New natural stone is an investment in lasting beauty that will give many years of wear. The following are a few tips on how to properly care for natural stone and help extend its life and beauty. By following some simple precautions such as properly sealing the Hearthfall stone and using the correct cleaning products and methods, you will ensure a lifetime of use from natural stone.

Natural stone has been formed over millions of years, but improper care can ruin nature's beauty. Although we usually think of stone as "hard," it is a porous material that can absorb spills and stains if it is left untreated. Sealing stone with a quality sealer will prevent most spills from damaging it. A wide variety of sealers are available, so be sure to select one for your specific Hearthfall natural stone type.

Cleaning Your Hearthfall
Once sealed properly, stone is protected against everyday dirt and spills. Proper cleaning will help the sealer last longer and keep the Hearthfall protected without damaging the stone's natural beauty. Keeping the stone free of dust and dry, sandy soil will minimize the scratches and wear-patterns that can develop from everyday use of some natural stone. Dust the Hearthfall surface regularly to remove loose soil and dust.

Clean natural stone on a regular basis with warm water and a clean, non-abrasive cloth or sponge. Use a neutral cleaner, stone soap (available at hardware stores or from your stone dealer) or a mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. Do not use general purpose cleaners or you may damage the stone or the sealer. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar, bleach, ammonia or cleansers that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, as these may etch the stone surface and damage the polish. Do not use scouring powders or creams, abrasive or alkaline cleaners. These products will scratch the surface. Rinse the surface thoroughly after cleaning.

Maintaining the Pump and Tank
You must keep the water level in the tank filled to within one half inch below the screen. Low water levels will seriously damage pump and void warranty. The standard size unit takes approximately five gallons to fill the tank. It should constantly have that much water to run at its best. Once you've filled your unit, add a splash of distilled water each day to replace the loss from evaporation. More water may be needed for units in hot, dry climates.

Water Care
Distilled water is recommended for use in your Hearthfall. Water treatments are also recommended to keep your Hearthfall tank and water cleaner longer between cleanings. Without distilled water and water treatments, mineral deposits and algae can form in the tank and inside the pump.

It is imperative that you use distilled water in your Hearthfall. Most tap water—well water, spring water and city water—contains minerals, which will build up over time. And when the tap water evaporates the minerals leave an unsightly white deposit. After months and years of operation with tap water, your Hearthfall will develop water spots and a calcium ring that may be difficult to remove. Please use only distilled water to prevent this from the beginning