Thinking of adding a fountain to your pond? Installing a pond fountain is simple, and it will add both visual interest and the benefit of oxygenation to your pond. A pond fountain is generally made up of a recirculating submersible electric pump with a fountain jet attached to it (also called a spray fountain). There are many different sizes and styles of pond fountains available; the style of the spray is a matter of preference, but the size depends upon how large your pond is. Your preferred fountain retailer can help you choose the pond fountain that is right for your pond. You’ll need to have the pump and fountain jet combo, a large terracotta pot, some concrete blocks, and a nearby source of electricity. There are four easy steps to install a pond fountain:
1. The pond fountain must be placed where you can easily get to it for maintenance. If you have a small pond, this is not an issue. If the fountain is going into a large pond, you may want to position it so that it is close to the edge.
2. The pump must be raised up from the floor of the pond in order to reduce the amount of debris sucked into it. This also ensures that the fountain head will be above the water. This is where your terracotta pot comes in – turn it upside down and place the pump on top. If it’s not the right height, use concrete blocks to raise it. If your pump is small and lightweight, you may need to tie it to the pot to prevent it from floating away. Make sure it is situated so that the fountain jet is facing up.
3. You must have an electrician install an outdoor power socket, if you don’t already have one. This socket should have a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GCFI, known as a Residual Current Device outside the U.S. and Canada) protecting it, since the cord will be under the water. This device helps prevent electric shock. Plug your pump into the socket. If there is excess cable, bind it together under the water where it won’t be noticed. If the cord must cross a lawn, use a square-tipped shovel to cut and pry open the sod about 6 inches deep, push the cord down with a stick, and then press the slot closed with your foot.
4. Now, adjust the flow of the water using the switch or screw on the pump. Start with it in the ‘low’ or ‘down’ position, and slowly move it up. Ask a friend or family member to watch from the sidelines, so they can tell you if the water spray is all going back into the pond. Once you’ve found the perfect level, you’re done! Now you and your family can relax and enjoy your new pond fountain.