Water features are exposed to the elements and can develop problems over time from natural wear and tear. Other common causes of water feature problems include lack of maintenance and improper installation.

Ignoring water feature problems could prove to be a grave mistake. The longer you wait to address an issue, the worse it gets. An unaddressed water feature problem can affect your water feature’s performance and its lifespan.

Here are some common water feature problems experienced by homeowners in Scottsdale and their solutions.

Leaks

A leak can cause your pond to lose water at a faster rate than usual and you may have to refill it frequently, which can be frustrating and inconvenient. Leaks in a pond can be caused by a hole or tear in the liner. Have a pond contractor repair leaks as soon as possible. If the leak is too bad, it may make sense to replace your liner.

In summer, when their pond starts losing water at a faster rate than usual, many pond owners struggle to determine if increased rates of evaporation or a leak is the cause this problem.

You can determine if your pond is naturally losing water due to higher evaporation rates or due to a leak by noticing the rate at which water goes down. Evaporation occurs gradually over time. A leak, on the other hand, can cause a pond to lose water rapidly.

To find out if you have a leak, fill up your pond. Measure the water level the next morning. If it has gone down by two inches or more, you are dealing with a leak.

Clogged Filters

Over time, your pond filter can become clogged with dirt, dust, and debris such as leaves and twigs. You know you have a clogged filter if your fish seem sick, your water smells, or it is not as clear as it should be.

To clean a clogged pond filter, first remove the pump, basket, check valve, mat, and anything else in the filter. Use a power washer to clean only those parts that can withstand the high-water pressure.

Remove any chunks of debris settled at the bottom with your hand. Clean the filter media with a hose. Use the water from your pond for cleaning. After you have got rid of dirt and dust, put the filter back together.

To prevent frequent problems, periodically clean your filter. If your filter becomes clogged frequently, you may need a larger filter.

Low Pond Edges

Over time, pond edges can start to settle, causing a leak. Pond edges often settle around the stream. Carefully inspect this area. Some signs that settling has occurred include wet mulch and gravel, puddles of water around the outside edges, and muddy areas.

Pondscapes is a leading pond contractor serving Arizona. We take the guesswork out of pond design, repair, and maintenance. We have years of experience transforming ordinary backyards into extraordinary outdoor spaces with beautiful ponds. To schedule water feature repair in Scottsdale, call (480) 987-7781.