Should I Leave My Metal Water Feature On All The Time?
Metal water features - especially durable corten steel water features - are favoured for their qualities of adding tranquillity and visual appeal to the garden. But a common question is: Should corten water fountains run 24/7, or are they better off at regular intervals? This article explores the pros and cons of this, focusing on why continuous operation is often more beneficial for metal water features, especially the resilient corten steel design.
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Top Benefits of Running Your Fountain Pump 24/7
Keep the Water Fresh and Clean
Continuous water circulation oxygenates the water and prevents stagnation, which is a breeding ground for algae and bacteria. For corten water features, this means less dirt build-up on their rust-coloured surfaces, which maintains their unique aesthetic quality over time. At the same time, unpleasant odours are avoided, ensuring that the water feature remains an attractive focal point in the garden.
Protecting the Pump and Extending Its Service Life
The pumps in corten water feature are designed for continuous operation. Frequent switching on and off puts pressure on the motor and shortens its service life - especially in heavy metal designs such as corten steel, the pressure on the pump can affect the entire structure of the installation. Furthermore, continuous flow keeps the pump underwater and cool at all times, reducing the risk of overheating.
Reducing Pests and Mineral Deposits
Flowing water interferes with the breeding cycle of mosquitoes (which lay their eggs in still water), which is a major advantage for outdoor metal water features near rest areas. It also prevents the deposition of minerals (e.g. calcium) on metal surfaces, which is vital for metal water fountains - their natural patina remains smooth and is not damaged by unsightly crusts (crusts).
Reduce Long-Term Maintenance
Flowing water makes it less likely that debris such as leaves and dirt will be deposited, reducing clogging of pumps or metal surfaces. For low-maintenance metal water features, this means that fewer repairs are needed in the long term.
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Risks of Closing Metal Water Feature Installations
Still Water: a Breeding Ground for Problems
Still water in rusted water features can quickly become a breeding ground for algae, slime and bacteria that can contaminate or corrode metal surfaces - even durable corten steel if left untreated. Also, when restarted, debris or algae blockages may jam the motor, requiring costly repairs.
Reduced Pump Life
Pumps in metal outdoor fountains (designed for slow, steady operation) wear out more quickly during frequent on/off cycles. This is especially unfortunate for high-quality corten steel water features, which are supposed to be designed for long-lasting use.
Attracting Unwanted Pests
Mosquitoes and other insects breed vigorously in still water, which can turn your metal water fountain from an asset to an annoyance.
Critical Times to Turn Your Water Fountain Off
Whilst continuous operation is ideal, there are situations where it is necessary to switch off - even for robust corten steel water features:
Cold Winter Months
Water expands as it freezes, which may cause cracking of the metal structure (including corten steel) and damage to pumps. Before the temperature drops, drain the water from the water feature, remove the pump and store it indoors, then cover the water feature with a waterproof cover to protect it from snow, sleet and ice.
During Strong Storms
Lightning and power surges are a risk; strong winds may blow debris into the water and clog the pump. Switching off the power will protect the water feature and its components.
Before Cleaning and Maintenance
Always switch off the power before scrubbing surfaces, clearing blockages or checking components. This is safer and prevents damage to metal surfaces (essential to protect the unique rust layer of corten steel).
When Away From Home For Long Periods
If there is no automatic water replenishment system, the water level may drop when left unattended, causing the pump to idle. In this case, the garden water feature should be switched off and emptied.
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Tips For Saving On The Power Bill
Regular Cleaning
For metal waterfall fountains (especially weather resistant steel water features), light monthly cleaning will remove debris without damaging their protective rust coating. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the metal.
Optimising Pump Efficiency
Choose the right size pump for your water feature: a pump that is too big wastes energy; a pump that is too small puts a strain on the motor. Energy-efficient models are suitable for 24-hour operation.
Monitor Water Levels
Evaporation is normal - replenish water regularly to keep the pump submerged. Corten water features often have deep, stable pools, which makes this easy to do.
Why Corten Water Features Excel at Continuous Operation?
Outdoor metal water fountains are particularly well suited for 24-hour operation:
- Corrosion resistance: its natural rust layer holds up well to continuous water flow, resisting damage from moisture and minerals.
- Low maintenance: unlike other metals, corten does not require frequent sealing or patching, even in continuous operation.
- Structural durability: strong enough to withstand minor vibrations from continuous pump operation, ensuring long-term stability.
Try to Keep Water Feature Running All The Time
For metal water features - especially sturdy large metal outdoor fountains - running it all the time is usually the best option. It maintains water quality, protects the pump, and reduces insect and mineral deposits. It only needs to be shut down during extreme conditions (freezing weather, storms) or for maintenance.
Corten water features perform well in continuous operation, grow more beautiful over time and are perfect for creating a tranquil atmosphere in your garden.
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