Frequently Asked Questions for Outdoor Fountains

Outdoor fountains come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, styles, and colors. But regardless of how different they are, there always seems to be the same questions floating around about them. If you have an outdoor water fountain, or are planning on getting one, then check out these FAQ to find out everything you need to know about outdoor fountains.

 

What Are the Benefits of Water Fountains?

Fountains are not only beautiful décor, they can provide stress relief and relaxation. They can also drown out unwanted sound by providing the calming sound of water to your indoor or outdoor space.

Should You Leave an Outdoor Fountain On All the Time?

You can leave fountain pumps on constantly. They are specifically designed to run for hours or days at a time. You will just want to ensure the pump is fully submerged in water at all times. We do recommend turning the fountain off if you will be away from the fountain for several days. 

Will My Fountain Fade in the Sun?

Most outdoor water fountains are made of durable resin casts, concrete, and rubber. These materials shouldn’t fade in the sun, or other elements, but it’s never 100% guaranteed. With that being said, it’s very unlikely that your fountain would ever lose color or finish by sitting in the sun.

Do Garden Fountains Need a Water Source?

No. The fountains we sell are recirculating, meaning they do not need to be connected to a water source to run properly. We do recommend checking your fountain's water level from time to time to ensure there is plenty of water in the basin. If it seems to be running low, add some more water. That being said, many of our fountains do have the option of an Autofill System, where they can be connected to a water source if preferred.

Do Outdoor Fountains Use a Lot of Electricity?

Most fountains use a very small amount of electricity, although this will vary based on the size of your fountain pump. The larger the fountain, the larger the pump. Regardless, you should not notice a significant increase on your power bill.

Are Outdoor Fountains Hard to Maintain?

No. Both Indoor and Outdoor Fountains are very easy to maintain! A standard fountain in normal elements should only need to be cleaned 2-3 times per year, including the clean-out you perform when winterizing it. However, if you notice algae, dirt, and other debris forming in your fountain, we suggest cleaning it right away. Leaving it too long can decrease the life of your pump.

Can I Put Vinegar in My Outdoor Fountain?

Yes. You can use one part water to one part white vinegar to kill algae. You can also use a soft bristle brush to gently scrub away any remaining algae.  Afterwards, rise the area with water and drain the fountain before refilling it with clean water.

Can I Put Chlorine in My Outdoor Fountain?

No. Chlorine will slowly eat away at the cast stone concrete and cause the fountain to crumble over time. We never recommend using chlorine or other harsh chemicals, like anti freeze. These can harm your fountain.

Is it Safe for Rain Water to Get in My Outdoor Fountain?

Absolutely! The pump will make sure to filter out any unwanted materials. The fountain water isn’t meant for drinking other than by birds and small animals.

How Long Can I Expect My Outdoor Fountain to Last?

As long as your fountain is properly maintained it should last for years, if not decades! Fountains are a great investment and can bring a touch of elegance and calm to your outdoor space. Of course, you will want to make sure your fountain is cared for and properly winterized each year. For more help on winterizing your fountain check out our blog post here.

What Should I Look For When Buying an Outdoor Fountain?

Consider where you would want to place an outdoor water feature. Would you want it to be an accent in your space, or a focal point? Depending on where you'd like to place the fountain will determine the size of fountain you will be looking for. There are many fountains that can utilize small spaces, like wall fountains or corner fountains.

For a focal point, we recommend one of our large outdoor water features. Many customers decide to add a fountain to enhance curb appeal and add class to their space.

The next thing to keep in mind is the fountain design or style. Are you looking for something more modern, or a classic, traditional style fountain? For help finding recommendations, give us a call. We are happy to help!

 Is It Hard to Install an Outdoor Fountain?

No. Installation is very simple! The fountains typically come disassembled, usually on a pallet. For help installing large or heavy outdoor fountains we recommend working with a local contractor or landscaper. 

 

For more questions, reach out to us at info@OutdoorFountainPros.com or give us a call at 888-562-7602.