It makes sense to install and own a fountain only when one is able to dedicate money and time towards its maintenance and upkeep. The best operating condition is possible only by following important steps.
Water fountains are generally the most versatile decorative pieces in any garden. They can easily beautify and increase the value of the building around it. Also, the sounds of flowing water from have relaxing effects on animals, birds, and other humans.
Water fountains and their types
Humans have manipulated water over the years not just to tap into its potential but also revel in its beauty. Think of the many different kinds of famous and ancient fountains found in Italy! However, fountains differ significantly in terms of location, typology, and features. Here are some of the different types:
- Sculptural fountains– These water features are common among fountains, seen at several village and city venues. They contain several inbuilt sculptural features. These fountains can be made into shapes of animals, objects, historical or modern art patterns. There are mermaid fountains, dolphin fountains, little boy peeing fountains, elephant fountains, etc. They are most often made of concrete or stone or resin, though sometimes sealed steel fountains are created.
- Floating fountains– As the name suggests, these float on the water, and are often used for both small or large ponds. A pump is connected beneath a float, on top of which is a nozzle to create a display pattern. Often lights are added for pleasant nighttime viewing. They can have dynamic designs that make them very attractive. Floating fountains come with fastening cables to ground the devices to the bottom of the pond or the shoreline, so that they remain tethered in place despite the amazing design. You can see a number of these floating pond fountains here.
- Tiered fountains– These are more like the traditional type of fountains. Like the name suggests, these fountains contain tiers (basins placed at different levels) which shape the water to produce amazingly soothing sounds. The most common design is the "classic Italian 2-tier or 3-tier fountain. The more distance between the tiers, the water sounds become louder, since water has to fall through a greater length. One can find them in plazas, courtyards, and several Mediterranean countries. It is often a very good idea to add an autofill device to these fountains, as the water splash will create evaporation and they can empty quickly, depending on how much water is being recirculated. Used at low flow, these fountains can create a pleasant and soft "droplets tinkling" effect.
- Cascading fountains– These fountains are subtle and elegant, and water generally flows from a height to a lower level. Use them to create a relaxation hub in any garden.
- Pondless fountains– Also called "disappearing fountains," these are a modern type of fountain where a basin is buried beneath stones or gravel. A pump is located in within this basin but is hidden from view. You don't have to worry about a visitor falling into the pond as there is only a basin covered with rock. Also, these can create an unusual sense of a fountain appearing right out of the ground. They might be made of stainless steel which shines bright in sunlight, resin, concrete, stone, and so forth.
- Fountain Stains One thing that can disappoint customers, is that fountains often become stained by minerals. One solution is to use distilled water. Another is to add a stain remover to the water, but make sure it is safe for animals.
In addition to these, one can always have fountains with special effects, which include "squirting fountains" and "leaping fountains." For extra drama, some very large special-effect fountains include not only a powerful pump but air compressors, too, in order to force the water high into the air. LED light shows can be added..
Things to consider while buying fountains
- Find out about the manufacturer– For good quality units, it is always beneficial to verify the credentials of the manufacturer. California, in particular, has a whole network of fountain manufacturers, whose owners are often related to one another and compete friendily, often sharing each other's moulds.
- Do you want your pump to be submersible or "inline." Inline pumps do not need to be submersed and operate externally from the display, outside of the basin. They require a priming pot. One striking advantage is that the pump can be repaired or replaced without the need to dismantle the fountain, which could be quite heavy.
- Check lighting features– While some water features have built in lighting, some get it externally. Think about what kind of effect you want when placing your lights. What parts of the fountain do you which to accent most?
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