Outdoor fountains are valuable for more reasons than one. First, they add an element of peace and tranquility to your outdoor space. But beyond the psychological, these structures also offer numerous tangible advantages. They breathe life into the environment, improve aesthetics, and make your property more beautiful and valuable.

It’s clear that outdoor fountains offer many benefits. But have you ever wondered how these fancy water features work?

This article explains everything you need to know about how outdoor fountains work. It covers the essential components, maintenance tips, how to make your fountain more energy-efficient, and more.

The Basic Components of an Outdoor Fountain

One core feature of all types of outdoor fountains is water circulation. Before, outdoor fountains relied on gravity and reservoirs to run water from a higher channel down through cleverly designed spouts, bowls, and tiers. 

However, newer outdoor fountains use water pumps, usually electrical or solar, to draw water from the reservoir and push it toward and through the tubing. 

Let's take a look at these components and how they work together to create that mesmerizing charm we experience when we look at outdoor fountains.

1. Reservoir

The water reservoir is used to store the water that is pumped into the tubing of the outdoor fountain. A reservoir is a very important part of how an outdoor fountain works because without it, you would need to rely on an external water source. 

Usually, the reservoir could be a large basin hidden under the water fountain or a smaller one integrated into it.

Outdoor water fountains can be directly plugged into your main water supply. However, these types of fountains are generally more costly and harder to install. Some are also not connected to any water. Instead, they are manually filled with a hose. You need to check these reservoirs every once in a while to make sure there’s enough water.

The reservoir ensures a steady supply of water, which allows the fountain to operate. Most of the time, it also houses the water pump.

2. Water Pump

Located inside the reservoir, near the reservoir, or in a separate compartment, the pump serves as the powerhouse of the outdoor fountain. Water pumps can be submersible or inline.

Submersible pumps operate underwater, while inline pumps are located outside the water, usually in a pump housing. One thing to note about the latter is that it’s usually used for larger fountains that require more powerful water flow, 

When selecting a water pump, you’ll need to factor in the size and design of the fountain, the flow rate of the pump (how much water it can pump per hour), and the head height (how high it can push the water). 

Water pumps work by drawing water from the reservoir and pushing it up through the tubing to the fountainhead. A pump that is too weak may not be able to push the water high enough. At the same time, a pump that’s too powerful can cause the water to overflow or splash excessively. 

3. Fountain Head

This is where the water comes out from. The design of the fountainhead determines how the water flows and the sounds it makes. It can be a gentle bubble, a cascading waterfall, or a dramatic spray.

4. Piping and Tubing

These are used for transporting water from the pump to the fountain’s water features. They are usually hidden within the fountain’s structure and made of durable materials that can withstand exposure to the elements. Their mission is to ensure that water flows smoothly and reaches the top of the fountain.

5. Water Features

This refers to the part of the fountain where the water flows. They include spouts, bowls, and jets, and are usually used to influence the sound and aesthetic of the fountain.

How an Outdoor Fountain Works

When powered on, the pump draws water from the reservoir and pushes it up through the tubing to the fountainhead. When it reaches the top, the water falls down the water features and back into the basin, where the cycle is repeated.

How is an Outdoor Fountain Powered?

There are two ways to power an outdoor fountain: an electric pump or a solar pump. Your budget, preferences, and even your location can help you determine how you want your outdoor fountain to be powered.

Electric Pumps

Just like the name implies, electric pumps use electricity to draw water from the reservoir. They are usually more reliable, cheaper, and more suitable for larger fountains that require steady water flow.

However, electric pumps can be messy because of the cables needed to reach the power outlet. Also, the need for a power outlet can limit where you can place your fountain. 

Solar Pumps

Though not as powerful as electric pumps, solar-powered pumps are becoming the rave of the moment. They power an outdoor fountain by drawing power from solar panels that absorb sunlight.

Solar pumps are ideal for smaller fountains and help save money on power bills. They are also easier to set up, less messy because you don’t need long cables, and eco-friendly. That said, solar pumps are more expensive and not as powerful as their electric counterparts.

How To Make Your Outdoor Fountain Energy-Efficient

If you want to minimize your carbon footprint and make the earth smile, check out these tips for a greener lifestyle:

• Choose electric pumps that are energy-saving and require less electricity.
• Better yet, opt for solar-powered pumps that require only the sun as a power source.
• Use a timer that only comes on when you want your pump to draw water.
• Choose a pump that matches your fountain size and type to avoid wasting energy.
• Clean and maintain your fountain and pump to ensure smooth operations.

How to Maintain Outdoor Fountains to Ensure They Work

If you want your outdoor fountain to stand the test of time, you should consider the following tips.

Regular Cleaning

Clean your basin every one to three months. This will help prolong the lifespan of your reservoir. You should also clean the pump at least once every season. This will help you get rid of debris and ensure smooth operations. Your water features should also be cleaned regularly.

Winterization

During colder times, freezing temperatures can damage your pump. To prevent this, you need to drain the water from the fountain and take out the pump. For more information on winterization, check out our guide on how to winterize an outdoor fountain.

Constant Monitoring

Always inspect your outdoor fountain and reservoir for signs of wear and tear, as well as debris that can clog or enter the pump. To reduce debris and dirt, try wrapping a thin protective screen around the pump.

Frequently Asked Questions About How Outdoor Fountains Work

Can I Use Chemicals in My Outdoor Fountain?

It’s not advisable to use chemicals in your outdoor fountain. While chemicals (like chlorine) might be good for safeguarding a pool, they can damage the finish of your fountain.

That said, you can use anti-algaecide to prevent algae growth. Just ensure you select something safe for people, animals, and the environment.

How Long Does an Outdoor Fountain Pump Last?

An outdoor fountain pump can last more than 3 years. However, its specific lifespan will depend on how well it is maintained.

Can I Leave My Outdoor Fountain Running 24/7?

Your outdoor fountain is better off when you leave it running. For one, since there won’t be any stagnant water, the risk of being invaded by pests like mosquitoes is reduced. Also, when you leave your fountain running, bacteria cannot grow inside it.

How Much Electricity Does an Outdoor Fountain Use Per Hour?

This will depend on the size of the pump, the flow rate, operating hours, and the presence of any additional water features. But generally, fountains can use between 65 - 450 watts of electricity every hour.

Conclusion

Understanding how an outdoor fountain works can help you choose the right outdoor fountain for your property. From the basics of an outdoor fountain to the types of pumps that power one, knowing what to look for can guide you toward making the right choice.

Whether you’re a sucker for animal-themed fountains, you admire the simplicity of a Buddha-themed fountain, or you’re drawn to the calming ambiance of a bubbling outdoor fountain, LuxenHome offers a range of options to suit your needs.

Now that you know how an outdoor fountain works, check out our guide on what to consider before having an outdoor fountain installed.