How to Maintain a Running Pond in Winter

While ponds and other water features may receive a lot of attention and admiration throughout spring, summer, and fall, it is crucial to focus on preventative maintenance and care in winter. Freezing temperatures and ice formations can pose several problems for your pond, especially if you will be keeping fish in it throughout the winter months. As leading providers of high-quality ecosystem ponds, swim ponds, fountains, and pondless waterfalls, the team at Fontana Ponds & Water Features knows how difficult it can be to maintain a running pond in winter. That is why we have compiled a list of 3 crucial steps to help you keep your pond running, healthy, and in optimal condition for spring.

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3 Steps to Maintain Running Ponds in Winter

The following steps must be completed to ensure optimal pond health and leak prevention during winter:

1. Keep a Hole in The Ice

Once temperatures drop below freezing, you will likely notice the surface of your pond icing over. While your first instinct may be to destroy this ice and remove any fish to keep them safe, this will not be necessary if your pond is at least two feet deep. The fish will hibernate at the bottom of the pond where the water is warmer. Though you will not need to remove your fish, you will need to ensure that there is one hole in the ice to allow for the exchange of gases between the air and water.

2. Do Not Create Unnecessary Openings

Ice on the top layer of your pond acts as a barrier between the cold air outside and the water running underneath it. Breaking open the ice or creating multiple holes increases the exposure of running water to freezing temperatures, increasing ice buildup and depleting water levels. This prevents your water source from running underneath the ice to reach your pump below, increasing the risk of leaks and other damage.

3. Watch for Water Running Over Ice Buildups

In winter, you may notice that an area of your pond is frozen and has water running over it and out of the pond. This is a crucial issue that can lead to excess ice in your yard and damage to your pond. To correct this, open a hole where the damming occurs to allow water to run back into the pond. An effective way to eliminate excess ice is to pour warm water over it to melt the ice dam. De-icing products can also be effective, though it is crucial to ensure that you do not use too much. Always read and follow the label to ensure optimal results.

To learn more about pond maintenance or to inquire about our installation services, get in touch with the team at Fontana Ponds & Water Features. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our services.