How to Winterize Your Outdoor Water Fountain Step by Step

Winterizing your outdoor water fountain is one of the most important seasonal maintenance tasks you can do as a fountain owner. Done correctly, it takes less than an hour and can prevent hundreds of dollars in freeze damage. Done incorrectly — or skipped entirely — a single hard freeze can crack your basin, destroy your pump, and end the season with a costly repair bill.

Here's exactly how to winterize your outdoor water fountain, step by step.

When Should You Winterize?

Start winterizing when your local forecast shows sustained overnight temperatures consistently approaching 32°F (0°C). Don't wait for the first freeze — act 1–2 weeks before freezing temperatures are expected in your area. In most of the continental US, this means late October through mid-November.

What You'll Need

• Bucket or container (for pump storage)
• Soft scrub brush or sponge
• White vinegar or fountain cleaner
• Dry towels or rags
• Waterproof fountain cover or heavy-duty tarp
• Bungee cords or rope (to secure cover)

Step-by-Step Winterization Guide

Step 1: Turn Off and Unplug the Pump

Switch off the pump and unplug it from the power source completely. Never leave a pump running in a fountain that may freeze — ice forming around the impeller will destroy it.

Step 2: Remove the Pump

Carefully remove the pump from the fountain basin. Most FountJoy pumps simply lift out or disconnect with a quick-release fitting. Rinse the pump with clean water to remove algae and mineral buildup.

Step 3: Store the Pump Properly

There are two correct ways to store your pump for winter:

• In water (preferred): Place the pump in a bucket of clean water and store it in a frost-free location (garage, basement, utility room). Keeping the pump submerged preserves the seals and prevents them from drying out and cracking.
• Dry storage: If storing dry, make sure the pump is completely clean and dry before storing in a frost-free indoor space.

Step 4: Drain All Water From the Fountain

Remove as much water as possible from the basin and all tiers. Water expands approximately 9% when it freezes — even small amounts of trapped water can crack resin basins, split tubing, and damage fittings. Use a sponge or towel to soak up remaining water in the bottom of the basin.

Step 5: Clean the Fountain

With the fountain empty, this is the perfect time for a thorough cleaning:

• Scrub the basin and tiers with a soft brush to remove algae and mineral deposits
• For stubborn calcium buildup, apply diluted white vinegar (1 part vinegar : 3 parts water) and let sit for 10–15 minutes before scrubbing
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water
• Wipe down LED light fixtures with a damp cloth

Step 6: Dry Completely

Allow all components to air dry fully — ideally for 24–48 hours. Any trapped moisture can still freeze and cause damage even after draining. Pay special attention to tubing, connectors, and any crevices in tiered sections.

Step 7: Cover the Fountain

Once dry, protect your fountain from snow, ice, and debris:

• Use a purpose-made waterproof fountain cover sized to your fountain, or a heavy-duty outdoor tarp
• Ensure the cover is breathable to prevent moisture buildup and mold
• Secure tightly with bungee cords or rope to prevent wind from blowing it off

Step 8 (Optional): Store Indoors

For smaller or lighter-weight fountains, bringing the entire unit indoors offers maximum protection. A garage, shed, or covered patio provides an ideal environment. FountJoy's resin-composite fountains are lightweight enough to make indoor storage practical for many homeowners.

Quick Reference Checklist

• ☐ Pump turned off and unplugged
• ☐ Pump removed and stored (in water or dry, indoors)
• ☐ All water drained from basin and tiers
• ☐ Fountain cleaned — algae and mineral deposits removed
• ☐ All components fully dry
• ☐ Fountain covered with waterproof cover
• ☐ Cover secured against wind

Final Thoughts

Winterizing your fountain is a small investment of time that pays off every spring. Follow these steps before the first hard freeze and your fountain will be clean, intact, and ready to run the moment warm weather returns.

Shop our full range of easy-to-winterize outdoor water fountains — durable resin composite construction designed for year-round beauty and seasonal simplicity.