Fountain Buying Guide |
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Glossary of Terms
Resin/AcrylicTechnically - "Any of numerous physically similar polymerized synthetics or chemically modified natural resins including thermoplastic materials such as polyvinyl, polystyrene, and polyethylene and thermosetting materials such as polyesters, epoxies, and silicones that are used with fillers, stabilizers, pigments, and other components to form plastics." Courtesy of www.Dictionary.com.
SlateA fine-grained metamorphic rock that splits into thin, smooth-surfaced layers. No two pieces of slate are the same and all have different color variations.
StoneRock in all its forms. Pure and simple.
MetalSteel, Stainless steel, tin, etc.
CopperA beautiful orange-red metal material known for its luster and natural properties. While most metals "rust" - copper actually "patinas" or turns colors while still maintaining its strength. If the copper is left untreated, it will patina and eventually turn into differing shades of green. Also, whenever handling copper, make sure to either wear gloves or use a towel. The acid and oils from your fingertips will leave patina "fingerprints" on the copper surface.
Ceramic/GlassCeramic/Glass is any nonmetallic hard, brittle, heat-resistant and corrosion-resistant material made by shaping and then firing, such as clay or sand.
WoodAll different varieties - cedar, pine, oak, maple, aspen, etc. Most commonly found in barrel fountains.
FoggerA device used in certain fountains to create a hazy, fog-like mist. Besides added humidity it serves no purpose other than for added effect.
Nature SoundsThis is an added feature to some Homedic's table top fountains. All fountains with this option generally have the sounds of thunder, loon, wind chimes, rain forest, sunrise, and summer night.
Water Clarifier (Fountain Protector)A definite "must" to help keep water clean from stains, algae, sludge, mineral deposits and other organic contaminants. Can be used either indoors or out. Always make sure to read the label first for proper usage and to make sure it is safe for birds, animals, plants and aquatic life.
Distilled WaterWater that has been purified by distillation. The preferred water choice for indoor fountains. This type of water does not build up calcium and other mineral deposits on the fountain and in the pump.
Care & Cleaning
General CareFor indoor fountains - the most important thing you can do is always use distilled water. Otherwise, the calcium and minerals from your water will cause a build-up in the pump and on the fountain. For outdoor fountains - you can use standard water to fill the reservoir, but always make sure you are also using some type of water clarifier or algae preventer to reduce any type of build-up of algae or lime. On all fountains - never let your pump run dry. This causes the pump to burn out quickly and this is not covered under your fountain warranty. Depending on your climate and whether your fountain is indoors or out - the evaporation rate will dictate how often you need to refill your fountain.
Winter CareThe winter always brings dramatic swings in temperatures. If you live in areas where winters are harsh, it is important to drain your water fountain and store it or cover it during the winter months. Also, if possible, bring your pump into a basement, or garage. If any water gets into your fountain or pump and repeatedly freezes and thaws - it has the potential to crack any material, including concrete. Always read the operator's instructions found with your water fountain order.
CleaningMost manufacturers suggest that you wipe your water fountain down with a clean cloth to remove any accumulated dirt or dust. This will keep your water fountain looking new at all times. In addition, you should change the water periodically; consult your water fountain's operator's instructions. In areas where dust or lots of blowing leaves are common, a more frequent cleaning of your water fountain will be necessary to keep the pump clear of debris.
Troubleshooting
What do I do if my fountain is splashing?Fountains splash for a variety of reasons. First, if your fountain comes with a splash guard, adjust it. Second, you may have overfilled your fountain with water. When water hits water it will splash. If the water line is at the top of the reservoir it will more than likely splash out onto your table or floor. Third, you may need to regulate the water flow of your pump. Unplug your pump and look at where the water is sucked into the pump. In this area there will be some type of regulator. This is generally a plastic disk that is turned to block some of the water going into the pump. This will slow down the force at which the water flows through your pump. It is similar to turning down the force of a faucet and thereby having less splashing. Last, make sure your fountain is level. Any type of slant or angle may cause the water level to shift and then splash as the falling water hits it.
My pump is noisy. How do I quiet it down?Some manufacturers recommend using a piece of Scotchbrite or sponge underneath the pump to dampen the vibrations. Be sure all the connections for your water fountain are secure to prevent air from escaping and causing noise. Also make sure that the pump is completely submerged under water.
Water isn't flowing through the tubes.Check for kinks in the tubing throughout your water fountain systems. Make sure the pump output nozzle is inserted properly, the water fountain pump is completely submerged and the power is switched on the "on" position. Make sure that the water fountain has an adequate amount of water.
The water isn't flowing evenly across the surface.The main cause of water not flowing evenly across the surface is because the fountain is not level on the wall or surface. When lining up your fountain on the wall, make sure you use a level to ensure it is hung properly and evenly. If you have a slate wall fountain, not only is it important to level the fountain, but it is equally important to spray the surface of the slate with distilled water before turning on the fountain. This helps the water flow more evenly across the surface. Also, if the water collects at a small reservoir at the top of the fountain, run your finger along the edge where the water falls over and down. This breaks the surface water beads and allows the water to flow over the edge more evenly and therefore fall more evenly.
