Water features in Ottawa bring a sense of calm, movement, and luxury to outdoor spaces. Whether it's a peaceful backyard pond, a sleek modern fountain, or a cascading waterfall, these features can dramatically enhance your garden’s beauty and value. But in a city like Ottawa, where the seasons can be extreme, proper care and maintenance are essential to keep your water feature looking and functioning at its best. Here’s your comprehensive guide to maintaining your water feature through all seasons.
Leaves, twigs, and grass clippings are your water feature’s worst enemies — especially in the fall. Allowing them to settle and decay in the water can lead to algae blooms and unpleasant odours. Use a skimmer or pond net weekly to remove floating debris, and trim overhanging plants and trees to prevent build-up. Tip: In autumn, consider installing a leaf net over ponds or fountains to catch falling leaves before they sink and rot.
Between hot summers and icy winters in Ottawa, water levels in your feature can fluctuate. Low levels may expose the pump or cause it to run dry, while overfilling can lead to overflow and water wastage. Tip: Check water levels every few days, especially during heatwaves or after rainstorms, and refill as needed with fresh water. For ponds with fish, always use dechlorinated water.
The pump is the engine of your water feature — if it stops, the entire system suffers. Clean it monthly (or more often if surrounded by trees or plants), and inspect the filters for blockages. A clogged or dirty pump can cause water flow problems and reduce the life of the system. Tip: Keep a backup pump or parts on hand so you're never caught off guard during peak usage.
A little algae is normal, but too much can ruin the look of your water feature and harm plants or fish. Use eco-safe algae treatments or introduce beneficial bacteria that naturally break down waste and reduce green water. Natural solutions:
Ottawa winters are no joke. Before the first frost hits, take time to winterize your water feature. Drain smaller features like fountains to prevent cracks caused by ice expansion. For ponds, install a pond heater or aerator to prevent a solid freeze, which could harm fish or plumbing. Tip: Store pumps indoors during the winter and disconnect any water lines to avoid freezing damage.
If your water level drops suddenly and it’s not due to evaporation, you might have a leak. Walk around the water feature and inspect the edges for wet spots, tears in the liner, or loose rocks. The sooner you catch a leak, the easier it is to fix. Tip: Turn off the pump and monitor water levels for 24 hours to confirm if the leak is in the basin or the plumbing.
Plants add beauty and shade, but they can also drop debris into the water. Keep surrounding bushes and flowers trimmed back, and remove any overgrown roots or shoots that might interfere with your liner or pump. Bonus: Choose native or low-maintenance plants that complement your water feature and thrive in Ottawa’s climate.
While weekly upkeep is essential, a deep clean at least once per season helps maintain long-term performance and appearance. This might include:
Tip: Avoid using soaps or detergents — they can harm aquatic life and plants.
Sometimes, it’s best to leave it to the experts. A professional water feature inspection can identify hidden issues like worn pumps, slow leaks, or declining water quality. At Urban Living Landscaping, we offer seasonal maintenance services to keep your feature in top shape without the hassle.
With just a little regular care, your Ottawa water feature will stay clear, beautiful, and peaceful all year long. Whether you’re relaxing on your patio or hosting a garden party, a well-maintained fountain or pond adds that perfect finishing touch to your outdoor space.Ready to upgrade your backyard or need help with maintenance? Contact Urban Living Landscaping today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our custom water feature services in Ottawa.