By: Joe Holz, Director of Sales | April 13, 2023
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Adding a decorative, floating fountain to your backyard pond can be a great way to enhance the beauty of your outdoor space. Before you start planning the installation, however, there are several important factors to consider. The size of your pond, where power is located, what voltage and phases are available, and routine maintenance should be planned for before investing in a floating fountain. In this article, we’ll dig a little deeper into some of the key components you should think about before adding a fountain to your backyard pond.

Size of the Pond

The size of your pond plays a major role in determining the size of the fountain you can add. If your pond is small, a large fountain may overpower the space and make it look cluttered. On the other hand, a small fountain may not have much of a visual impact on a large pond. Floating fountains are offered in varying sizes, most often measured in horsepower (HP). From there, each size fountain will display certain sized patterns. Small HP fountains will have smaller displays, and large HP fountains will have larger displays. If a pond is too small for the fountain, your display could send water too wide and begin to empty the water from the pond. So, it’s important to carefully consider the size of your pond before choosing a fountain.

Power Source

Fountains require a power source to operate, so you need to make sure that there is an electrical outlet nearby. If there isn’t one, you may need to hire an electrician to install one. Additionally, it’s important to ensure you have the proper voltage and phase and that the power source is properly grounded to prevent any electrical hazards. Fountains are offered with varying lengths of power cords, sometimes up to 500 ft. and can be trenched if needed. When considering how long your power cord needs to be, remember to add in the length that will be underwater. It’s always good idea to consult with an electrician when thinking through your electrical needs.

Type of Fountain

There are many types of fountains available, each with its own unique features and benefits. Some fountains shoot water high into the air, while others have a gentler flow. You should consider the style of your backyard and the type of fountain that would complement it best.

Maintenance

Fountains require regular maintenance to keep them functioning properly and operating for years to come. This includes checking the unit for clogs, replacing the sacrificial anode, checking the power cord for damage, and periodically (every 3 years) changing the oil and seal. Make sure the fountain is unplugged and the main power cord is out of the water prior to performing any maintenance. Creating a cleaning and inspection schedule (like this one) is a good way to keep your fountain in the best shape for many years.

Cost

Fountains can vary greatly in price and operational cost, depending on their size, style, and features. It’s important to set a budget before beginning your search for a fountain. This will help ensure that you can afford the one you want.

Adding a fountain to your pond can be a beautiful addition to your outdoor space, however, it’s a good idea to spend time researching and planning upfront. Learning about the true size and depth of your pond, determining the distance to power, and deciding what you want to spend on the fountain and monthly electrical costs are all things to consider before purchasing. Knowing these, and the other items noted in the article, will ensure that you make the right choice for your pond and budget.