How to Winterize an Outdoor Fountain

Remove any plants from the fountain using gloves. If left to die in the winter months, the plants will rot and may damage the fountain's lining. Fish, common in many outdoor fountains, can be relocated to an inside tank or left in the water to hibernate. Reduce their diet so they will become used to the cold weather and lack of food.

Clear all dirt, leaves and algae that is present in the water from the fountain. Sitting water may harbor bacteria, so use caution. If your fountain has a filter, the water may not be as dirty as sitting water but may still be unhealthy to come into direct contact with. Use a brush to scrub the dirt off the fountain. Be careful not to scrub hard enough to remove paint or decorative linings.

Use a cleaning solution that will not harm fish, if any, to clean the water or fountain lining if it is especially dirty. Chemicals that control algae and clarify water can be purchased at pool and spa supplier shops. Consider placing a net over the fountain next season to help prevent leaves and other debris from entering the water.

Drain water from the fountain pipes, filter and pump. Standing water in the fountain pipes may freeze during cold weather and break the pipes. The filter should be removed and cleaned before winter. Make sure it does not have any cracks or abrasions. Turn off and unplug the pump. Do not run the pump during cold months because water may get inside of it and freeze, causing damage to the fountain's mechanics.