Why Should New Jersey Homeowners Winterize Fountainscapes?

As winter approaches in New Jersey, homeowners with fountainscapes must take preventive steps to protect their cherished water features. Freezing temperatures can cause serious damage to pipes, pumps, and structural elements, resulting in costly repairs. Winterizing your fountainscape ensures it stays in pristine condition through the cold months, ready to shine again in the spring.

In this post, we’ll explore why winterization is essential, the risks of neglecting this task, and the professional steps we take to prepare fountainscapes for winter.

The Risks of Skipping Winterization

Failing to winterize your fountainscape can result in a host of issues, including:

1. Plumbing Damage:
   Water left in pipes, fittings, or reservoirs can freeze and expand, leading to cracks, leaks, or ruptures. Repairs to plumbing systems can be both labor-intensive and expensive.
2. Pump Malfunction:
   Pumps are the heart of your fountainscape, circulating water to maintain its beauty and function. Freezing temperatures can destroy internal components, requiring a full replacement.
3. Structural Issues:
   Snow, ice, and debris can accumulate in or on your fountainscape, causing stress and potential damage to the materials. Algae and debris left untreated may also stain surfaces, diminishing the aesthetic appeal.
4. Spring Delays:
   Without proper winterization, the damage discovered in the spring may delay reopening your fountainscape, leaving it out of commission during the early months of the season.

Protecting your investment through winterization is a small step that prevents significant headaches and expenses.

How We Winterize Fountainscapes in New Jersey

We take a comprehensive approach to fountainscape winterization. Here’s a closer look at our process:

1. Draining the Water

We begin by draining all water from the fountainscape. This includes emptying basins, bowls, reservoirs, and any connected water features. Ensuring no water remains eliminates the risk of freezing and expansion, which can cause cracks or other damage.

2. Blowing Out the Plumbing

Using professional-grade air compressors, we blow out every plumbing line to remove residual water. This critical step protects hidden areas like underground tubing or hard-to-reach pipes that could otherwise freeze.

3. Removing and Storing the Pump

The pump is carefully disconnected, cleaned, and stored in a dry, temperature-controlled environment. This prevents freezing and extends the life of this essential component.

4. Thorough Cleaning

Before sealing up your fountainscape, we remove debris, algae, and any buildup. This ensures the water feature remains clean and ready for use when spring arrives. A clean fountainscape also prevents staining and material degradation over the winter.

5. Covering and Securing the Fountainscape

Finally, we apply a durable shrink wrap or weather-resistant cover to protect the fountainscape from snow, ice, and falling debris. This cover shields the structure from winter’s harsh elements, maintaining its integrity and appearance.

When Should You Winterize Your Fountainscape?

Timing is crucial when winterizing fountainscapes in New Jersey. The ideal time is before temperatures consistently drop below freezing—usually late October or early November. Acting early reduces the risk of sudden frost causing unintentional damage.

The Benefits of Professional Winterization

While some homeowners attempt to winterize their fountainscape on their own, hiring a professional offers several distinct advantages:

• Expert Knowledge: Professionals know how to handle complex plumbing systems, pumps, and delicate materials safely.
• Complete Protection: We ensure every part of your fountainscape, from pipes to pumps, is fully prepared for winter.
• Time-Saving: Avoid the hassle of gathering tools, covers, and equipment by leaving the job to the experts.
• Peace of Mind: Rest easy knowing your fountainscape is safeguarded by professionals with years of experience.

What Happens if You Skip Winterization?

For those tempted to forgo winterization, the consequences can be costly. Burst pipes, broken pumps, and degraded materials often require extensive repairs, which may far exceed the cost of winterization. Beyond financial concerns, dealing with spring repairs can also be time-consuming and stressful.

Schedule Your Winterization Service Today

Don’t leave your fountainscape vulnerable to New Jersey’s harsh winter weather. At Atlantis Water Gardens we’re dedicated to helping you protect your investment and keep your water feature looking its best year-round.

Contact Atlantis Water Gardens to schedule your fountainscape winterization. Call us at 973.627.0515 or visit www.atlantiswatergardens.com to secure your appointment before the first freeze hits!

Read more information on winter pond care and tips, and videos on winter topics at these links:
Can You Keep Fish in a Pond Outside All Winter in New Jersey?

How to Prevent Ice Damage to Your Pond in New Jersey: Top Winter Survival Tips

How to Prevent Ice Damage to Your Pond in New Jersey: Top Winter Survival Tips

For more content with tips, tricks and amazing water feature goodness, check us out on YouTube!