Installing A
Fountain
The sound of moving water and the sun sparkling on water spray brings a fishpond to life. A pump is required, but when you have this installed there are various options open to you with regards a fountain. Stone ornaments can be bought, some of which stand in the pond and some stand on the side spouting a column of water back into the pool. Some are fitted with a spray head that can be changed, giving a pattern of fine droplets falling onto the ponds surface. The ornaments can be animals, fish, birds, frogs, or cherubs, some are made of concrete and some are made of a strong durable plastic and they also come in a wide range of finishes.
If you don't fancy an artificial ornament you can settle for the fountain that comes with most pumps. Interchangeable heads are available to give a variety of patterns and only cost a few pounds. There are more exotic fountainheads sold which create a bell, or tulip shape of water spray. These are ideal in a small water feature, or pond as the wind can't catch them so easily and empty the pond on a windy day. With these sorts of fountains it is usually necessary to stand the pump on some bricks in the pool, so that the fountain head is above the water level, but in shallow pools at least, it is possible to buy fountain extensions.
Not only is a fountain aesthetically pleasing, but also the water movement oxygenates the water, pumping air into it on a hot summers day when the fish might otherwise be gasping at the surface. The fountain can be left on if turned down to a safe level, but do bear in mind that the small holes of most fountain jets block up easily and constantly need cleaning with a piece of fine wire to keep them free.
In the winter it is usually best to turn off the fountain to prevent it freezing and damaging the pump. This facilitates the removal of the pump and enables you to give it an annual service and clean that can easily be done with most pumps. Then it can be stored away until the spring comes again and the pond starts with new activity and life returning to the pool.
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