les wrote:
I am considering installing a water feature (fountain) in my garden.
My concern is how to stop it freezing up in winter. Will the movement
of the water be sufficient or is it necessary to add some non-toxic
additive?
I would be interested to know how other posters overcome this
problem. I am told that vodka acts as a non-toxic anti-freeze. If so,
what would be an appropriate mix of vodka/water for temperatures down
to say -5C? I would hate to have drunken birds flying around the
garden!
Any advice would be appreciated.

Les

Hi Les. It depends where you live, and your normal winter temps. I'm on the
outskits of London, and my garden is surrounded by a 6ft wall, so is well
protected. My water feature runs all year without freezing. (
http://www.boypete.dsl.pipex.com/otters/otters.htm )
I imagine you'd need a good dollop of vodka to lower the freezing point, and
it isn't just birds you need to consider. Numerous nocturnal animals will
call round for a wee dram!
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ßôyþëtë