Whether you’ve already installed water features in your pond or you’re looking into it, Love My Pond can help. As experts in water health, we can help you maintain healthy water in your pond, and one of the most aesthetically pleasing ways to do that is by installing a water feature, like a water fountain.
In this article, we will give you guidance on what fountain pumps are, how to choose a quality pump, what benefits a fountain pump can have for your pond, and the best ways to install and maintain your feature pumps.
What Are Water Fountain Pumps? Do I Need a Water Fountain Pump?
A water fountain pump is a device that helps to circulate and aerate (in some cases) the water flow through a water feature, like a fountain. They can be used in indoor fountains, pond pumps, garden ponds, and more extensive outdoor water features.
The primary use of a fountain pump is water flow control. They work to move the water from the lower basin up to a higher point. It is then free to cascade back down to create the water displays that people install water features for.
Fountain pumps are usually made with durable and water-resistant materials, which means that once installed, they will last a long time. They are also often made to be energy efficient so that you don’t waste energy when leaving the water features in your garden pond overnight.
The fountain pump is an essential part of a water feature. It will not create beautiful cascading water displays without a fountain pump, and it helps to maintain flow control and keep water circulating.
The Benefits of a Water Fountain Pump
Installing a fountain pump can have many benefits above and beyond the facilitation of your water feature. Check out the benefits below.
Circulation and Aeration
Circulation is essential in outdoor water bodies. By ensuring that water flow is controlled, the water will not stagnate, and algae won’t have a chance to grow. In addition, the circulation of water can help to introduce oxygen into the water, which supports better overall health of the water.
Aesthetic Appeal
A water feature enhances the overall aesthetic value of your garden ponds. If you don’t install a fountain pump, you’re not going to get the beautiful water displays. So, pond pump installation is essential!
Algae Control
As we addressed above, proper circulation is vital for algal control. If the water is constantly moving, algae cannot get a foothold, which helps to preserve the clarity and cleanliness of your water. This can make your water body not only look great but also make it safe for the kids to play in!
Water Maintenance
As well as algal control, a water pump can also ensure overall water maintenance. By constantly moving the water, debris doesn’t have a chance to settle at the bottom, and cleaning is much easier. This makes the pond or dam not only cleaner and safer but also more inviting for the little ones.
Thermal Regulation
Extreme weather conditions, like particularly warm weather, can cause problems for water bodies. However, a fountain pump can reduce the risks of water overheating in the summer by keeping it moving at all times.
Mosquito Control
Stagnant water can attract mosquitoes, but if the water is constantly moving, it can’t become stagnant. This means that a fountain pump can actually help to prevent mosquito infestations. It works for other insects that lay their eggs on the surface of the water, too, and can make the water safe and enjoyable all year round.
Odour Prevention
Stagnant water can lead to unpleasant odours, but with the constant movement supplied by a fountain pump, you can avoid them. This is particularly common in warmer weather, so investing in a fountain pump in time for the Australian summer can keep your pond as appealing as possible.
Improving Property Value
Water features can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property, and well-maintained water can only improve this. So, investing in fountain pumps can help you when it comes time to sell your property. You can increase the asking price and make a better profit.
How to Choose the Perfect Fountain Pump
Choosing the perfect fountain pump for your water features can be challenging. To begin with, you may not even know what different options are on offer, so we’ve made it simpler. Below is a brief guide to choosing the best quality pump for your pond.
The Different Types of Fountain Pumps
There are two main types of fountain pumps that we recommend here at Love My Pond. These are aerating fountain pumps and non-aerating fountain pumps.
Aerating fountain pumps are specifically designed to introduce more air into the water. They tend to be a good choice where oxygenation for the water is needed, i.e., if you’re trying to boost the health of your water body. You can also use them in wastewater treatment plants and fish tanks.
Non-aerating fountain pumps are used when oxygenation isn’t the primary purpose of installation. They still move water from one place to another, which does help to introduce oxygen, but their main purpose is water movement. You can usually find non-aerating fountain pumps in water features, irrigation systems, and water fountains.
Fountain Pump Installation and Maintenance Tips
Fountain pumps can bring a number of benefits to your pond or lake. As such, you may have decided it is time to install a water feature with a pond pump. Below are some of our top tips for installation and maintenance of water pumps.
For Installation:
- First things first, you’re going to need to choose the right pond pump for your water feature. This means checking that the size and style of your fountain match with the water pump you’ve bought. The pond pump needs to have the capacity to circulate the volume of water required in your water feature.
- Next up, make sure that your water feature is not connected to any electrical source during installation. You need to make safety a top priority when working with electricity and water!
- Make sure you prepare the basin of your water feature before installing new fountain pumps. Clear it of debris and algae.
- Always place the pond pump at the lowest possible point of the basin. This way, the water pump will be able to draw the most water, enhancing its efficiency.
For Maintenance:
- Regular cleaning is essential for adequately functioning fountain pumps. You should clean the pump itself, the filter, and the surrounding area to prevent clogs and debris build-up. Always turn the pump off and unplug it when cleaning it.
- Always maintain adequate water levels to ensure that the pump is fully submerged and won’t overheat. If your water feature has consistently low water levels, your water pump may not last as long as it should.
- Carry out regular inspections on the fountain pumps, tubes, and connections. Ensure there are no leaks, blockages, or wear and tear that could lead to problems. If you find any pondage, then be sure to replace the tubing and reseal connections ASAP.
- With some fountain pumps, you can adjust the flow control. This gives you the opportunity to experiment with different flow rates and to work out which rate works best for the aesthetic appeal of your water fountain as well as for the maintenance of your feature pumps.
- Keep the water in good condition. This includes removing algae and scale from hard water. You may try adding probiotic treatments to your water if you’re having problems like algal blooms and eutrophication.
- If you live in a region where water temperatures may drop below freezing, then be sure to winterise your fountain. This means removing any fountain pumps to prevent freezing and cracking and keeping them indoors in a dry location.
Love My Pond: The Destination for Water Feature Fountain Pumps, Pond Pumps, Water Pumps, Fountain Nozzles
If you’ve come here looking for water fountain pumps, fountain nozzles, and more, then you have come to the right place. Love My Pond should be your number-one destination for all your water health needs.
We’re committed to creating healthy water that looks pristine and stays safe for the kids to play in all year round. We do so by using biological and natural treatments, like probiotics and aerating pumps, to avoid pondaging chemicals and ensure your water body maintains an ecosystem similar to that of a natural water body.
If you’ve got questions or concerns or just want more information on how aeration can improve the health of your water, don’t hesitate to contact the team today.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pond pump comes down to two things: the specifications of your water feature and the primary purpose of your water fountain pump. If you want your fountain to simply look pretty, then a non-aerating pump is a good choice. If you’re looking to install a water fountain that not only enhances the aesthetics of your pond but will also improve the health of the water, then try an aerating fountain pump!
For more information on the water fountain pumps we offer at Love My Pond, check out our whole inventory here.
