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Most Common Pond - Water Feature Problems We've Had To Fix | Rochester New York | NY  Would you like to save a lot of money, time and headaches on your new project? Of course, who wouldn't right? Over the past 20+ years customers have come to us with all kinds of water feature problems throughout the Rochester New York area and beyond. An improperly designed waterfall can cause a great deal of water loss, or it may just look unnatural and need a face lift or rejuvenation. It's sad but true, our primary business is refurbishing and maintaining existing ponds to make them function properly. Some of these ponds installed by other "professional" pond installers or landscapers leave little to be desired, and loads of problems that drive people crazy and force them to look for help. If you are thinking to hire a professional, please be sure to research your contractor first. This could save a lot of frustration down the road. We've been hired numerous times to re-do a pond that was recently built. Water features are meant to help you relax and enjoy them, not get you frustrated.  SOME OF OUR MOST COMMON WATER GARDEN ISSUES THAT WE HAVE HEARD OVER THE LAST 20+ YEARS
Your Water Feature Deserves The Best Care Possible
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls will ensure your pond is running as smoothly as the day it was installed. That way, you can enjoy the tranquility afforded by a water garden without the hassle of maintenance responsibilities. Some of Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls maintenance services include:
Some Helpful Links:
RENOVATIONS | INSTALLATIONS | MAINTENANCE
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10 Reasons For Cleaning Your Pond Or Water Feature In Rochester New York (NY)  There are several reasons to clean your pond. Let's talk about some of them.
Your Water Feature Deserves The Best Care Possible
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls will ensure your pond is running as smoothly as the day it was installed. That way, you can enjoy the tranquility afforded by a water garden without the hassle of maintenance responsibilities. Some of Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls maintenance services include:
Some Helpful Links:
RENOVATIONS | INSTALLATIONS | MAINTENANCE Pond Damage (Leaks) By Mice, Rodents & Chipmunks | Rochester | New York | NY  Have you noticed you are losing water in your Rochester (NY) pond or water feature? Sometimes what you think is a leak is really a rodent issue! Check around your feature (including in back of it) occasionally for any rodent activity. They can undermine your equipment, and even chew through liner and plumbing, causing some major damage. Give Your Pond or Water Feature Some Much Needed Care! Outdoor ponds and water features require routine maintenance for ongoing performance, functionality, and enjoyment. Relax and reap the benefits of your water garden while Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls handle all the upkeep. From seasonal maintenance, leak detection, water clarity issues to rejuvenations Acorn can help. Some Helpful Links: How To Get Rid Of Pond Algae Small Backyard Inspirational Ideas Planning A Pond Renovation? Is The Pond Too Hot For My Koi? RENOVATIONS | INSTALLATIONS | MAINTENANCEHow To Measure Pond Water Level|Water Loss|Leaks|Rochester|New York|NY  If you think you might have a leak or just want to monitor the water level in your Rochester (NY) pond, looking at water lines on rocks is NOT an indication of water loss. Water wicks on rocks and varies, making it ebb and flow and not a good way to see if you are losing water. For a good reference, check for something that is plastic, like your skimmer box. Plastic does not hold water and will be a much better way to assess any water loss. Inside the skimmer there is usually screws that could be used to mark the water level. Some Helpful Links: RENOVATIONS | INSTALLATIONS | MAINTENANCESpring Pond Maintenance|Issues|Repairs|Rochester|New York|NY  In Rochester New York, during the spring clean out is generally the best time to address any issues you might be having with your water feature like underwater lights, low liner edges (leak detection), algae, water clarity and other potential repairs. Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls will already be in there and pumping out water to clean the pond, making it a good time to for adjustments and improvements. Some Helpful Links: Is Adding Beneficial Pond Bacteria Worth It? What is an Exploratory Pond Cleaning? Most Effective Way To Filter Pond Water What Is The Importance Of Cleaning MY Pond This Spring? Planning A Pond Renovation In Rochester New York (NY)? RENOVATIONS | INSTALLATIONS | MAINTENANCEWhat Is The Importance Of Cleaning My Fish Pond This Spring?|Rochester|NY|New York|Near Me Spring is here in Rochester (NY) and we recommend that your pond receive a full cleaning at least once or twice per year by Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls to help maintain its low maintenance and beautiful appearance. Failure to perform an annual clean out could result in increased maintenance or fish health issues not to mention possible increased repairs for your pond or pump. 
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Completely removing algae from the pond ecosystem isn’t good though. Some algae need to be present to filter your pond, aerate it, and feed the fish.
Doing a spring pond cleaning we can remove the debris and sludge from your pond, minimize algae, and get your pond back to its original state in no time!
Act now to clear your pond of an algae infestation, and enjoy your own oasis.
Act now to clear your pond of an algae infestation, and enjoy your own oasis.
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If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) (585) 442-6373
Backyard Pond|Restoration|Repair|Rochester|New York|NY|Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls
Have you been thinking about planning a pond renovation in Rochester New York (NY), or what you might want to do to change and enhance your existing fish pond or waterfall? If you’re still dreaming of your first fish pond or waterfall, this too is a great time to plan for that!
Pond Renovation Project By Acorn In Rochester New York (NY)
Research Your Contractor
Research your contractors to make sure you are making the right decision. Someone telling you to rebuild the entire pond without options to repair the one you have most likely doesn't know where to start when trying to repair your current pond problem.
 Before Waterfall Renovation In Rochester NY By Acorn |  After Waterfall Renovation In Rochester NY By Acorn |
Hopefully You're Well On Your Way To Dreaming About Creating Or Enhancing Your Own Personal Paradise In Rochester NY
Spillway Bowls Water Features In Rochester NY
If you have a small space that you would like to add a little bit of paradise to, the patio pond or spillway bowl might be a great option for you. Or, perhaps you would like to test the waters of owning a pond a container water garden is a great place to start!
Add Tranquility & Beauty To Any Rochester NY Garden With Our Bubbling Rock Water Features Or Garden Fountains!
Consider Acorn's Bubbling Boulders Or Rock Fountains!
Need Help With Your Vision? Contact Acorn To Design Your Own Personal Paradise Now! (585) 442-6373
A fountain incorporated with a well thought out landscape plan, some decorative stone, and maybe some light can make for a very eye appealing creation. Something good for adding a little trickling water sound in a small area of your garden like near your front door or patio. They can be very sustainable by using rainwater to refill and top off the evaporated water. LED Lighting can be added for extending your enjoyment time into the night.
What do you envision for your own personal oasis?
Right now – when your thoughts, ideas, and mental plans for your dream garden and fish pond are still fresh in your mind – is the time to get them on paper. Dreaming is always the first step to planning. In your mind, what would be the perfect backyard paradise? Here are some questions to ask yourself as you search for your perfect pond makeover.
- What do you enjoy most about water gardening – the plants, fish, frogs, turtles, birds, or terrestrial landscaping? Build your dream pond with that as your emphasis.
- What places have you visited that look and feel “perfect” to you? A stream in the mountains? A spring in the woods? Recreate aspects of these places on a smaller scale.
- Where do you spend most of your time when you’re at home? Will you spend more time outside or inside? Plan with that in mind.
- What would make your yard a “paradise?”
- Would you like to be able to swim with your fish in a recreational pond?
- What do you like (or dislike) about your existing pond?
- Do you like the tropics? Find some rare plants and bring them into your own backyard.
Hire Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls To Design, Build & Maintain Your Backyard Pond In Rochester New York (NY) - Call Us Today! (585)-442-6373
Let's Get Started On Building Your Dream Pond
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls is offering this blog as a personal information source to our website visitors & Rochester NY Pond Owners. Our Pond & Water Feature Services are performed in Monroe County Rochester, Buffalo New York (NY) & Surrounding Western (NY) areas. Pond Maintenance, Pond Construction & Pond Repair are all in our wheelhouse of talent. Explore our website for more ideas.
What To Do When Your Fish Pond Freezes Over|Rochester|NY|New York|Near Me
Upon arriving to my Rochester New York (NY) home after being out of town this March, I discovered my fish pond had completely frozen over. My floating pond de-icer and and solid handling pump were not running and my gfi outlet was tripped. It is very important for the health of your koi and pond fish to keep an opening in the ice so the toxic gases of decomposing plants and organic matter can escape and not get trapped under the ice. Use this as a reminder to check on your ponds throughout the winter and make sure there is an opening in the ice.
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If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373
Helpful Pond Info Links:
Customer Review|Koi Pond Repair Services|Pond Company|Rochester New York|NY
Koi Pond Repair & Renovation In Rochester NY July, 2017
"We called Acorn because our pond that was constructed by a different company had turned out to be a disaster for a multitude of reasons. Unfortunately for us, the pond had to be totally reconstructed. Thank God we discovered Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls! From the first day we called and talked with Tom, his company has been very professional, showed up on time and their workmanship is second to none.
Tom is very passionate about his work and has shared his ideas on how to keep our pond looking good. The newly renovated pond is so much easier to maintain. I am very pleased with their work and highly recommend them with no reservations whatsoever! Tom, thank you for everything you've done for us. I am so grateful!"
-Carol M.
Penfield New York (NY)
Google+ Review
"We called Acorn because our pond that was constructed by a different company had turned out to be a disaster for a multitude of reasons. Unfortunately for us, the pond had to be totally reconstructed. Thank God we discovered Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls! From the first day we called and talked with Tom, his company has been very professional, showed up on time and their workmanship is second to none.
Tom is very passionate about his work and has shared his ideas on how to keep our pond looking good. The newly renovated pond is so much easier to maintain. I am very pleased with their work and highly recommend them with no reservations whatsoever! Tom, thank you for everything you've done for us. I am so grateful!"
-Carol M.
Penfield New York (NY)
Google+ Review
Build & Maintain Your Pond With Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls are the leading service providers for water gardens, water features, and products for backyard ponds.
Have A Backyard Water Feature Project In Mind? We’re Ready When You Are. Contact Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Today. (585) 442-6373
How To Fix Fish Pond| Waterfall | leaks |Rochester|New York|NY
Is There A Leak In Your Pond, Or Are Your Frogs & Fish Drinking All The Water?
Leaks are among the most misunderstood and misdiagnosed problems anyone can have in their Rochester New York (NY) pond or waterfall.
Understanding the basic principles of leak detection and repair will save you time, money, and headaches in your water gardening adventures …
I guarantee it!
Understanding the basic principles of leak detection and repair will save you time, money, and headaches in your water gardening adventures …
I guarantee it!
What Is Evaporation?
First, let's have a look at what evaporation is and what it isn't. Evaporation is caused by water turning into a vapor and escaping from your pond. The amount of water loss will vary according to the region of the country and the time of year.
Ponds that are located in areas of the country with moderate temperatures and high humidity can expect to see 1 to 1 ½ inches of water loss per week during the spring and summer. Most of this evaporation should be replaced naturally by rain. However, if you live in an area with high temperatures and low humidity, it's possible to see 3 inches or more of evaporation in a week.
The quantity and size of your waterfall(s) will also affect the amount of water that is lost. Regardless of the climate, a 4'x 6'pond with a 20-foot stream and 5 feet of cascading waterfalls may lose as much as 2 inches or more every day!
Why? Splashing and moving water has greater exposure to additional evaporation than does the still water in the pond. If that same pond was 16' x 21' pond, you'd probably never even notice the additional evaporation because it's a larger pond.
Ponds that are located in areas of the country with moderate temperatures and high humidity can expect to see 1 to 1 ½ inches of water loss per week during the spring and summer. Most of this evaporation should be replaced naturally by rain. However, if you live in an area with high temperatures and low humidity, it's possible to see 3 inches or more of evaporation in a week.
The quantity and size of your waterfall(s) will also affect the amount of water that is lost. Regardless of the climate, a 4'x 6'pond with a 20-foot stream and 5 feet of cascading waterfalls may lose as much as 2 inches or more every day!
Why? Splashing and moving water has greater exposure to additional evaporation than does the still water in the pond. If that same pond was 16' x 21' pond, you'd probably never even notice the additional evaporation because it's a larger pond.
What It Isn't
Evaporation is not filling your pond up all the way one evening, and waking up the next morning to find the water six inches lower. That's a leak! If your pond is experiencing a loss of water at a more rapid rate, you either have a leak, or your frogs are drinking the water. Seriously, let's figure that it's a leak. What do you do then?
Low Edges
Look for any low edges. Settling at the pond's edge is the most common cause of a leak, especially in a new pond. Typically, the low edges are found around the stream and waterfall where settling may have occurred after a few rainfalls. These areas are usually built up during the construction of the pond using the soil from the excavation, and are prone to some settling.
Your first line of defense is to carefully inspect the edges of not only your stream and waterfall, but also the perimeter of the pond. As the dirt around the stream or waterfall settles, it can create low spots that may cause water to escape over the edge of the liner.
Keep your eyes peeled for wet mulch or gravel, or muddy areas around the perimeter of yourpond. If you find a spot that's leaking, all you have to do is lift the liner up and push some soil under it in order to raise the edge. Bingo – leak fixed!
Another possibility is that water is splashing out of your stream. To fix a "splash leak," all you have to do is adjust a few of the rocks under and around your waterfall. This will contain or redirect the splash and it will stop the splash leak. Once again, you've solved the problem the easy and cost-effective way ... using common sense.
Low edges can be built back up by simply backfilling and compacting soil beneath the liner in order to raise the edge of the liner above the water level.
Obstructions In The Stream And Waterfalls
In addition to checking for low edges, you should also check your stream and waterfall. Rocks and excessive plant or algae growth in the stream or BIOFALLS filter can restrict the flow of water and divert it over the edge of the liner. Plants and algae should be maintained by trimming them back in order to let the water pass freely. All in all, these leaks are extremely easy to fix
Still Leaking?
You've spent 15 minutes or so following the suggestions listed above and you still can't find the leak. What do you do next? It's time for a little more work, and some drastic measures. You'll have to shut your pump off for a day. By doing this, you'll be able to determine the approximate location of the leak.
- Make sure the pond is filled to the appropriate level.
- Unplug the pump.
- Let the pond sit for 24 hours.
- If the water level drops, then you know the leak is in the pond.
When The Water Drops
- To find out where the leak is occurring, allow the water level to continue to drop. The level where the water stops dropping is the level where the leak is located.
- Concentrate your search around the perimeter of the pond at the level that the water has stopped dropping.
Now the fun begins! At this point, you may want to consider calling in Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls, but if you want to continue on your own you'll need to:
- Remove any rocks around the entire perimeter at the level where the water stopped. You can then carefully check for some sort of puncture, or hole in the liner.
- When you find the hole, you simply patch it with a liner patch kit available at pond supply retailers.
- Now you can replace the rocks, fill the pond back to the top, and enjoy!
Steady And Level
If the water level remains the same, then it is safe to assume that the leak is not in the pond. Now you'll need to check the pipe, the plumbing fittings, and the pump connections for leaks.
Another possible culprit is the faceplate of your skimmer, if you have one. If the water level stopped dropping above the bottom of the faceplate you should investigate the skimmer. It may not have sealed correctly.
If the Leak Is in the Skimmer
It's not fun when your pond is losing water. It can be a time-consuming and frustrating process to locate the leak. Hopefully with these steps and tips, you can quickly locate the source of the leak and get right back to enjoying your water garden.
Another possible culprit is the faceplate of your skimmer, if you have one. If the water level stopped dropping above the bottom of the faceplate you should investigate the skimmer. It may not have sealed correctly.
If the Leak Is in the Skimmer
- Investigate the skimmer faceplate without disassembling it.
- Simply move a few rocks around the front of the skimmer and slide your hand behind the liner, feeling for wet soil around the opening of the skimmer. If the soil is saturated, then the faceplate may have not been installed properly and might be the source of the leak.
- Remove the faceplate, clean all of the old silicone off the liner, and refer back to the instruction manual on proper procedures for sealing the skimmer faceplate to the skimmer. Hopefully, you've solved the leak.
It's not fun when your pond is losing water. It can be a time-consuming and frustrating process to locate the leak. Hopefully with these steps and tips, you can quickly locate the source of the leak and get right back to enjoying your water garden.
It’s A Great Time To Upgrade Your Pond.
When your pond is in need of repair or a total renovation, it is a great time to look into the upgrades you always wanted.
Have you thought about…
Have you thought about…
- Adding a waterfall to your pond?
- Putting in decorative lights?
- Using a safety edge for added reassurance?
- Adding a stream with your waterfall?
- Installing a bog filter?
If Your Pond Is Experiencing A Leak, Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Can Help You, Call Us 585-442-6373
Some Helpful Pond Info Links:
Author
Landscape Designer / Pond Contractor, Tom Warmerdam has been designing, installing & maintaining koi ponds, water features, patios, landscape lighting & creating outdoor living area paradises all around Rochester, New York (NY) for over 30 years. His company Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls was awarded by Aquascape Inc. as one of the top 100 in North America in 2014. He has been attending conferences at Aquascape headquarters every year since 2004 in Chicago, Ill to maintain his Certification(Certified Aquascape Contractor) status.
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