Fountains are a great way to add visual appeal to the landscape, and the stirring water is relaxing and tranquil to hear. When selecting the ideal fountain for your outdoor landscape, you will want to consider a few factors. Start by determining the size of your pond, and then choose the spray pattern design that is most appealing to you.
Step 1) Calculate Pond Size
The first step to choosing the ideal fountain is measuring the size of your pond or lake. Knowing your pond's length, width, and depth will help you choose a fountain with the correct dimensions to maximize your space.
Step 2) Choose Your Preferred Spray Pattern
Spray patterns come in various shapes and aesthetics to fit any style. There are traditional patterns that feature familiar shapes with robust water flow. Laminar spray patterns have clean lines for those who prefer a more tailored and modern look. When it comes to choosing the right spray pattern for decorative fountains, there is no one right answer and it’s a matter of preference.
Are you having trouble choosing? Most fountain lines have interchangeable spray patterns, so you order as many as you like and change your look quickly and easily.
Step 3) Determine Optimal Fountain Height
When considering the best height for your new fountain, first consider how the fountain will display from the viewing area. If you are viewing the fountain from your back deck, consider the best height from that view. Next, consider the surrounding nature and hardscapes, such as tall trees or buildings.
Too large a pattern and the fountain will dominate the space both in look and sound. If the spray is so large that it hits the shoreline, it will cause erosion and ruin the aesthetic. On the other hand, too small a pattern and the fountain will be swallowed up by the expanse of water and look inadequate. Finding a balance is key.
Step 4) Align Fountain Size to Horsepower Motor
The horsepower of the motor largely determines fountain height and width. Reference spray pattern dimensions for the various fountain sizes to see which aligns best with your space. You will also want to note the operating depth of each fountain, as shallow ponds may not accommodate larger fountains.
Feeling overwhelmed? We're here to help! Give us a call at (866) 766-3435, and we'll connect you with one of our experts who will help you with all your pond and lake needs.
Step 5) Plan Installation and Layout
Once you have established your desired fountain spray pattern and size, it's time to plan for installation. Take measurements of your pond, including length and width, and depth. Next, measure the distance from the shore to your power source. Power cords are sold in various lengths, and obtaining correct measurements is critical.
Optional Step) Add Lights for Nighttime Display
You can extend the hours of fountain enjoyment by adding full-spectrum, color-changing LED lights. Lights allow you to set the mood by changing the color of your pond fountain lights, including white, blue, green, red, and more.
Supplement Fountain With Diffused Aeration System
In addition to their aesthetic qualities, fountains also add a great deal of oxygen to the pond as the tiny droplets contact the air and fall back into the pond. However, if your pond is more than 6 feet deep, a fountain alone will not provide enough aeration to maintain a balanced ecosystem. We recommend installing a bottom diffused aeration system. Aeration helps circulate water, increase oxygen levels, reduce muck, and improve water quality. Learn more about aeration.
Get a Free Pond Profile
Wondering how to aerate a pond or how to maintain a pond in general? We hear these questions from pond owners all the time. That’s why we created our free Pond Profile and aeration mapping service to help people like you make the most of your outdoor space and start off on the right foot with pond management tips and fundamentals.
Last Updated: May 5, 2023