When you think about adding a fountain to your landscaping, you first need to determine if it will fit in with the style of your home. Fountains come in all shapes and sizes, and some would look great on any property. However, others may not be the best choice for your home. Below are some tips for determining if a home fountain is right for you.

1. Decide on the Overall Look You Are Trying to Achieve in Your Landscaping

A fountain may not be the best choice if you want a more formal look. Conversely, pond fountains could be a great addition if you’re going for a more natural look. They give an aesthetic appeal.

They also provide aeration, which helps oxygenate the water and reduce excessive algae growth. By keeping the water moving, the pond aeration provided by many fountains helps remove bad smells and decrease mosquito activity.

2. Consider the Size of Your Property

A large fountain may not be the best option if you have a small yard. Conversely, a smaller fountain could get lost in the landscape if you have a large property. The size of the fountain also needs to be considered in relation to other features in your yard.

For example, a large fountain may make the pond look even smaller if you have a small pond. By calculating the area of your pond, you can work out how much water you have and choose the right fountain for your pond.

3. Think About How Much Maintenance You Are willing to Do

Fountains require maintenance, such as cleaning the pump and ensuring the water level is full. If you’re not willing to do this type of maintenance, then a fountain may not be the best choice for you. It’s important to read the instructions that come with the fountain before buying it to ensure you are aware of the maintenance required.

4. Determine Your Budget

Fountains can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The cost of the fountains and aerators depends on a number of factors. The first is the size of your pond and the amount of water you need to pump. The more powerful the pump, the more it’s likely to cost. If you have a limited budget, you may choose a smaller fountain or one that does not have all the bells and whistles. Fountain Mountain sells budget fountains to very large ones.

5. Consider Your Climate

If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, you will need to take extra care of your fountain to ensure it does not freeze and crack. Conversely, if you live in a hot climate, you’ll need to ensure your fountain has enough shade to keep the water from evaporating.

This is especially important if you live in an area with high humidity. Choosing a fountain made from materials that can withstand your climate is important.

6. Determine the Best Location for the Fountain

This is important because you need to ensure the fountain gets enough sunlight and is close enough to an electrical outlet. You also want to ensure the fountain is not in a low-lying area where water could pool and cause flooding. It’s important to consider the fountain's placement before you buy it to ensure it will work in your landscape.

7. Choose the Right Material for Your Fountain

Fountains are made from a variety of materials, such as:

●      Concrete

●      Stone

●      Metal

●      Plastic

The material you choose should be durable and able to withstand the elements. It should also be easy to clean and maintain.

8. Select the Right Pump for Your Fountain

The pump is the heart of the fountain and needs to be the right size for the fountain and the pond. Ensure the pump you buy will fit dimensionally into your fountain’s basin. Many fountains have cutout areas in which a pump is placed. It also needs to be durable and able to withstand the elements.

Conclusion

Fountains can be a great addition to your home, but there are a few things you need to consider before you buy one. By following the tips in this guide, you can be sure to choose the right fountain for your home.

Guest Contributor: Samantha Higgins