Indoor Fountain Troubleshooting Guide

Indoor Fountain Troubleshooting Guide

Indoor fountains are surprisingly easy to care for, but if your beautiful piece isn't operating as it should, you may feel a rush of panic. Before you assume that it's broken, which it's probably not, put this troubleshooting guide to good use.

Pump is Loud

The first thing to check is the water level. The pump must be fully submerged to operate correctly and quietly. Next, make sure the pump is not right against the inside of the basin. If it is, then the vibration is likely making the noise. You can also put a Scotchbrite pad or something similar under the pump to act as a cushion and minimize vibrations.

No Water Flow

If the pump is on, but no water is flowing check the tubing to make sure it is connected to the pump. It is common for the tubing to come unattached during the cleaning process. You can use electrical tape to force a tight connection.

If the tubing is connected, but there is no water flow check for a kink in the tubing. You can also try tapping the pump to see if the impeller is stuck. Tapping on a hard surface will often loosen it, so it spins again. The impeller could need cleaning, too. Lastly, try unplugging and then plugging back in to see if the disruption in operation removes a possible air bubble

Tubing Issue

As mentioned, electrical tape will form a tight connection, if the tubing is loose. You can also fasten it in place with a hose clasp. If it is tight, heat the end with boiling water, so it is pliable enough to force around the connection. When it cools it will contract and form a tight seal.

Pump Stopped Working

If the pump is submerged and the tubing is connected, but it's still not working it could need cleaning. Dust and dander can easily accumulate inside and compromise operation. Placing the pump in a sheer pantyhose that is clamped close can help keep your pump clean.

Undesirable Smell

Your fountain should not smell. If it does it needs cleaning. You don't want to let the water get to this point because it becomes harder to clean. So reevaluate your cleaning schedule. The odor is coming from algae. There are indoor water fountain treatments that help prevent this and prolong the amount of time you can take between cleanings.

White Stuff on the Fountain

That white stuff you are seeing is known as white scale. Some refer to it as lime deposits. These deposits are caused by hard water. Ideally, you will use distilled water. If this is not an option, there are fountain treatments available that prevent these deposits, and they work with regular tap water. A solution of white distilled vinegar and water will usually work. Stubborn stains need a calcium lime remover.  Removing calcium deposits can be a chore but proper preventative work helps.