How to Clear Algae from a Fountain

Moisture and light are the two key ingredients that create an algae problem in a fountain. Algae can quickly grow out of control without proper care and maintenance. Once algae are present there are ways to clear algae from a fountain that require just a few materials and a little elbow grease.

Things You'll Need

• Toothbrush
• Wet/dry vacuum
• Pipe cleaners
• Dish soap
• White vinegar

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Drain the fountain. You can remove the water by hand using a cup, or for quicker removal use a wet/dry vacuum.

   • 2

     Clean the pump and its tubing and spouts using a toothbrush and a mixture of ½ cup vinegar and 1 gallon of warm water. Rinse clean and allow the parts to dry completely.

   • 3

     Use a toothbrush to scrub the fountain bowl with a vinegar and water mixture. Combine ½ cup vinegar with 1 gallon of water. Rinse the fountain with water and allow the fountain to dry completely.

   • 4

     Clean algae stains with a mixture of dish soap and water. Use a toothbrush to scrub the stains, and rinse with warm water and allow the areas to dry completely.

   • 5

     Soak any rocks or loose parts on the fountain in vinegar. Vinegar helps stop the growth of algae.