How to Clean Copper Fountains

Cleaning the Pump

• 1

  Remove the pump from your fountain.

• 2

  Wipe off the outer casing using a soft cotton cloth.

• 3

  Remove the outer case to expose the inside of the pump.

• 4

  Clean the inner portion of the pump by removing dirt and debris with a cotton cloth.

Cleaning the Copper

• 5

  Avoid copper cleaners to protect the clear or powder-coated finish on copper fountains to keep the desired "verdigris," or natural green patina, that occurs on your fountain.

• 6

  Use a household furniture polish on a soft cotton cloth to gently buff your clear-coated copper fountain. This can be done on a regular basis to keep your fountain looking good.

• 7

  Apply turtle wax every two to three months if your copper fountain has been clear-coated. This will extend the use of the coating. Use caution not to get wax in the fountain water, which may damage the pump.

• 8

  Use calcium lime remover (CLR) to remove oxidation from your copper fountain. Adhere to the manufacturer's instructions for application. This product is usually applied with a rag. Caution should be taken to keep CLR away from chlorine or acid-based products. Toxic gas can be emitted when the two substances are mixed.