Everything You Need to Know About Water Fountains

 

Everything You Need to Know About Water Fountains

 

There are various benefits of adding floating fountains to the landscape. They not only bring beauty to the landscape but also nurture a healthier water environment. Water aeration initiates oxygen to the lower level of water, which is beneficial to the pond or lake's overall health and the water life eco-system itself. So, order floating pond fountains which are a perfect way to add visual appeal to the landscape.

 

 

 

In addition to their aesthetic qualities, water fountains also add a great deal of oxygen into the pond as the tiny droplets make contact with the air and fall back into the pond. But do pond fountains provide enough aeration? Similar to choosing an aeration system, determining if a fountain is correct for your pond will depend on the depth, shape, and size.

 

 

Many commercial and residential places are using fountains to improve the quality of water. Stagnant water has high levels of unwanted plant life, debris, and algae which contaminates the water by releasing various gases. A quality floating fountain generates high oxygen levels at the water surface and below that helps keep the water healthy and clean while reducing stagnant water. Here are the following factors to consider when buying floating pond fountains: 

 

 

 

6' Rule

 

If you have a more than 6 feet deep pond, a floating fountain will not offer enough aeration. Why? Proper aeration is achieved when the whole body of water circulates at the same time. Floating fountains draw water from the top of the water column only, so the deeper water than the 6-foot mark will remain untouched and oxygen-deprived.

 

 

 

Shape Significance 

 

Bends and curves add a dramatic appeal to your pond, but they also limit circulation. In ponds with a cove, island, or irregular shorelines, the oxygenated water formed by a water fountainmay not reach isolated parts of your pond. Like aeration systems, multiple pond fountains or a combination of a fountain and aeration system may be needed for uniquely shaped ponds. Bear in mind, you cannot over aerate a pond, but you can under aerating it – leading to more algae and weed growth in the areas that are not getting enough oxygen. 

 

 

 

Fountain Sizing

 

For ponds less than 6' deep and uniformly shaped, order floating pond fountains will be a good option for aerating the pond. Now you need to consider the spray pattern and horsepower. 

 

• Spray Pattern: The most effective shape for pond aeration is the classic v-shaped pattern. It does the job effectively and simply. The more decorative the spray pattern, the less likely it is to adequately aerate your pond because more energy is being spent creating the patterns than moving the water.

 

• Horsepower: When using a fountain for pond aeration purposes, a good rule is to go with a 1.5 HP motor per acre. If you are using the pond fountain for decoration purposes only, you can go with a 1 HP motor per acre instead.

 

 

 

Note:  It is recommended to remove fountains in the winter because there might be chances that they get damaged during icy conditions. Additionally, a fountain can get pretty expensive when you are operating it 24x7. An aeration system is generally designed to be used in the chilly winter season and is an affordable alternative as it has lower operating costs. Whichever method you select, don't go without aeration, because that could cost you more in the long run.  

 

 

 

Maintaining Your Outdoor Water Feature

 

Water fountainsare both functional and attractive. A water fountain will add sound, texture, and movement to your landscaping. In addition to increasing your property's aesthetic appeal, a carefully planned water feature will offer various health benefits. The sound of water moving with wildlife sounds will soothe your mind and soul.

 

An outdoor water fountain is exposed to the elements. You should perform three tasks regularly to maintain the function of your water feature. These three tasks are seasonal fountain cleaning, water replenishment, and water treatment. 

 

• Seasonal Fountain Cleaning 

 

Clean your fountain three to four times every year. Though treating the water will keep unwanted vegetation at bay, your fountain will still have some unwanted growth. Regular cleaning will help reduce unwanted vegetation from getting into the basin, fountain, and pump.

 

To clean your fountain, first, you need to disconnect the pump from the power source. Ensure the pump and filters are not clogged and are operating correctly. Remove algae with a bristle brush. 

 

• Water Replenishment

 

There are two primary reasons why maintaining the water level in your fountain is crucial. First, for reasons of aesthetics, and second, the pump must be completely submerged in water. If it is not, it will suck air and get damaged.

 

• Water Treatment 

 

To keep algae in check, add additives such as barley or an EPA-registered algaecide to the water. Alternatively, chemically treat your fountain water. Use pond water treatment products sparingly to prevent your fountain from accumulating mineral deposits.