10 Pond and Waterfall Cleaning Mistakes

A routine cleaning schedule of Maryland area pond and pondless streams is essential for maintaining an attractive and healthy water feature year round. Ponds in Maryland have a longer warm-weather season which allows algae and harmful bacteria to thrive. Additionally, Baltimore and Harford County ponds are affected by seasonal changes. For example, in the fall when leaves and debris from trees and bushes can collect in, and even overwhelm your pond. NEVER neglect seasonal cleaning and maintenance. If you choose to clean your pond yourself here are 10 common pond and waterfall cleaning mistakes to avoid!

1. NEVER clean your pond or stream too often – 1 to 2 times per year is usually enough. Spring and Fall are good times to clean or have your pond professionally cleaned. Cleaning more then twice per year can put undue pressure on the natural and beneficial bacteria needed to maintain a healthy ecosystem for fish and plant life.



2. NEVER use chlorinated water to clean bio-filter – The living bacteria found in your bio-filter is essential for the filter to work properly. Using chlorinated tap water to clean this filter can kill these functional bacteria colonies rendering your bio-filter ineffective. Only use water from your pond, safe well water or water treated with a detoxifier to clean and rinse your bio-filter.
3. NEVER re-introduce fish without using a water detoxifier – When refilling your pond or stream with straight tap water which may contain Chlorine, Chloramines and Heavy Metals, do not re-introduce fish back into the pond until you add a detoxifier. Detoxifiers will remove these harmful elements commonly found in tap water and neutralize ammonia making your pond safe and comfortable for fish and plants.
4. NEVER fall into your pond – The algae and slime that collects on your pond’s boulders, pebbles and liner is very slippery and has sent even some surefooted professional to the deck. Rocks and logs make for a painful landing should you fall while cleaning your pond. If you choose to clean you pond yourself be extremely careful when walking and carrying pond cleaning equipment on the uneven and slippery surfaces common in most ponds.



5. NEVER store removed fish in an open container – Koi and other pond fish will be somewhat skittish when first moved from the large pond to a smaller holding container and therefore more likely to jump out. Also they are easier prey for Herons and animals when confined in a holding container. ALWAYS cover the holding container with a net weighting the edges to keep it tight and in place.
6. NEVER power wash your liner at high pressure – Washing your pond liner at too high pressure can tear and weaken your liner. The seasonal debris that builds up in your pond will usually come clean with minimal water pressure. Additionally the higher the pressure the more mud and gunk that will be deflected back on YOU and splashed on landscaping!



7. NEVER trim plants with power hedge trimmer or sheers too close to liner – One carless slip of the hedge trimmers or sheers can easily slice your liner. It’s best to trim plants out of the pond or if in the pond be very careful and aware of the trimmer blades as they cut plants, keeping them well clear of liner.



8. NEVER use a pond clean out pump without a filter – This will prevent “Koi Chum” keeping your pond’s fish and other aquatic life from getting sucked onto the pump. It also helps to protect the pump itself by keeping larger debris and stones from being sucked through the impellers.



9. NEVER leave hose unattended when filling pond – Just about everyone that has cleaned a pond or stream has walked away and forgot about the running water. This can not only cause damage to your ponds landscaping and your lawn but can cause a fish kill by drastically and quickly changing the temperature and eco-balance of the water.
10. NEVER clean your pond or stream without consulting a professional  – Maryland area pond & pondless stream cleaning can be very messy and time consuming. Also following the correct procedure is critical to your ponds function, appearance, and eco-balance. If you have never done a Maryland area seasonal cleaning of your pond, it is highly recommended that you have it done by a local Baltimore and Harford County professional contractor… at least the first time. Every water feature is different, a local professional will show you the correct, safe, and effective cleaning procedure for YOUR Maryland pond or pondless water feature.

We are a Baltimore Maryland area based full services Pond contractor & Pond Maintenance landscape company specializing in naturalistic water features, and unique outdoor spaces, including Ponds, Water Gardens and Stream Design, Construction, Repair, Renovation & Maintenance Serving the greater Baltimore County Maryland MD area. Arbor Ridge was founded to fill a need for a full service company that truly cares about the details of every project and service.  Please click here to see what our Baltimore area clients have to say about us!

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