Water Fountain Frequently Asked Questions

We get a lot of questions daily about water fountains of all types, wall fountains, tabletop fountain, outdoor fountains, custom fountains and more so we compiled some of the most popular fountain questions and put them in one place.

I love water fountains, but aren't they a lot of maintenance?

Fountains generally require very little maintenance.  Once they are set up the only thing you need to do is be sure you keep enough water in the basin or bowl of the fountain to cover the pump.  Like anything else in your home or office, you will periodically need to clean your fountain.  Other than that, sit back and enjoy the beauty and relaxing benefits of your water fountain.  Each fountain may have specific material maintenance instructions so refer to your instruction manual.

How do I know what size pump to buy for my water fountain?

The best place to start is by looking at your old pump for a model number and size.  If you don’t see this, measure your pump, you don’t want to purchase a pump that can not be fully submerged in the basin of your fountain.  You also want a pump that is going to have enough power to push the water from the base of your fountain to the source that the water comes out.  There are also fountain pumps that are for indoor fountains only or are approved for indoor and outdoor.  Be sure that if you have an outdoor fountain the pump you are buying is approved for outdoors.  You may also have the option of an on/off switch on the cord.  This may be convenient so you don’t have to unplug your water fountain to turn it off.  See fountain pump facts for more detail or shop Fountain Pumps

Why is the sound of my pump louder than the water sounds?

The main cause of a noisy pump is not enough water in the fountain.  Be sure that water is completely covering the pump and continue to add water until the noise stops.  If this does not work, check to be sure your pump is not vibrating against the fountain.  If it is, try to adjust how the pump is sitting or you can place a sponge or scotch brite pad under your pump or alongside it depending on where it is vibrating.

Is it necessary to use distilled water in my water fountain?

We recommend distilled water in your fountain because hard water, over time, will cause mineral deposits to develop.  However, when this is not possible, such as with larger wall fountains or floor standing fountains you can use tap water.  You may want to try a fountain care product such as Care Free Enzymes or No More Algae in the water to help prolong algae build up and keep your water fresh.

Will I get splashing from my Water Fountain?

All water fountains that are approved for indoors should not splash.  Typically splashing is a result of the fountain not being put together properly or too little water.  The instructions that come with your water fountain will have instructions on how to properly set up your fountain.  The level of water in your fountain can also be a cause for splashing.  Be sure your water level is neither too low nor too high.  With most fountains you can also adjust the pump to get optimal water flow.  Another tip is to add some river rocks or pebbles to the basin of your water fountain to prevent splashing.  

How often do I have to add water in my fountain?

This depends on the climate.  For example, in an environment that is dry or has a lot of plants you may find yourself adding water more often.  Once you have your fountain up and running you will be able to gauge how often you need to fill it, a general guideline is once every few days or once a week, similar to how you care for your plants.  You will notice that the water level in the base of your fountain alters the water sounds your fountain makes as well, so depending on the sound you are looking for you may want more or less water in your fountain.  Just always be sure your pump is completely submerged.

Will my water fountain have nice water sounds?

The water flow sounds of each water fountain are different.  Most of the fountain pumps are adjustable so you can somewhat control the water sounds of your fountain by adjusting the pump.  The water level in your basin also plays a role in the sound you get from the water flow of your fountain.  You can also add river rocks or pebbles in the basin of your fountain to lower the water sounds.  If you have a specific water fountain you are considering or would like some recommendations from our water fountain experts please call us at 1-888-881-4668.

Do I have to turn my water fountain off at night or when I am away?

Water fountain pumps last the longest and have the best performance when they run 24/7.  It is harder on the pump if it is turned on and off continuously.  You should not need to turn your fountain off as long as there is enough water in the fountain for the allotted time.

How do I clean my water fountain?

Cleaning your water fountain should be a fairly simple process.  This should be done every 2-4 months depending on if you are using distilled water or hard water.  When cleaning the fountain you should completely empty the water out, wipe the basin with a clean cloth or sponge, clean any rocks that are in the fountain so they are clean of algae build up, take your pump out and clean the tubing and wipe the pump clean from any algae build up as well.  Put your fountain back together and add fresh water, turn it back on.  If you have a large wall fountain or large floor standing model, you may find it easier to empty the old water out of your water feature with a shop vacuum or disconnect the pump and pump the water out of the fountain.   Depending on the material of your fountain, ie: Copper, Stainless Steel, Slate, Glass etc. the cleaning instructions for each material may vary.  You will find more information in the Fountain Care and Maintenance area or in the manual that came with your water fountain.

Do I need to put any fountain additives in my water to keep it clear from algae?

Fountain accessories are recommended especially if you aren’t using distilled water in your water fountain.  There are several products available to prevent algae, white scale and mineral build up. 

How do you install a wall fountain?

Wall fountains are easy to install and differ based on the wall mounted fountain you are looking at.  Some wall fountains are one-piece construction so you just hang it like a picture, others require a few more steps.  All of our wall fountains are built for anyone to be able to install them.  Under each specific wall fountain you will find most of the them have complete installation instructions.  If you have a specific fountain you are wondering how to install, please call us at 1-888-881-4668 and one of our fountain experts will help you.

What is the warranty on you water fountains?

The warranty on each water fountain depends on the fountain.  Usually there is a one year manufacturer's warranty.  If you have a specific water fountain you need warranty details about, please call us at 1-888-881-4668.

Does my water fountain come with a pump?  What do I need to make my fountain work?

All water fountains should come with a fountain pump.  The only thing you need to provide is the water and an outlet.

Do I need a water line coming in for my wall fountain?

No, you do not need a water line for most wall fountains.  With some wall fountains and floor standing fountains you do have the option of having us add an autofill and drain option to your fountain.  This is also available on custom fountains.  To learn more about autofill and drain options please call us at 1-888-881-4668 and talk to one of our water fountain experts.

How do I plug my wall fountain in?  Do I need a recessed outlet?

This will depend on what wall fountain you are purchasing.  Some wall fountains are made to not need a recessed outlet and some do.  All wall fountains need a 110V outlet to plug in to.  Some have one cord and some have 2, one for the light and one for the pump.  Please call us at 1-888-881-4668 to talk about the wall fountain that best suits you.

How do I decide what size wall fountain or free standing fountain I should be looking for?

There are many options when it comes to large fountains.  You will first want to measure the total space you have for the fountain, be sure to consider height, width and depth.  Wall fountains come in standard sizes or we can do any custom size wall or floor standing fountain that you wish.  If you have some flexibility a standard product in the wall fountain section might be just the fit for you.  If you wish to go custom, visit the custom fountain section for some great examples.

View entire Water Fountain Guide for answers to your fountain questions.