Are backyard water features worth it?

• <div><p>Backyard water features can add serenity to your property, drown out neighborhood noise, and serve as a focal point to a stunning landscape design. In some cases, a properly installed and maintained water feature can add to your home’s value. Just be sure to check with your insurance company before installation since some features may affect your premiums. </p></div>

Should I leave water in my pond over the winter?

• <div><p>Even if you empty your pond before the winter, there’s a good chance it will refill naturally. It’s ideal in most cases, then, to leave water in your pond and winterize it instead. This method will prevent ice damage and protect wildlife. Plus, it’ll lessen the steps required to reopen your pond in the spring.</p></div>

How often should pond water be changed?

• <div><p>Pond water should be changed approximately once a week. When you change it, change around 10% to15% of the water. It’s important to monitor the quality of your pond water as this will determine if it needs to be changed more often, or if you should be changing more or less than 15% of it when you do so.</p></div>

Do natural pools attract snakes?

• <div><p>Natural pools don’t necessarily attract snakes, although there is a chance they could stop by for a quick visit. They’re not likely to stay, however, because there’s nothing for snakes to eat in a natural pool environment. A well-maintained natural pool has clear water, so you should be able to easily spot a snake before diving in.</p></div>

How do I maintain my pond?

• <div><p>To maintain your pond, you’ll need to occasionally <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-clean-your-backyard-koi-pond.htm">clean your backyard pond</a>, especially if you have koi fish. Test the water twice a week to make sure your fish have everything they need and always remove visible debris.</p></div>

Top 10 Best Fountain pros in Milford, DE

Q: Should I leave water in my pond over the winter?

• <div><p>Even if you empty your pond before the winter, there&rsquo;s a good chance it will refill naturally. It&rsquo;s ideal in most cases, then, to leave water in your pond and winterize it instead. This method will prevent ice damage and protect wildlife. Plus, it&rsquo;ll lessen the steps required to reopen your pond in the spring.</p></div>

Q: Do natural pools attract snakes?

• <div><p>Natural pools don&rsquo;t necessarily attract snakes, although there is a chance they could stop by for a quick visit. They&rsquo;re not likely to stay, however, because there&rsquo;s nothing for snakes to eat in a natural pool environment. A well-maintained natural pool has clear water, so you should be able to easily spot a snake before diving in.</p></div>

Q: How do I maintain my pond?

• <div><p>To maintain your pond, you&rsquo;ll need to occasionally <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-clean-your-backyard-koi-pond.htm">clean your backyard pond</a>, especially if you have koi fish. Test the water twice a week to make sure your fish have everything they need and always remove visible debris.</p></div>

Find Fountain pros in Milford

First State Ponds and Fountains

4.73(

)

•Approved Pro

First State Ponds and Fountains

4.73(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

101 local quotes requested

Our mission is to be a provider that brings back the personal touch with our customers. We will build a relationship that will last a lifetime after you see our quality work. As a locally owned and operated business we feel invested in our clients and constantly strive for customer satisfaction. We won't leave until the job is done right! Call or click to schedule an estimate today!

"I recently had the pleasure of working with Erik from First State Ponds, and I can't recommend him enough. Erik traveled all the way from Delaware to Maryland to service my pond, which was having persistent issues with murky water. Before connecting with Erik, I had already been advised by another company to purchase a specific filter and pump. Thankfully, I found First State Ponds just in time. Erik took the time to explain that while the recommended filter might clear my water, it would require constant maintenance. He suggested a different filter and a stronger pump, but he was also willing to install the one I had already purchased if I preferred. After some consideration, I decided to take his advice and returned the original filter to have him install his recommended system. After struggling with murky water all summer, l admit, I was a bit skeptical. I wasn't sure that anything would truly work. But Erik's recommendation exceeded even his own predictions. Within just two days, the water was crystal clear! I didn't really think that was possible. There were a few challenges during installation and I admit this was 100% due to a few things I had set up prior to meeting Erik. But he handled them seamlessly, troubleshooting as needed. For the issues that couldn't be addressed that day, Erik provided me with helpful suggestions on how to finish the job myself. While I initially found the price a little high, after seeing the fantastic results, answering my many questions (including a few the following day), and delivering on everything he promised, I can confidently say he earned every cent. If you're looking for quality service, prompt responses, and impressive results, I highly recommend First State Ponds. Erik and his team are truly top-notch."

Q S on September 2025

"I recently had the pleasure of working with Erik from First State Ponds, and I can't recommend him enough. Erik traveled all the way from Delaware to Maryland to service my pond, which was having persistent issues with murky water. Before connecting with Erik, I had already been advised by another company to purchase a specific filter and pump. Thankfully, I found First State Ponds just in time. Erik took the time to explain that while the recommended filter might clear my water, it would require constant maintenance. He suggested a different filter and a stronger pump, but he was also willing to install the one I had already purchased if I preferred. After some consideration, I decided to take his advice and returned the original filter to have him install his recommended system. After struggling with murky water all summer, l admit, I was a bit skeptical. I wasn't sure that anything would truly work. But Erik's recommendation exceeded even his own predictions. Within just two days, the water was crystal clear! I didn't really think that was possible. There were a few challenges during installation and I admit this was 100% due to a few things I had set up prior to meeting Erik. But he handled them seamlessly, troubleshooting as needed. For the issues that couldn't be addressed that day, Erik provided me with helpful suggestions on how to finish the job myself. While I initially found the price a little high, after seeing the fantastic results, answering my many questions (including a few the following day), and delivering on everything he promised, I can confidently say he earned every cent. If you're looking for quality service, prompt responses, and impressive results, I highly recommend First State Ponds. Erik and his team are truly top-notch."

Q S on September 2025