FORMAL SPILLWAYS
Q. Do I have to winterize my Colorfalls?
A. Where winters are harsh, winterizing is a good idea. Remove the pump, drain and store in a cool, dry place out of the weather. Lower the water level in the basin so you can blow or vacuum out the pipe and Colorfalls. Replace and close the valve so water can't seep back into the pipe.
Q. How do I keep the water in my Colorfalls clean?
A. Add Atlantic's colorfalls and fountain treatment (CFFT800).
Q. My colorfalls is leaking, what should I do?
A. First make sure you're not losing water to drips down the back wall, splash, evaporation or wind blowing the sheet of water out of the basin. Ensure that the unit is correctly installed and level both front-to-back and side-to-side. Next, check all fittings and connections outside the basin. Finally, inspect the back of the Color Changing Colorfalls to make sure all the retaining screws are tight. If the unit still appears to be leaking please contact Technical Support.
Q. The water coming out of my waterfall is splitting.
A. On older, single color Original Colorfalls models check that the upper and lower lips have not separated. If you suspect this may have happened, please contact Technical Support. On any Colorfalls, debris may have accumulated inside the spout. Clear the debris with a Colorfalls Brush, pipe cleaner or any thin wire. Color Changing Colorfalls can be opened from the back if necessary. Low flow can also cause uneven distribution of water. Remove and clean your filter and pump.
Q. My lightbar is different colors, what should I do?
A. Contact customer service.
Q. My lights are not changing color, what can I do?
A. Ensure that they are connected properly - the arrows on each plug should line up. Then re-synch your remote to the control module (see the instruction manual for details).
Q. Can more than one light be controlled by a single remote?
A. Yes. Verify that your Colorfalls has a 6 pin connector. You will need the appropriate number of 3-way, 6-wire splitters - one for up to 3 Colorfalls, two for up to 5 Colorfalls, three for up to 7, four for up to 9 Colorfalls, five for 10 linked Colorfalls. You will also need a single larger transformer to run up to 10 linked units, the SOLTRANS88. If your Colorfalls has a 2- or 4-pin connector, please contact Technical Support.
Q. How often do I need to add water to my basin?
A. As often as needed! The amount of water you will need to add will vary due to interior or exterior siting, sun, wind, temperature, humidity, even splash. Check the water level every few days to make sure that the pump is always fully submerged. You might wish to install an Autofill Kit AF1000, connected to a garden hose or sprinkler line, to automatically maintain the correct water level.
Q. How high can I install my Colorfalls?
A. Colorfalls and scuppers should be installed as high as they are wide. In other words, a 24" model should be installed 24" above the basin.
Q. Can I use a Colorfalls in my pond?
A. No. The amount of organic debris that builds up in ponds poses a constant risk of clogging the spout, so Colorfalls should not be used in ponds. If a decorative spill is required, our Stainless Steel Scuppers will pass organic debris more easily, but still require much more maintenance than a FilterFalls or open spillway.
Q. How can I clean the inside of the weir of my Colorfalls?
A. Colorfalls can be cleaned with the Colorfalls Brush CFBRUSH, pipe cleaner or any thin wire. Not recommended for use with Color Changing models.
Q. How much water do I need to achieve a solid sheet of water?
A. Colorfalls are designed to use 80 gallons per hour per inch of width. That is to say that a 12" unit needs 1000 gallons per hour. Color Changing Colorfalls are designed to use 100 gallons per hour per inch of width. That is to say that a 24"" unit needs 2400 gallons per hour.
Q. Why is my remote control not working?
A. Either the signal is blocked or the remote needs to be re-synchronized. If you have a silver control module, physically separate the unit from the transformer to minimize interference. Ensure the batteries are fresh and re-synch the remote as per the manual. If you are still having trouble, please contact Technical Support.
Q. How much weight can a Colorfalls support?
A. All Colorfall, Classic or Color-Changing, can support up to 40 pounds per linear foot.
PONDS
Q. What is a skimmer?
A. Skimmers draw the water off the surface of your pond, removing floating debris and promoting good gas exchange, for a cleaner, healthier pond that's easier to maintain. The skimmer can also house and protect submersible pumps, allowing for easier access for cleaning and upkeep. Skimmers can be fitted with various other types of filtration as well, but care must be taken that clogged or dirty filters cannot starve pumps of water, which would shorten pump life.
Q. How deep should my pond be?
A. Generally, ponds should be 2-3 feet deep, with plenty of shelves, planting pockets and fish caves. Always check local regulations for restrictions or permitting requirements first, and always call 811, to have utilities marked out, before you dig.
Q. What is the difference between a FastFalls and a FilterFalls?
A. FastFalls are water diffusers used in pond-free applications where filtration is unnecessary. They make it easy to start a leak-free waterfall. FilterFalls are biological filters ('biofalls') that are designed for pond applications. They, too, make it easy to start a leak-free waterfall but also provide space for various types of filter media, for both mechanical and biological filtration.
Q. How do I keep my fish from swimming into the skimmer?
A. We offer Gate Keepers, small brushes that block the opening of your skimmer, preventing fish from entering the skimmer.
Q. Why do Atlantic skimmers have brushes instead of filter pads?
A. Brushes perform much the same function as filter pads, trapping debris before it can enter the pump. Unlike pads, though, when the brushes get fully loaded with debris they part to allow water to pass around them and still supply the pump, unlike pads which block the flow and can starve the pump of water, leading to overheating and premature pump failure.
Q. How often do I need to clean my skimmer?
A. As often as necessary to keep it from becoming clogged. Begin by checking it on a weekly basis. It may need more attention in autumn when the leaves are falling.
Q. I live where winters are cold and my pond will ice over. How should I get my pond ready for winter?
A. If possible, place a net over your pond in the autumn to keep leaves out of the pond. When it gets cold but before it freezes over, remove the pump, drain it and store in a cool dry place out of the weather. Finally, set an aerator or airstone in the shallows to keep a hole free of ice all winter, so the fish will be able to breathe.
Q. Are the materials used for ponds safe for my fish?
A. Yes, all of our products are safe for fish and aquatic wildlife.
Q. How many gallons of water are in my pond?
A. You can easily estimate the volume of your pond in gallons with the formula: Avg. Width x Avg. Length x Avg. Depth x 7.5 gallons per cubic foot.
Q. What does "turnover" mean?
A. "Turnover" refers to the time it takes to circulate the total number of gallons of water in your pond. For ponds up to around 5000 gallons in volume, an ideal turnover rate is once an hour. In other words, to keep a 3000 gallon pond clear and clean you would want to circulate 3000 gallons an hour through the filtration system to achieve the proper amount of turnover.
POND-FREE
Q. I'm not sure what I would need to build a Pond-free waterfall. Are kits available?
A. Yes, Atlantic has 3 different sizes available. They include everything you need to create a beautiful waterfall in your backyard except the stone and the water.
Q. What are EcoBlox? Aren't they just milk crates with tops?
A. No, they are nothing like milk crates! Ecoblox are specially designed load-bearing 'water matrices' that create an underground reservoir for the water that feeds your waterfall. Capable of supporting up to 7 tons of distributed load, 96% of the space they occupy stores water, so reservoirs can be dug a lot smaller when they are used as a space filler instead of gravel, saving you time, labor and material costs.
Q. How many EcoBlox do I need for my Pond-free waterfall?
A. The number of EcoBlox depends on the volume of your waterfall - you'll need about three times as much stored water as you have running over the stream and falls. Please see our Let's Talk Pond-Free trifold.
Q. What is a Pump Vault?
A. The pump vault is the underground enclosure alongside the buried reservoir that houses and protects the pump and plumbing, providing easy access for maintenance.
Q. What is a FastFall?
A. FastFalls are water diffusers used in pond-free applications that attach to and stabilize the liner, making it easy to start a leak-free waterfall.
Q. How long does it take for FallsFoam to dry?
A. FallsFoam can be trim within an hour, and cures fully in 24 hours. FallsFoam is a moisture cure product, please note curing times may vary.
Q. I live in an area where the winters get cold. Do I need to winterize my pond-free waterfall?
A. It is a good idea to winterize your water feature when temperatures will stay below freezing for extended lengths of time. Remove the pump, drain and store it in a cool, dry place out of the weather. Where winters are not severe, there's no need to winterize.
Q. My rocks are all covered with slime. How can I clean up my stream and waterfall?
A. Sprinkling Atlantic's Eco-Clean will clean the attached organics of rocks and gravel. For a long term solution, you may wish to install a Triton Ionizer. The tiny amount of ionic copper that the Ionizer emits will keep the rocks and gravel of your water feature clean for 1-3 seasons before the electrodes need replacing.
Q. How long does it take for the RTV Silcone to dry?
A. RTV silicone should be tack free within an hour, and fully cured within 24 hours. RTV Silicone is a moisture cure product, please note curing times may vary.
FOUNTAINS
Q. Why should I install a fountain?
A. A fountain is the perfect choice for an easy, economical, do-it-yourself way to get into water features/water gardening.
Q. How much weight can the fountain basins support?
A. The internal butresses of the Fountain Basins allow them to support large loads as long as the weight is centered on them. The FB2400 can hold 200 lbs., the FB3200 400 lbs. and the FB4600 will support a whopping 1200 lbs. of distributed load.
Q. Can I use more than one decorative piece on a Fountain Basin?
A. Yes you can. Our FBKIT3, designed for use with the large FB4600 Basin, will allow you to operate up to 3 pieces using only one pump. However, you should ensure that all the water and splash is contained within the perimeter of your basin. For basins set in the ground, you can also add a liner 'skirt' pitched to return splash to the basin.
Q. Does Atlantic offer any ready-made fountain kits?
A. Yes, we offer a 16" Basalt Column kit, a 20" Pebble Pot kit, and an 18" Color Changing Vase kit. These kits include everything you need to create a beautiful fountain in your home, your yard, on your deck or patio, quickly and easily - just add water and plug it in!
Q. What does the ring that looks like a wagon wheel do?
A. The ECORISE20 is a molded riser that distributes the weight of heavy fountain pieces across the top of ECOBLOX reservoir systems, landing the load on at least three vertical supports within the ECOBLOX matrices. The ECORISE20 features molded channels to make it easy to plumb and install lighting into any decorative piece without fear of crushing or pinching, allowing even the heaviest boulder or columns to be easily set, moved and adjusted, even while running!
Q. What size pump do I need for my fountain?
A. As a general rule, multiply the height of the piece (In feet) by 250 and look for a pump that's rated at that number of gallons per hour. So, a 3' tall basalt column would take an MD750 pump. *Please note: When sizing a pump, please take plumbing sizes and openings into account.
PUMPS
Q. How do I clean my TidalWave2 pump?
A. First, remove the intake screen. Then remove the screws holding the volute in place. Next turn the volute one quarter turn counter-clockwise and pull. Then pull out the impeller assembly. Wipe down the assembly with vinegar.
Q. Are replacement parts available for my pump?
A. Yes, replacement parts are available for most of our pumps. Please contact Technical Support with the model or serial number of your pump for assistance.
Q. What size pump do I need?
A. That depends on your water feature! You'll need to know your desired flow and the total resistance caused by the height of your feature and your plumbing (the Total Dynamic Head). Please see the calculators in our "Let's Talk Pumps" Tri-fold for more information.
Q. What is total dynamic head?
A. Total Dynamic Head (TDH) is a measurement in feet of head of the total work a pump has to do. It's expressed as the sum of the height of the feature, the Vertical Head, plus the additional work caused by friction inside the pipe and fittings, the Friction Head. Please see the calculators in our "Let's Talk Pumps" Tri-fold for more information.
Q. Why are there so many pumps to choose from?
A. One size does not fit all. Different pumps work best at different heads and flows, and each has its own unique Best Efficiency Range. We provide multiple different series, each with its own strength, that together span a broad range of both flow and head requirements. This way we can tackle any job with a pump that will be working within its specific optimal range, for best performance and longevity.
Q. What is the warranty on your pumps?
A. • FP series- 1-year limited
• MD series- 5-year limited
• TW2, SH, PAF, A & L series- 2-year limited
• TT series-3-year limited
Q. Are your pumps adjustable?
A. The only pumps that have built-in adjustment capability are the FP-Series Fountain Pumps. However, you can always plumb a valve in-line to reduce the flow - just be sure that the pump stays within its Recommended Operating Range.
Q. How much electricity does my pump use?
A. The wattage for your pump is listed on the box, in the instructions and in the Catalog. The daily cost to run your pump is: Watts x hours per day of operation / 1000, multiplied by your local kWH rate. The monthly cost is figured by multiplying the 720 hours in a month divided by 1000: Watts x .72 x $/kWh
Q. My pump keeps turning off, what is the problem?
A. Most likely, your pump is overheating due to low water flow or low water level. Make sure the pump is always fully submerged and stays that way. Also make sure that the intake is clear and not clogged by debris."
Q. It gets very cold around here in the winter. How should I store my pump?
A. Mag drives and hybrids should be removed, drained, cleaned and stored in a cool dry place. Direct drive and axial flow pumps should be stored above freezing in a bucket with 6 inches of water in order to keep the seals moist.
LIGHTING
Q. Are there replacement bulbs for my lights?
A. It depends on which lights you have. The AWG LED Lights, SOL Series solid brass Spotlights, Spout Lights and Hardscape Lights have LED diodes ('bulbs') that can be replaced. The SOL Light Rings and AWGFT2 Fountain Lights do not.
Q. Why won't the lights change colors?
A. It may be the remote control. Make sure that the protective film covering the controls has been removed, that the remote has fresh batteries and that the control module and the transformer are not in close proximity to each other, as the transformer can sometimes interfere with the remote commands. Then, re-synch the remote following the instructions, here.
Q. Are Atlantic's lights submersible?
A. Almost all Atlantic's lights are 100% submersible, incuding the AWG Pond Lights, the two sizes of SOL Spotlights, the SOL Ring Lights and the Spout Light. The only exceptions are the Hardscape Lights, which are weather resistant.
Q. How many Color Changing lights can I run on one control module?
A. The control module can handle up to 80 watts. Add up the wattage of the light fixtures that you intend to use, staying below 80 watts, and purchase the 88 Watt transformer SOLTRANS88 and the appropriate number of Splitters for your project. We also offer Light Kits, Wiring Kits and Extensions that you may find helpful. Please see the Catalog under Lighting for more options.
Q. Why doesn't my remote control work?
A. Make sure that the protective film covering the controls has been removed, that the remote has fresh batteries and that the control module and the transformer are not in close proximity to each other, as the transformer can sometimes interfere with the remote commands. Then, re-synch the remote following the instructions, here.*
Q. Can I put my lights on a timer?
A. Yes.
Q. I have existing landscape lighting can I use the same transformer?
A. Yes, for the SOL Warm White LED Lights. Simply cut off the quick connect plug that normally attaches to the transformer, strip the wire and splice into your existing line with quality, waterproof wire nuts."
Q. How do I re-synch my remote control?
A. Follow the synchronization procedures on pages 6 & 7 in your manual, available here*.
Q. Why aren't my lights are not responding to the remote control?
A. It may be the remote control. Make sure that the protective film covering the controls has been removed, that the remote has fresh batteries and that the control module and the transformer are not in close proximity to each other, as the transformer can sometimes interfere with the remote commands. Then, re-synch the remote following the instructions, here.
TREATMENTS
Q. Is there a water treatment available for my Colorfalls or fountain?
A. Yes, we offer the Atlantic Colorfalls & Fountain Treatment CFFT800 to help keep your water clear and fresh. Follow the dosage directions on the label.
Q. What is beneficial bacteria?
A. Beneficial bacteria, like our Bio-Max, help keep your water feature balanced, clean and clear, by utilizing oxygen in the water to quickly break down organic wastes, nitrates and ammonia.
Q. What is flocculent?
A. A flocculant, like our Quick Clear, binds very small, lightweight particles suspended in the water column together so they drop to the bottom, making it easier to remove them and clearing the water.
Q. I am having a party in 2 days and my pond isn't clear what can I do?
A. Atlantic's Eco-Solv9 and Quick Clear should be used in combination. Proper application strictly following directions will quickly eliminate organics and floating debris.
Q. I have city water and want fish and plants do I need to do anything to the water?
A. Yes, Atlantic's Re-Vive removes the chlorine and Chloramines from the water. It also eases the stress on fish during water changes.
Q. Why do I need bacteria in my pond?
A. Bacteria, like Bio-Max+, are essential to break down the organic matter, toxic ammonia and nitrites in your pond that would otherwise negatively impact pond health. The end products of bacterial decomposition are non-toxic compounds and minerals that are easily metabolized and removed by plants, keeping your ecosystem well-balanced, clean and clear.
Q. How can I remove the goop that is stuck to my rocks in the stream and waterfall?
A. Apply a treatment of Eco-Klean. Turn off the pump, let the flow cease, then sprinkle the recommended dose right on the affected areas. The fast dissolving granules release pure oxygen, quickly lifting attached organics off your rocks.
IONIZER
Q. Do I really have to monitor copper levels?
A. YES. Levels higher than 0.01-0.03ppm are not only not necessary, they will lead to premature replacement of the electrodes, could stain light colored surfaces green or blue and may even adversely affect plants and fish. Maintenance of the proper copper concentration is easy with Atlanticís Copper Test Kits, provided with your Ionizer; replacement kits are available at most dealers or contact us. CLICK FOR EMAIL
Q. What if I don't have fish or plants in my water feature? Can I just leave the Ionizer at 100%?
A. Even if nothing is living or growing in your water feature, excessive levels of copper are not needed and may even cause problems. Keeping the control panel at 100% unnecessarily will lead to premature replacement of the electrodes and could stain light colored surfaces green or blue.
Q. Will I still need to use treatments?
A. You may need to continue the use of treatments for up to several weeks while the Ionizer is building up to the effective dosage level of 0.01 parts per million (0.01ppm), after which treatments can be discontinued.
Q. Do I still need to use bacteria?
A. Yes. Regular applications of beneficial bacteria to break down organic waste are recommended and will still be effective.
Q. How long does it take for the Ionizer to work?
A. The Ionizer will treat up to 2500 gallons in a week, depending on circulation and the amount of organic debris; a 10000 gallon pond will require at least 4 weeks to reach the effective ionization level of 0.01 parts per million. Good circulation of the ions is necessary for good control, and the more organics in the pond, the longer it will take to control them.
Q. What level should I set the Ionizer at?
A. That depends on the condition of the water feature on startup. Under optimal conditions, when the feature is new or free of any organic debris and thereís good circulation, you may be able to keep the Ionizer at a low setting while the ions build up to the recommended level of 0.01ppm. If rapid control of rampant growth is necessary, start the Ionizer at its highest setting of 100% and carefully monitor the copper level weekly, lowering it as control is achieved to never exceed the range of 0.01-0.03ppm.
Q. Why does the control panel turn itself down?
A. The control panel continually monitors the micro-current passing through the water between the copper electrodes. If there isn’t enough electrolyte in the water, the control panel will automatically adjust itself down to the maximum level that the conductivity of the water will allow. You can easily increase the conductivity of the water by adding Sea Salt or Pond Salt. Adding 1 cup/8 ounces of salt per 100 gallons of pond water will usually allow the unit to be turned up. Do not use any salt except Sea or Pond Salt, as salts for de-icing and even table salt may contain additives, like iodine, that can injure fish or plants. Do not exceed a total concentration of 2 cups/16 ounces/1 pound of salt per 100 gallons of pond water.
Q. My Ionizer won’t go all the way up to 100%. What should I do?
A. Increase the conductivity of the water by adding Sea Salt or Pond Salt. Adding 1 cup/8 ounces of salt per 100 gallons of pond water will usually allow the unit to be turned up. Do not use any salt except Sea or Pond Salt, as salts for de-icing and even table salt may contain additives, like iodine, that can injure fish or plants. Do not exceed a total concentration of 2 cups/1 pound/100 gallons of salt.
Q. Will Sea Salt hurt my fish or plants?
A. Salt is generally harmless in concentrations under 2 cups/16 ounces/1 pound per 100 gallons, although some plants, like certain varieties of water lilies, prefer lower concentrations. Do not exceed 1 pound per 100 gallons; greater amounts will not make the Ionizer work better anyway.
Q. How long will the copper bars last?
A. That depends on the size of the body of water, the effective circulation rate and power level the control panel is set to. Typically, at the lowest setting, just enough to maintain the ideal concentration of copper at 0.01ppm, the electrodes will last 1-3 seasons.
Q. How long is the cord?
A. The power cord from the transformer to the control unit is 15 feet long; from the control unit to the electrodes, another 15 feet, for a total length of 30 feet stretched out. If you need additional distance, you have the option of adding a SOLWEXT 20' extension cord to either side (but not both), for a total of 50 feet of length without needing a larger transformer.
RAIN HARVESTING
Click Here to view Rain Harvesting FAQs.