How do small fountain pumps work? Fountain Pumps. The pump is the unseen heart of your fountain. Submerged in the reservoir, the pump draws water into its housing, where an impeller (a water propeller spun by electricity) forces the water out through the pump's outflow fitting.
How do electric fountain pumps work?
Electric pumps are available as small fountain pumps with a capacity of 50-100 gallons per hour, or bigger pumps for more demanding fountains or ponds. Like their name suggests, these pumps receive energy from the sun. Their main advantages are the impact on the environment, the reduction of running costs and the silent operation.
Why choose a multifunction pump for your water fountain?
Thanks to its compact size, the pump is easy to disguise and, thanks to the suction cups, is easy to install on the fountain’s bottom or walls. This multifunction pump comes with two nozzles which allow the customization of the water stream.
How does a small water pump work?
Most pumps have a flow control mechanism to regulate the outflow of water. By adjusting the rate of flow, you can achieve different effects and eliminate unwanted splashing. Most small pumps come with rubber or plastic feet to help cushion them and/or hold them in place.
How do waterfall fountains work?
For large waterfall fountains, this could even be a small pond at the base of the water feature. Basins catch the falling water and redirect it to the reservoir to continue the cycle. In homemade fountains, a bucket is often buried below the main structure of the fountain to collect the water and house the pump.
Does a fountain pump go in the water?
The pump goes in the reservoir, or, in a two-pump fountain, in the reservoir and the top basin. It may or may not be encased in a filter box, which -- just like the filter in a swimming pool -- helps keep out debris.
How do you install a small fountain pump?
1:523:37How to Install a Landscape Fountain Kit - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSaw drill a hole for each plumbing. Line drill each hole approximately one-quarter inch wider thanMoreSaw drill a hole for each plumbing. Line drill each hole approximately one-quarter inch wider than the diameter of the pipe being used carefully position the decorative fountain on the basin.
Do fountain pumps have to be submerged?
3 Answers. Show activity on this post. A submersible water pump will operate when not submerged, but running dry will usually reduce the life of the pump because the water is typically the cooling source for the pump.
Why is my small fountain pump not working?
There might be air in the line between pump and fountain. Unplug the pump and plug it back in a couple of times to remove air bubbles. If 1-3 above are not the problem, then your pump might be dirty. Remove the impeller according to manufacturer's instructions, clean, and replace.
How do outdoor water fountains work?
The pump forces water upwards to create a falling effect into a lower basin. The pump uses water pressure and tubes to force the water back into the reservoir to start the cycle over again. The number of reservoirs and pumps in a fountain can vary, with large outdoor fountains commonly having multiple basins.
How do you hook up a water feature to a pump?
How to connect the pump and lights on a Water FeatureTake the transformer and insert the pump cable into the transformer.If the Feature has lights connect the light too.Then connect the clear tubing to the pump outlet. ... Ensure the pump is placed back inside the feature and fully submerged in water.More items...
How does a pump work in a fountain?
Fountain pumps are typically centrifugal pumps, which move water using pressure from centrifugal force created by the movement of an impeller. A fountain pump functions like a sump pump, except that the water is fed back into the pond or reservoir rather than out of it.
How do small pond pumps work?
Submersible pond pumps run on a fairly basic principle when broken down. An electric motor is used to drive an impeller. As the impeller turns, water is drawn in one side of the pump, and is expelled out the other. The amount of water flow is determined by the power and size of the impeller.
Can a fountain pump electrocute you?
As a result, plugging an electric water pump into a regular outlet can make it vulnerable to a power surge. It can also increase the risk of electric shock. Therefore, if you use an electric pump, you must make sure that you plug it into a GFCI receptacle or replace your old outlet.
How do you prime a small fountain pump?
How To Prime Your Water PumpMake sure the power is turned off. Never leave a pump plugged in while you're working on it. ... Gain access to the pump system. ... Check for damage. ... Test a hose. ... Open the relief valves. ... Attach the hose. ... Turn on the water and wait for it to enter the tank. ... Turn the power on.
How do I know if my water pump is pumping?
6:2610:50HOW TO CHECK IF YOUR WATER PUMP WORKS & CIRCULATES ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSometimes you can tell if the water is flowing if you just look down there all right sometimes youMoreSometimes you can tell if the water is flowing if you just look down there all right sometimes you can see the water flow and that'll let you know if your water pump is slowing.
How do you adjust the water flow on a fountain pump?
How to Cut Down the Pressure on a Water Pump on a FountainTurn off the fountain's water pump. ... Locate the water pump's input control, often located on the bottom of the pump or near the bottom on the back or sides. ... Change the dial to a lower speed, moving it one or two notches.More items...
How do recirculating water pumps work?
Recirculating water pumps are rated by the number of gallons of water they pump per hour, which helps determine the optimal flow for the fountain. Basically the more water you want to pump, the higher the GPH you will need. Factors include the height of the fountain spray desire or the height the water must be pumped to before it returns to ...
What is a recirculating fountain?
A recirculating fountain allows you to enjoy enjoy the soothing sounds of splashing water without stressing over the water bill or feeling guilty. The fountain can be an elegant focal point on a patio, a tranquil table-top fountain indoors or even a tiny brook and waterfall in the garden -- the choices are many.
Where is the bucket in a waterfall fountain?
In homemade fountains, a bucket is often buried below the main structure of the fountain to collect the water and house the pump.
Do recirculating fountains drop water?
In addition to watching out for mineral buildup, you need to ensure that the water level in the recirculating fountain doesn't drop. Evaporation and splashing will reduce the level over time.Thirsty wildlife and pets, even ones that have water dishes a few feet away, enjoy drinking from recirculating fountains.
What happens if a fountain pump is too small?
If the pump is too small, the water won't move at the rate you need it to bubble and break over the steps, ball or waterfall. If you have designed a fountain that will also travel to a waterfall, a larger submersible pump should be used and paired with an in-ground filter.
How long does it take to install a water fountain pump?
Pond pump installation should only take a few minutes if all of the pieces are in place. Place the pump with the water outtake pipe facing upward.
Why do fountains sound?
The sound of a bubbling founta in improves the setting of any space. It builds sound, motion and refracts light to create a soothing atmosphere. Although there are oodles of fountains in various sizes, shapes and scenes, building your own opens you to a vast array of design possibilities as either stand-alone features or as part ...
How does a floating pond fountain work?
The pump forces the water through a decorative nozzle, and that is how you get the pretty fountain displays. A floating pond fountain will give you high and decorative displays. This type of fountain will also aerate your pond, but at a lower rate. Any time you move the water you are interrupting stagnation, slowing the growth ...
How many gallons of water can a 2 HP fountain pump?
A 2 HP fountain can only pump 15,000 gallons per hour, while a 2 HP decorative aerator can move an astounding 34,000 gallons per hour into the air.
How do aerators work in a pond?
Unlike floating pond fountains, pond aerators need to move high volumes of water in order to accomplish the following tasks: Effectively aerate the pond or lake by moving as much water as possible while refreshing the stagnant pond water (destratification).
What is a floating fountain?
Floating Pond Fountains: A floating fountain is the most beautiful way to aerate a pond or lake. Seeing water cascading on the surface of your pond is very pretty and the sound is soothing. The chart we created below gives you a quick and thorough idea of which size pump you should choose.
How to aerate a pond?
Unlike floating pond fountains, pond aerators need to move high volumes of water in order to accomplish the following tasks: 1 Effectively aerate the pond or lake by moving as much water as possible while refreshing the stagnant pond water (destratification). 2 Improve the landscape or waterscape with its visual appearance, and also with the tranquil sound of the splashing water from the plume spray.
What is the shape of a pond?
The Shape of a Pond. Aeration is restricted in ponds with irregular shapes, like oblong or with coves. The oxygenated water created by a fountain won’t reach those isolated areas of your pond. Multiple pond water fountains or a combination of a fountain and sub-surface aeration system may be needed for proper aeration.
What is a pond aerator?
Pond Aerators: A pond aerator is similarly beautiful to a floating fountain, but it is able to move significantly more water per hour. Water does not enter the motor, similar to a boat propeller. Consequently, aerators don’t have different spray patterns.
How many gallons per hour does a fountain pump use?
Small fountain pumps have capacities that vary between 50 and 1000 gallons per hour. I prefer small capacity pumps for many reasons, but this doesn’t mean they are better than large ones.
What is a submersible pump?
Submersible Water Pumps. As their name suggests, these pumps are designed to be submerged in the water. They are easy to install and work well in a wide variety of environments. Most submersible pumps are perfect for small water fountains but they are also used to oxygenate the water in a pond or aquarium.
Can a solar fountain pump run at night?
Their main advantages are the impact on the environment, the reduction of running costs and the silent operation. However, a solar fountain pump won’t run at night or on cloudy days.
Can you use a small fountain pump for indoor use?
For instance, many small pumps are ideal for aquariums, to oxygenate the water. Some of them are even suitable for indoor use. For example, you can use a small fountain pump to build an indoor Zen fountain.
Can a water pump be used in a bird bath?
The pump has many applications. It is suitable for a bird bath or small outdoor fountain, for an indoor fountain or even to aerate the water in an aquarium or pond. Thanks to its compact size, the pump is easy to disguise and, thanks to the suction cups, is easy to install on the fountain’s bottom or walls.
Can a Zen fountain be used outdoors?
Despite its excellent performances, the pump has a small profile size and is easy to hide or disguise. The fountain is excellent for indoor garden fountains, such as a Zen fountain, and for aquariums but it can’t be used for outdoor applications. Sadly, this is a limit for many homeowners.
