How to Choose the Perfect Floating Pond Fountain for Your Yard
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A floating pond fountain integrates well with nature, providing a stunning visual appearance and releasing soft sounds of flowing water. This transforms your garden into a peaceful refuge. However, picking the most suitable floating pond fountain from the numerous options can be challenging. Luckily, this guide will assist you in picking out a floating pond fountain that is ideal for your garden’s design and functions.
1. Know the Size and Depth of Your Pond
The first step an owner should undertake is evaluating the dimensions of the pond, as this will help determine the features and designs needed. The majority of floating pond fountains come with adjustable features, so it is essential to understand the desired look of the garden after the fountain is integrated.
– Small Ponds: For smaller ponds (around 500 gallons), a compact water fountain with adjustable power options will be ideal. Such fountains should be placed at the pond’s center to enhance the surroundings’ beauty.
– Medium-Sized Ponds: If you have a mid-size pond with a capacity between 500 and 1500 gallons, a floating fountain with a mid-range flow and a few adjustable spray patterns would be ideal. This creates an attractive water feature without compromising the pond’s balance.
– Large Ponds: Larger ponds with a capacity of 1,500 gallons or above require a floating fountain with high flow rates to make an impact. Choose multi-nozzle fountains that are larger in size and can spray water in multiple adjustable patterns all at once for a gorgeous show.
In terms of height, ensure that the floating fountain you buy is suitable for the height of your pond. Most floating fountains function properly with 18 to 36-inch deep ponds.
2. Floating Fountains Material for Different Weather Scenarios
Pond fountains are made of various materials, each with its own benefits. The right material for your fountain will depend on your climate, pond conditions, and maintenance preferences.
– Plastic Fountains: Generally cheaper, low-weight, and easily maintainable, plastic pumps work nicely for smaller ponds. Often sold in various colors and designs, these fountains can be inexpensive. However, they are not as durable as other types.
– Stainless Steel Fountains: For a more elegant and modern look, stainless steel fountains are an excellent choice. These fountains are rust-resistant, endure wear and tear, and can last many years. They are ideal for both small and large ponds, giving them a modern look. Besides, they maintain their elegance for decades.
– Fiberglass Fountains: Fiberglass lends itself to durability and different designs. These fountains are strong yet lightweight, which makes them ideal for all types of ponds. Their installation and maintenance are also fairly straightforward. The fiberglass can endure harsh weather conditions without cracking.
3. Consider the Type of Water Spray Pattern
Floating fountains are available in a wide variety of fountains, each with its unique visual appeal. Consider how you want the fountain to look when placing it on the pond. And now, take a look at some of our more popular patterns:
– Bell Spray: A bell-shaped set of water flowing from the fountain is one of the most common effects. This adds elegance while creating an average to graceful feature for small to medium ponds.
– Mushroom Spray: The water can be released in a gentle fan-shaped spray, which can also be used for a more significant or calming effect for large ponds. Great for display purposes
– Vortex Spray: A powerful jet of water can be released in a chantilly effect. This spray is best suited for large ponds, as it provides a more dramatic feel to the fountain.
– Needle Spray: This is a simple linear spray best suited for a modern new design. It can easily create a beautiful sculptural piece, especially when combined with lighting at night.
4. Verify Energy Consumption and Water Flow Rate
The two most important factors for the floating fountain are the power, flow of energy, and water consumption, which determine how well the fountain works. The flow of energy is typically measured in Watts and gallons/hour (GPH). The more energy flows, the bolder and larger the water decoration.
– Small Ponds: For Decoration, use a submerged fountain rated at 40 to 70 watts with a flow rate of 150 to 350 GPH.
– Medium Ponds: Fountains with a rating of 70 to 120 watts are needed to flow at 350 to 600 GPH for medium-sized ponds.
– Large Ponds: Ponds of large size require a flow rate of 600 GPH or higher, accompanied by a pump boasting a power rating of 150 watts or more.
Conclusion
Selecting the ideal floating pond fountain for your yard is an enjoyable challenge. With water features and energy-efficient fountains, the overall beauty of your outdoor space is enhanced for years to come. Always remember the size and depth of the pond, the material, spray patterns, flow rate, maintenance requirements, and power, as these will help narrow down your endless possibilities.