A Simple Guide To Water Features
Well known for their calming properties, water features create a stunning display in your garden, home and other spaces, such as offices or entrances.
Water features can be used both indoors and outdoors where there is access to electricity. Some are also solar powered, allowing them to stand alone without the need for an electricity supply. Our water features come in a wide range of styles, from modern designs such as the stainless steel sphere or tubes, to more traditional urn style features or pouring bowls.
Types of water feature:
There are many different types of water features but they can be broadly categorised into the following:
Stainless steel - clean and modern, these features look great indoors and outdoors. They are weather resistant and can create a beautiful effect in any space. The reflective surface of the stainless steel means that the effect goes beyond the feature itself, as it will reflect light and mirror the surrounding area.
Resin - polyresin is the material that these features are made from. They create a realistic rock or stone effect and can be moulded into any shape and texture. Resin features are much lighter than their rock counterparts allowing them to be easily moved.
Glass - glass features are usually lit from the inside creating a mesmeric effect when the water and light are combined. Many have colour changing bulbs or LEDs that provide an interesting and soothing atmosphere.
Granite & stone - some water features are made from large pieces of granite or stone and are available with a smooth, polished finish or a rough, natural finish. Many come with lights integrated into the stone for a luminous effect.
Most features require very little installation or maintenance as they are fully self-contained and do not require a permanent water supply - simply plug them in and add water!
Where to place your water feature
Water features can be placed almost anywhere. They usually come with approximately 10m of cable allowing you to install them in a location of your choice. Some traditional features can look best displayed against a wall, or fence for a natural effect whereas some features are designed to be viewed from numerous angles with space around them. With most features being suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, the possibilities are almost endless!
Hints and tips for electrical installation
The low voltage transformer used with many water features is splashproof however, it should be placed in a free draining position. We always recommend the transformer is kept indoors, in an outbuilding or inside a weatherproof box to prolong the life of the transformer.
When the fountain is switched on the transformer may get hot; this is normal.
If connecting your water feature to a mains outlet outside it must be waterproof. We recommend the use of a residual current device (RCD) circuit breaker when connecting the fountain to an electrics supply.
Caring for your fountain
Your water feature maybe the final touch to a re-vamped garden and we would like to make sure that you have years of enjoyment from it.
• Always make sure the fountain reservoir is holding sufficient water in to ensure the pump is fully submerged
• Clean and top the water up on a regular basis
• We recommended using Fountain Fresh to keep the water clean and clear
• To clean the fountain you can use warm water and a cloth
• Always turn the power off to the fountain before carrying out pump maintenance
• Never allow the pump to run dry; this will cause damage and invalidate the warranty
How to look after your water feature when the temperature drops
Like most garden items, your fountain will need protecting from the elements when the weather gets colder.
Never allow ice to form in any part of the feature; as the water expands when it freezes, it will cause cracking and damage to the paintwork. Drain the feature, pouring all the water out from the main reservoir inside the fountain as well as ensuring any tiers or bowls are completely clear. (A tip here if you are struggling to get all the water out, place a towel inside the back and this will soak up excess water). Once drained apply a winter protection cover or for total protection from frost and ice and to and prolong the life of the paint finish, drain the fountain, cover and store indoors. Of course if you live in a location which is susceptible to frost and ice at other times of the year, discretion should be used to ensure suitable protection is provided to prevent damage to your water feature.
The pump should be removed from the fountain and stored in a dry area.
Troubleshooting
We are here to help if you have any questions either before choosing a garden water feature or after making a purchase. A few useful hints and tips and be found below.
The water pump seems to have stopped pumping?
• Check the power is correctly connected.
• Check that there is sufficient water inside the reservoir.
• Check the pump and tubing for any form of obstruction or kink.
• Remove the cover on the side of the pump (the flow adjuster) which will reveal the pump impeller, gently turn the rotor to check that it is not broken or jammed.
The pump is working but the flow doesn’t seem to be enough?
• Make sure the flow regulator on the pump is turned up
• Ensure the pump is fully submerged in water
The pump has started to make a slight rattling noise, what do I need to do?
• Turn off the power supply and check the rota assembly by removing the pump cover and rotor plate front.
• Grip the impellor and gently take out the rotor assembly from the pump. This can then be rinsed with the pump housing to remove any debris or grit.
• If during this process you find any breakage or surface damage is found on the rotor assembly please contact our customer care team.
What guarantee comes with the fountain?
• All our water features come with a 12 month guarantee valid from the date of purchase.