Flowing water instantly creates a relaxing effect, which makes outdoor fountains irresistible. Well-designed fountains can elevate the mood of a space in ways never imagined. These features are great at creating a charming ambiance. 

Due to the many types available in the market, you should take your time to identify one that suits your specific needs and budget. To make your work easier, we’ve done our due diligence to uncover unmatched outdoor fountains you may love. 

Below, we’ll list the different types of outdoor fountains and their benefits, how to choose the right one and suggest installation and maintenance tips. 

List of Fountain Types

Cast Stone Fountains

Cast stone fountains are created by mixing stone aggregates, cement, sand, and water, turning them into durable and long-lasting water features. Cast stone fountain designs resemble naturally aged stones with a refined appearance.

Moreover, the exposure of cast stones to natural elements gives them a weathered look. So, they are the best choice if you’re attracted to vintage style.

Benefits:

• Weather resistance: Can withstand extreme weather conditions when appropriately maintained.
• Come in various patterns: You can find them in unique textures, sizes, shapes, and colors that suit your space.
• Relatively affordable: They cost less compared to natural stone fountains.
• Environmentally friendly: Cast stone is sustainable and easy to recycle.

Animal Fountains

If you're a sucker for animals, then animal fountains should top your list when hunting for an outdoor fountain. From fountains with well-curated dove features to ones with cougar claws, the choices are limitless.

You can also find animal-themed water features in different materials, sizes, and textures. They're ideal articles for any outdoor space, creating a unique, soft, and relaxing mood.

Benefits:

• Available in various forms: Whether you enjoy being around puppies, ducks, butterflies, or fish, you can have it all.
• Energy efficient: You can go for a solar-powered or electricity-powered fountain.
• Offers convenience: The different varieties allow you to choose what aligns well with your space.
• Reinforces the element of nature: It's one way to uplift your property's natural feel and appearance.

Angel Fountains 

Angle fountains are popular décor items with deeper symbolic interpretations. For spiritual believers, angel fountains can amplify not only their space but also their spirituality.

Angels portray a special kind of innocence and purity, which can serve more than the conventional function of a typical outdoor fountain. They can help create a clean and welcoming aura to any space, as angels are known for that.

Benefits:

• Offers spiritual serenity: Can induce spiritual and psychological effects, allowing for relaxation and self-introspection.
• Creates visual appeal: It’s an ideal way to amplify the look of your patio, garden, or front yard.
• Serve as an educational tool: Offers a unique way for visitors to appreciate cultural differences.

Urn Outdoor Fountains 

Urn fountains are decor vessels that capture the eyes of many. They are versatile and perfect for any space you can think of. 

Urn fountains are available in a wide range—from the largest Amphora fountain to the simplest design, there is always something to invoke charm and elegance in your space. You can also choose classic, rustic, or contemporary shapes to suit your specific aesthetic style.

Benefits:

• Efficient: Most urn fountains are self-sufficient with internal pumping mechanisms and water reservoirs.
• Ideal for any location: They can fit any spot, including small balconies and patios.
• Dual functionality: Small urn fountains can also serve as interior décor pieces.

Fountains with Pools 

Fountains with pools are also another particular category of fountains you don’t want to miss. While these fountains come in different designs, they all feature an above-ground pool. Some can be installed on the wall, while others are freestanding features.

Most fountains with pools attract many with their aesthetics and serve as significant landmarks. 

Benefits:

• Cultural significance: Most fountains with pools reflect the architectural evolution and style of their surroundings.
• Business attraction: They can amplify the appearance of commercial settings, potentially attracting more visitors and boosting overall revenue.
• Self-sufficient: Fountains with pools often serve as recreational spaces for relaxation, play, and enjoyment.

Asian Fountains 

Asian fountains come in a variety of styles. From Buddha to bamboo fountains, there is always something to look forward to.

Asian fountains are famous for their unique styles, historical significance, and tranquility. These characteristics are evident in notable fountains such as the Lotus Fountain in Bangkok, Thailand, Hawa Mahal Fountain in Jaipur, India, and the Musical Fountain in Sentosa Island, Singapore.

Installing an Asian water fountain in your space can transform the area significantly. The fountain can indirectly infuse your space with an Asian vibe, creating a healing effect through the flowing water.

Benefits:

• Transfers artistic and cultural values.
• Strengthens the surrounding cultural heritage.
• The intricate features and water displays depicted in Asian public fountains symbolize unity and friendship. 

Corner Fountains 

Corner fountains add a touch of creativity and liveliness to an empty outdoor space. These masterpieces are popular because they can fit in a specific corner in your backyard, front door, entryway, or other location.

Corner fountains come in varying sizes and can instantly transform a neglected space into an inviting spot for chilling with loved ones or guests. You are never limited to what you can install—from wall-mounted to floor fountains; there is always something for you.

Benefits:

• Space efficiency: Ideal for small and neglected spaces.
• Versatility: Come in various designs, simplifying the process of finding one that matches your preference.
• Aesthetic appeal: Amplifies the appearance of the area around the fountain. 

Statuary Fountains 

At the center of statuary fountains are statues and sculptures. The decorative water features make a great impression on their receptive environment. These fountains are designed to spruce up your environment and can stand out in courtyards, gardens, and other public spaces.

Statuary fountains vary by design, including the classical, modern, memorial, and animal fountains. Notable examples include the Bethesda Fountain and Neptune Fountain.

Benefits:

• Represent cultural and historical heritage: They reflect the values of a given community.
• Educational resource: The figure featured in the fountain offers educational insight.
• Raises property value: Most historical features are highly valued, which adds to the property’s worth. 

Wall Fountains 

Wall fountains add to the look and feel of your patio, garden, sunroom, or office area. Their impressive designs make it easy to install the masterpieces anywhere on a blank wall that needs face-lifting. It matters less whether your wall is big or small: you can always find the perfect size for the space.

Installing wall fountains creates a focal entry or exit point for the environment, which requires choosing the perfect fit for the space. You can always choose from the variety of options available, including traditional and contemporary freestanding fountains.

Benefits:

• Adds sophistication and tranquility to any wall: It can produce a calming atmosphere, improving overall mood. 
• Space efficiency: Suitable for small, medium, and large walls as they do not take up floor space.

Birdbath Water Fountains 

Birdbath water fountains are best suited for gardens or areas with lush greenery. You'll find them in different designs. Be it traditional, tiered, or hanging fountain, you can never run out of options.

You can install birdbath fountains in your patio or even backyards. The delightful addition to your space can significantly increase the value that guests attach to your premises.

Benefits:

• It can attract birds to your space: Their resemblance to a bird can draw different varieties of birds and insects to your space, creating an irresistible ambiance.
• Creates learning opportunity: Offers a chance to learn about different types of birds.
• They exist in a variety of designs: You can choose from different materials, colors, shapes, sizes, sculptures, and water flow mechanisms. 

Tier Fountains 

Tiered fountains are one of the most popular water features. You can use either a two, three, or even five tiers feature to create an effect that is difficult to overlook.

The design of most tier fountains takes into account the differences in space needs. Depending on individual preferences, they can complete the appearance of any environment, including public parks, gardens, courtyards, and other outdoor spaces.

Benefits:

• Reasonable prices: You can get a sophisticated design with just a few thousand dollars.
• Diverse designs: You can select from the various types of materials, placement choices, and water flow systems.

Ecosystem Pond

An ecosystem pond consists of a self-sustaining filtration system. Pond fountains maintain a healthy ecosystem by aerating the pond. The aeration occurs when the flowing water absorbs oxygen from the atmosphere. The oxygen then diffuses into the pond, and the circulation continues.

Benefits:

• Magnifies the pond: Creates a relaxing and welcoming ambiance for humans and wildlife.
• Increases water movement in the pond: The fountain supports the continuous flow of water by pulling water and releasing it into the air.
• Improves the quality of water: A continuous flow of water dissolves enough oxygen in the pond. 

Manmade Pond

A manmade pond is designed for purposes such as preserving the ecosystem, recreational activities, or industrial use. Manmade ponds vary in their functionality and value, with some designed for farming purposes and others for ecological studies.

Regardless of their purpose, various mechanisms support water flow in these ponds, including in-built systems, rainwater, flood water, and local streams and rivers.

Benefits:

• Recreational opportunities: It can serve as a fishing ground and a serene environment for boat riding, swimming, and relaxation.
• Increases property value: Well-maintained ponds appeal to visitors and potential clients. 
• Sustains the ecosystem: Provides an ideal habitat for wildlife.

Water Garden

A water garden is known as a heaven of aquatic plants. Most water gardens are not complete without floating plants. Each element combines to create a sophisticated and lovely aesthetic that appeals to people and wildlife.

The options for water gardens never ran out. From container water gardens to the above-ground gardens, there is always a style for the space you have in mind. 

Benefits:

• Good for water conservation: The garden allows for the collection and recycling of water.
• It creates a cooling effect: Ideal for relaxation and enjoyment.
• Suitable habitat for aquatic life: Each area of the garden, whether the bottom or surface, benefits a unique range of aquatic life. 

Streams

Stream fountains are designed for convenience and relaxation. Streams closely resemble natural streams, with a continuous water flow through and over the surrounding objects. 

Streams are only complete if they have native plants, stones, and gravel. Formal stream fountains, for instance, constitute defined geometric designs with precise edges and a balanced layout. 

Benefits:

• Improves the environment: It can improve air quality and regulate local temperature.
• Wildlife attraction: Provides water and habitat for a variety of wildlife.
• Promotes learning and leisure: Stream fountains, such as the Jet Stream Fountain, create a relaxing play space and an opportunity for learning about the ecosystem. 

Pondless Waterfalls 

Pondless waterfalls are fountains that pump water from an in-ground reservoir up through the waterfall spillway, flowing over the feature and disappearing in the reservoir, where it recirculates. This water recirculation is ideal for both home and commercial setups.

Pondless waterfalls can fit well in limited spaces as they exist in various design options.

Benefits:

• Eco-friendly: Water recirculation means the fountain needs just enough water to function efficiently.
• Cost-effective: Unlike traditional ponds, they are relatively easier to maintain as there is no need for aquatic life management.
• Provides a safe recreational space: They are safe for families with young children and pets since they don’t have stagnant water.

Tabletop Water Feature

Tabletop water features come in unique forms, materials, and styles. From classic to coastal and new-age design, you can find something that you love and matches the mood you desire to achieve in your space.

The decorative fountains are lightweight and perfect for surfaces like tables, desks, and other raised spaces.

Benefits:

• Uplifts mood: They produce a tranquil atmosphere for work or relaxation.
• Portable: Can be readily transferred from one spot to the next effortlessly.
• Lifts the aesthetics of the environment: They are not only a décor item for the table but also for the surrounding space.

Rain Curtain

A rain curtain is a fountain that features water flowing down in thin, vertical streams, creating a line of falling water resembling a waterfall. The fountain can be a great addition to a backyard, courtyard, or garden since it produces a dramatic effect that is hard to avoid.

Benefit:

• Noise reduction: The flowing water works perfectly at masking unnecessary noise, especially in a busy environment.
• Versatile: Comes in custom designs that can fit diverse spaces, including small and large areas.
• Creates the effect of rain: This can uplift the ambiance of the given location.

Scuppers 

Water scuppers allow for the efficient flow of water into the central area. The decorative elements can flow into a pool, pond, or other points like the wall, creating streams or waterfalls. 

Scuppers are convenient and easy to install. They are perfect for various settings, including resorts, public parks, and hotels. Various custom designs are available to match a given space's functional and aesthetic needs.

Benefits:

• Versatile: Suitable for diverse locations, including the roof.
• Durable: They can withstand external elements due to their robust design.

Laminar Jets

Laminar jets are fountainhead nozzles emitting continuous clear glass-like water jets. They function by a mechanism through which turbulent water enters the reservoir and is then forced through smaller pipes in a straight direction, with minimal disruptions, before being converted to a jet flow through the nozzle.

Generally, the smooth process of laminar jets makes them ideal for busy commercial settings or homes that require minimal noise disruptions.

Benefits:

• Water flows in parallel layers with slight mixing, if any. 
• Predictable flow behavior, which is ideal in precise fountains.
• Laminar flow is energy efficient as it experiences low friction loss.

Bubblers 

Bubblers are drinking fountains from which streams of water bubble upward. Outdoor bubbler fountains are enticing as they produce a soothing effect.

Bubblers exist in various forms and designs, making it convenient to find the perfect addition to your space.

Benefits:

• Versatile: It can serve as a drinking fountain, garden décor, or an aquarium feature.
• Aquarium bubblers support aquatic life: They promote oxygenation in the tank, sustaining the life of existing organisms. 

Choosing the Right Fountain for Your Space 

Deciding on the perfect fountain for your home or office requires more than just thinking about aesthetics. It takes deciding on the space available, material, functionality, durability, installation and maintenance costs, and external factors.

Space Constraints

Space is a significant consideration when thinking of installing a fountain. This is because a simple miscalculation could lead to substantial delays and even loss of money.

Evaluate where you intend to install the fountain and whether it has enough square space to accommodate the feature. Leave some space for the extras. 

Style and Aesthetic Considerations

 After determining the fountain's size, assess the surrounding environment. Take note of every element, including its texture, color, form, and the nature of greenery, if any. 

Unless you plan to transform the entire space, choose a fountain that complements the existing style and aesthetic in the environment. 

Whether you opt for an eclectic, classic, rustic, or modern feel, there is something that can work well with your premises. Fountains that amplify your space should top the list.

Material Considerations

Fountains are made of different materials, each with unique features. Choose one that matches your budget and space:

• Fiberglass fountains: They are the most affordable as they are lightweight, making them easy to move around.
• Ceramic fountains: Most come in attractive colors and designs you can choose from.
• Stone fountains are durable and timeless. They are the best choice if you want to create a natural look in your space.
• Concrete fountains: Are sturdy and can take various forms since they are easy to mold.
• Metal fountains: You can go for stainless steel material or copper if you’re looking for a modern feel.
• Brick fountains: Can create a natural and timeless effect.
• Resin fountains: They are lightweight and super-easy to maintain.

Budget Considerations

Budget plays a significant role in the quality and size of the fountain to buy.

If you’re tight on budget and only looking for something simple but elegant, you can select from the various tabletop fountain designs available. On the other hand, if you can afford to part ways with a few hundred to thousand dollars, there are comprehensive options for elaborate designs.

In addition to the buying price, you need to factor in additional expenses such as installation and maintenance costs, unforeseen risks, and emerging repairs.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Now that you have found the right fountain for your space, it’s time to think about installation needs. You may want to consider the following tips to make an informed decision: 

General Installation Tips

• Identify the most suitable location: This will ensure that you install the fountain in an open location where visitors can see it effortlessly, if that’s the intended purpose, and allow for easy access when the need arises.
• Energy supply: If you plan to use the main power outlet, install the fountain where you can access the power sources effortlessly whenever you need to turn the pump on or off.
• Water source: How do you plan to refill the fountain? Manually or with a connected water supply? Answering these questions helps gauge the right spot to install your fountain.
• Decorative extras: If you’re considering adding extra elements to spruce up the fountain, then decide on the best object that completes the feature. These may include decorative rocks and gravel, plants, and other objects.

Winterizing Your Fountain

The winterization process entails draining the fountain. This is crucial as it prevents damage in extreme situations, including freezing temperatures. 

To winterize your fountain:

1. Switch off the power outlet and unplug the pump.
2. Drain all the water from the fountain. You can safely remove the pump at this point, if applicable, and set it aside.
3. Let your fountain dry, and then lay dry fabrics in the bowls to soak up any water that may get inside.
4. If you have a large fountain, consider covering it to protect it from ice and snow or disassembling it and storing the parts indoors. 

Routine Maintenance and Cleaning

Routine maintenance and cleaning can enhance the appearance and lifespan of your fountain. To maintain the aesthetics of your fountain, consider these tips:

• Monitor water levels: Constantly check the fountain to ensure there is sufficient water for optimal performance.
• Clean the pump: Regular cleaning will help prevent clogs and remove unwanted debris that may affect its functionality.
• Clean the fountain: Periodically empty and clean the entire fountain with suitable products to prevent mineral and algae buildup.
• Remove debris: Assess the fountain for the presence of any debris, including leaves and stones, and remove them.
• Landscape around the fountain: You can introduce a mix of low-key planters, green carpets, sitting spots, and pathways to improve the area's appearance.
• Add lighting: Lighting can also make a significant difference, creating a magical effect. Choose from a variety of lighting fixtures available, including submersible lights, path lights, and spotlights,
• Create focal points: These points attract people's attention, enhancing the visual effect of the fountain. You can introduce sculptures and statues in the space, place arbors at entry and exit points, or even design greenery along the path leading to the fountain. 

Troubleshooting Common Issues

You may notice your fountain has a problem when you turn it on, want to shut it down, or when it's operating. Fountains may malfunction for various reasons, and knowing what to do when the problem arises can save you a lot of stress and time. 

 Whichever the case, consider checking for the following: 

• Issue with plugging: Plug it back in the power outlet and switch it on.
• Lighting problems: Check for flickering lights or electrical faults.
• Broken fountain: Check how long the fountain has been in operation.
• Malfunctions in the wiring system: Check for bent or broken wires.
• Low level of water: Subsequent water evaporation in hot weather may need frequent refilling of the fountain.
• Noisy pump: This could be caused by factors such as a clogged system, faults in speed setting, air in the system, significant wear and tear, or too high or low water volume, among other reasons.
• Clogged pump: Assess for debris, which can affect the frequency and speed of the water flow.
• Water leakage in the reservoir: This could be evident in low water pressure.
• Examine the pump: Its cover could be broken, or the wall could be worn out. Additionally, the impeller could have misplaced blades or cracked shafts.
• Change in color and smell of the water: Check whether it's brown, green, or orange, which indicates algae growth.
• Freezing cases: Consider winterizing the fountain.

Explore the Available Options

With the endless options of outdoor fountains available, your search should be exciting. From birdbath fountains to bubblers and urn fountains, there will always be something perfect for your space. 

Whichever you choose, ensure it’s the right material, can create the mood you’re looking for, and has enough space for installation. You may also want to consider the installation and maintenance costs involved over the long run. 

In all you do, remember troubleshooting your fountain when needed is the key to ensuring it operates efficiently throughout its lifespan. 

Only buy a water feature that is convenient enough and functional for your space.