Monday, April 27, 2009

Caring For Your Indoor Water Fountain

Mineral deposits from tap water cause lime to build up in, on and around your indoor water fountain and will cause problems for you. The problem is that the mineral concentration increases over time because the old minerals don’t go away when you add more minerals with each water refill, so at first nothing seem to be amiss. However, when the concentration starts to build, the problem worsens rapidly. When minerals accumulate, you will notice white streaks or spots on and around your indoor water fountain. Let’s look at how to avoid, or at least minimize, the problem.

The very best choice for your indoor water fountain is to fill (and re-fill) its reservoir with de-ionized water (99+% free of all minerals). Most natural food stores and other outlets where you can re-fill your own water container have machines that dispense de-ionized water. Some stores only dispense “purified or “distilled” waters, so look mover your choices before filling. The local natural foods grocery charges only $0.39 to fill a gallon container with de-ionized water-- really affordable, and a “green” solution, since I keep refilling the same bottles. Best of all, constant use of de-ionized water virtually eliminates the need to get rid of mineral build-up.


I keep a supply of de-ionized water on hand in lightweight plastic one-gallon containers, so I don’t have to run to the store for water re-fills very often. How much water you’ll need for your backup supply depends on the rate of evaporation in your area, this will relate to a combination the dryness of your local climate & the type of heating system in your home, and how often you are in the area of the store that dispenses de-ionized water.

My next blog will review the cleaning process with an older fountain.


In the meantime, enjoy your indoor water fountain.

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