
Clean the water table with an algae remover or a mixture of water and vinegar. Ensure good water circulation to avoid stagnant water. You can also add an algae control product to the water. Regularly refresh the water and place the water table as much as possible out of direct sunlight.
My water ornament is frozen
If you leave the table outside in winter, stagnant water can freeze at low temperatures. As a result, the water cannot circulate, and the components of the table may be damaged.
Solution
To ensure that the water does not freeze in winter, you can use a water heating element. If that is not possible, empty the water table and cover it to prevent the water from freezing.
My water ornament has limescale
White, chalky spots on the edges and walls of the water table indicate the presence of limescale. This is caused by hard water, which contains a lot of minerals like calcium and magnesium.
Solution
The water table can be cleaned with a mixture of vinegar and water. This mixture helps remove limescale. To reduce limescale in the future, you can use distilled water or add a water softener to the water.
My water ornament attracts pests
Stagnant water in your water basin can attract pests, such as mosquitoes, flies, and other insects. This happens because stagnant water is an ideal place for these insects to lay their eggs and let their larvae grow. Food or plant debris in the water table can also attract insects.
Solution
Ensure good water circulation to avoid stagnant water. Regularly clean the water table and remove food scraps or other organic material. If necessary, you can use a pest repellent or stretch a net over the water table to keep pests away from the water.
Conclusion
By properly maintaining your water table, it will remain looking nice and in good condition for longer. You do this by regularly cleaning, monitoring the quality of the water, and promptly addressing any issues, such as leaks or algae growth. This keeps your water table functional and looking neat. With the right care, you can enjoy your water table for years to come.
