What You Need To Know About Outdoor Fountains

Installing a fountain outdoors can turn a plain and boring outdoor area into a relaxing and inviting space. Choosing a fountain to match up to the landscaping décor of your outdoor spaces involves a blend of practicality and personal preference. When you know about the following factors about fountains for outdoor areas, it can assist you when it comes to deciding on the fountain type best suited for your particular project.

– Power Source

Outdoor fountains are associated with different power options. The main types include solar-powered or hardwired. The hardwired fountain uses an electrically powered source in order to function. In the majority of regions, a licensed and certified electrician must be used to install a fountain that is hardwired since this is regarded as an add on to the electrical grid of a home.

Outdoor fountains that are solar-powered have become a popular choice since they do not involve the need for hardwiring to the electrical supply of the home. Solar panels used for these fountains provide sufficient power to ensure the pump functions.

– Water Source

The majority of the outdoor fountains will connect to the house’s water supply. Outdoor fountains require a continuous water supply, so provided the water remains on, they will not run dry. There are a few fountains that are smaller that can be filled up with a hose, which does away with the requirement of a continuous and permanent connection.

In general, the fountains that you fill up using a water hose will feature a pump that will re-circulate the water continuously. These fountains need to be checked regularly to make sure they have enough water.

– Lighting Options

Your outdoor fountain should be something you can see and enjoy. If you spend a lot of time outdoors at night, lighting can emphasize your fountain. While some fountains come with lights, you can also consider placing lights around your fountain. If white lights seem to harsh when you are aiming for a serene and relaxed atmosphere, the colored lights will be a better option. Multi-colored lights offer a vibrant and fun element, while amber lights are soothing and calm.

– Location Is Important

Among the options you need to choose from, the location is among the more important. A large fountain should not be placed against a wall, to ensure you can access the fountain from all sides. Avoid placing a small fountain in an area where objects or greenery might block them. When your fountain needs a hardwired source of power or/and a consistent water supply, you need to think about your electrical connections and water lines.

– The Use Of Complementary Décor

You can choose to have an outdoor fountain that stands alone, or you can dress these areas up using complementary décor. Two common options include water features around your fountain or a path that leads to your fountain. Ground cover or flowers around the fountain will add aesthetic appeal to the stand-alone fountains.

– Cleaning And Maintenance

Every type of water fountain needs regular cleaning. When your fountain starts to develop layers of scummy algae it can detract from the beauty of this space. Certain fountains come with cleaning cycles which will help the fountain to stay cleaner for longer. Even with a cleaning-cycle, the fountain should still be drained and wiped down from time to time. The manufacturer of these products will provide guidelines on how to clean your fountain. Following the directions that they provide will ensure your fountain remains in good shape.

– Winter Care

If you live in a region where the temperature drops significantly over the months of winter, there are steps you will need to take to stop the fountain from cracking if the water starts to freeze. Your fountain should be completely drained before the initial deep freeze. If it is connected to your water supply, you need to install a shutoff valve which will allow you to turn the water off to stop the pipes from freezing. Some people even cover their fountains when the winter months set in. If your fountain features decorative accents or points, make sure that the ice weight and snow will not be placing pressure on these areas if you decide to cover it.

– Other Considerations

Find out from a building-code enforcement agency in your state or area if you will need a permit. It is also important to find out about any water restrictions that may apply to your area, as this may interfere with the amount of water you will be allowed to use for the fountain. Finding out how local ordinances, restrictions, and regulations might affect your use of a fountain can assist you with planning your purchase.