How to Purchase Fountain Pumps

Buying the right pump is essential to create a beautiful water feature. Choosing the wrong one can lead to a failed installation or poor performance. Flow rate, horsepower, power rating, and outlet diameter are all factors to consider when selecting the best fountain pump.

Flow Rate

Flow rate measures how much water a pump can move in a given period of time. It is typically measured in cubic meters per hour (m3/h) but can also be expressed in liters per second or gallons per minute.

It is important to determine the pump flow rate when you consider purchasing a fountain pump before you make a decision. This will help you choose the maximum head height your pump can handle.

A pond or fountain must churn out enough water to make a waterfall. This will require a pump that has a high flow rate.

It would help if you chose a pump with a higher flow rate than your fountain's height. This will ensure the water can travel into the fountain and out of the spout without splashing or slowing down.

Power

Fountain pumps provide water flow to fountains and other devices for aesthetic or aeration purposes. They are submersible and can be used in indoor or outdoor applications.

Power is a key factor in choosing the right pump for your fountain. To choose the best pump for your fountain, determine the flow rate you need at the height you want to create a stream of water. Then measure the maximum lift or 'pumping height' of the pump.

Look for a maximum lift that is one and one-half times as high as the head of the fountain. This ensures a strong water flow into the fountain and out the head. You can use a pre-filtration pump to prevent debris from clogging the tubing and nozzle for extra safety. This will help protect the pump and your fountain from damage.

Installation

Whether buying a new fountain pump or upgrading the existing one in your garden, it's important to understand how the pump is designed and installed. It's also essential to know how to operate it.

Flow rate is a key factor in the operation of any fountain pump. It determines how much water a pump can move and is rated in gallons per hour or minute.

Head describes the pump's energy to the liquid (per unit weight). It is typically expressed in feet of head or ft.

Pressure is another important consideration when choosing a pump. It is a measurement of the operational pressure of the pump.

Horsepower is another measurement of the output power of a pump. It's usually a power rating of Watts or horsepower, but it may also be expressed in psi or bar.

The main components of most recirculating fountains are a reservoir container, a pump, and a fountain piece. The reservoir collects the water and carries it to the pump, recirculating it into the fountain.

Maintenance

Fountains are a focal point in most landscapes, requiring maintenance to keep them looking at their best. Proper care is necessary to prevent algae, water stains, blocked pipes, and mechanical failures from ruining their appearance or functioning properly.

Mineral buildup from tap water can corrode the pump, requiring frequent cleaning. This can also lead to an overworked pump.

Weeds, sticks, and other debris that fall into a fountain can also get caught up in the pump and clog it. Use a pool skimmer to remove these objects from your fountain's water.

If your recirculating fountain has a reservoir, ensure the water level remains above the pump's outflow "nipple." It may not be easy to check when the water is frozen in winter, but it's a good idea to keep an eye on it and refill the fountain as needed.

Clean the fountain pump and rocks once a month to prevent algae growth. Algae can grow more rapidly in sunny areas, so it's a good idea to avoid placing the fountain in direct sunlight if possible.

Conclusion 

Purchasing a fountain pump doesn't need to be an overwhelming task. Remember, when selecting the right pump for your fountain, ensure it is compatible with your fountain's size and power needs. Additionally, remember that a pump's wattage should never exceed the wattage rating of your fountain—furthermore, reliable research brands with excellent reviews help you make an informed decision. Don't forget about customer service, either. Knowing that some companies have technical support on standby if issues arise is invaluable and beneficial. You will also want to consider any special features you may need, such as priming baskets or extension cords, so you're sure to get all of the necessary components when purchasing your pump. Above all else, please read product descriptions thoroughly and adhere to product recommendations, as they usually represent what is most suitable for your individual application needs. With all this helpful information regarding purchasing fountain pumps, we hope you feel more confident in making a successful selection!