Spanning from the ancient civilizations of Rome to the monarchies of France and the glamorous hotels of modern day Las Vegas, water fountains have enjoyed a popularity that transcends all boundaries of time and place. In fact, the highlight of any celebrated garden is almost always its water feature. Today, fountains are becoming increasingly accessible to individual homes and offices. With advancements in technology and a wider variety of materials and styles to choose from, you can now find a fountain to suit any given space.Â
- But how do you know what type of fountain will be best suited for you?Â
- What should you keep in mind before choosing a fountain and how can you make an informed decision?
 We know you are asking yourself these questions and more, and we have all the answers.
Contrary to popular belief, fountains are fairly low maintenance and easy to care for. All you really need to do is make sure that your fountain has enough water to circulate through its system. If you allow your fountain to operate for an extended period of time without enough water, this will cause your fountain’s pump to malfunction and eventually break down. Check your fountain’s basin from time to time to see whether its water level is sufficiently high. If it seems to be running low, add more water. Another way to tell whether or not your fountain has enough water is to listen to it. If it’s making spurting noises instead of the smooth rippling or flowing that you’re used to, your pump is probably struggling to make do with an insufficient amount of water. Your fountain will also benefit from an occasional wipe down. If you look carefully at the surface of your fountain’s basin, you should notice dust and other debris floating on its surface. This is because the negative ions from your fountain’s water source attract these particles from the air. To keep your fountain sparkling clean, simply unplug it, drain it, and wipe down its surface with a clean, damp cloth. Make sure to wipe your pump as well, as it usually gathers the most debris.
Your fountain’s noise level will depend on its size and type. A large wall fountain can make a quiet roar like a miniature waterfall while a small, desktop fountain will make a quiet, continuous burble and a tiered garden fountain will make a cascading sound that increases with size. If you have specific concerns regarding your fountain’s noise level, be sure to discuss it with a fountain specialist. At Fountains.com, our experts provide in-depth, one-on-one consultations to ensure that all of our customers find the fountain of their dreams.
Most fountains use around the same amount of energy as a small lamp, and you should not notice any significant increase in your electricity bill after installing your fountain. In addition, some outdoor fountains can be constructed to run on solar power. This means that as long as they are placed in areas with sufficient sunlight, they will not require any other energy source.
Commonly found in outdoor fountains, algae can become unsightly if left to multiply in your fountain. Fortunately, they are also easy to control. You can not only eradicate, but also prevent future algae growth by simply adding an algaecide to your fountain once a week.
A fountain that is well maintained and crafted from quality materials will last for years. Regardless of whether they are meant to be placed indoors or outdoors, fountains are meant to bring lasting value- think about the most celebrated fountains in the world. Some of them have lasted for decades while others have been around for centuries. Of course, the key to your fountain’s longevity is your willingness to care for its needs. In addition to regularly adding water to your fountain and wiping it down, you can also extend its lifespan by occasionally taking apart your fountain’s pump to wipe its individual components.
If you’ve been warned that cold weather can cause outdoor fountains to crack or become damaged, chances are that these fountains were either poorly crafted or poorly maintained. A reputable company will use high quality materials, such as bronze, to create fountains that can withstand almost any type of adverse weather. In addition, such companies will provide adequate advice on how outdoor fountains should be drained and covered when not in use.
Today, indoor fountains are available in a variety of different sizes and styles. Your preferences and specifications can help you narrow down which fountain is right for your home, office, or other indoor space. If you’re hoping to make to make a dramatic statement, an ornate tiered fountain in a foyer is probably exactly what you’re looking for. Not only will it create a stunning first impression of your home for all who enter it, but it will also help you to leave the day’s stress behind when you return home. Small, table-top fountains can create a relaxing environment for those looking to install a fountain in a home office or study. Additionally, they do not require much space and make a quiet rippling that can add a serene ambiance. Fountains can be especially beneficial in the bedroom for individuals who experience insomnia or have trouble falling into a deep sleep. The sound of flowing water has been scientifically proven as the most peaceful sort of white noise, and a fountain can provide an unending source. In addition, such fountains come in a variety of different styles and can blend into your bedroom’s existing interior design.
Sources:Â Valglicia, Sal. 10 Ways to Add Privacy to Your Yard. This Old House Magazine.
