FAQs
Another running cost associated with water features is water usage,especially if you are on a metered supply. However – all our water featuresare either designed for pond use or self-contained, which means none ofthem need to be connected to a mains water supply. While they will needtopping up occasionally with fresh water, especially in hot weather whenthe water evaporates quickly, the water use associated with most of ourwater features is minimal.
Please Note: With all water features containing a pump it is important tokeep the water feature topped up when running – this is because the pumpmust remain submerged when switched on. If the pump emerges from thewater due to evaporation, this has the potential to cause damage to thepump and reduce its lifespan.
How much will running a water feature set you back? The amount of electricity a water feature uses is generally dependent on the pump type and size, specifically the wattage of the pump attached to the water feature. On most of our product pages for water features we have the wattage indicated under the specifications.
To calculate how much a water feature will cost to run per hour, simply enter your pence per kWh electricity rate, found on your electricity bill, and times it by the wattage on the product page. For example if we take one of our larger water features, like Almeria or Patagonia we can see it has a low wattage of 12W, so times that by the average electricity rate of roughly 10 – 13c per kWh and we get a cost of around 0.16 cent per hour, or 3 – 4 cent a day if left running constantly. This translates to less than a fan or electric heater, so it does not cost as much as you might think to have the sound of running water going constantly.
Of course, if you opt for a water feature from our solar range, you won’t have to worry about running costs at all!
Solar water features are great in that they are entirely self-contained, however due to their reliance on the sun’s rays, there are certain situation where they won’t run, for example on overcast days or at night. You can extend the period time a solar water feature will function by purchasing one with a battery backup, this can store up to three hours of pump life in the battery, however it is important to note that in order to charge the battery the features must be left in prolonged sunlight for a period of time, so even solar water features with a battery backup may not have much life in the winter months.
You can clean your water feature once a week for cleaning of the mirror or glass with a standard glass cleaner on all surfaces of the waterfall feature. The water feature’s reservoir should be drained once every two to three months depending on water quality in your area and whether the water feature is located inside or outside. After draining, wipe the inside of the reservoir with a clean, wet rag. If you use cleaning agents to remove any dirt and debris from the reservoir, be sure to thoroughly rinse it before refilling with clean water.
Over a period of time hard water may cause the glass to develop a hazy or cloudy film on its surface. Completely draining and replacing the water in the water feature more often will prevent this problem. If the problem continues consider using distilled water. If the glass on your water feature begins to develop a hazy or cloudy film, this is a calcium build up which can also occur on the pump, nozzles or filter.
To remove calcium build-up on glass, we recommend adding CLR or vinegar to a soft cloth to gently work away at the residue. For pumps, nozzles and filters use CLR or white vinegar. To clean a pump, nozzle or filter you must:
- Remove it from the water feature
- Place it in a bucket of half CLR or vinegar
- Allow it to soak overnight
- Scrub off any remaining calcium and rinse in fresh water
If the unit develops an algae problem, you will notice the algae by a sour odour and/or green or brown/black substance. If this occurs, add a pool algaecide to the unit as directed through the reservoir via the rock tray.
Before undertaking filer cleaning, drain the water from the reservoir otherwise during the cleaning process, debris and dirt can end up going into the line and clogging the water feature.
To clean the filter:
- Drain water from reservoir
- Unscrew cap and remove filter
- Clean under tap with bottle brush and running water
- Reassemble the filter then adjust the valve as required
To keep your water feature at its best and to not void your warranty you must:
Daily/Weekly:
Check the water levels to prevent damage to the pump (unless auto top-up system is installed).
Monthly:
Dose the water feature with algaecide. If required, clean stainless steel with a quality stainless steel polish. If required, clean the class with methylated spirits and paper towel. If you notice any calcium deposits (white marks), you can use a white scour pad and some CLR, to remove them.
Every 2-3 Months:
Drain the water feature completely, wipe down reservoir and clean filter as per instructions. Please note that replacing all the water in the water feature once a month will naturally cut back on deposits and possible algae growth. It greatly reduces the need to take a water feature apart for cleaning.
Bubble Panels by nature are designed to be very low on the maintenance that is required to keep them looking as new. A regular water top up should be all that is required. A non-abrasive cloth is all that should be used to clean the exterior window of the panel.
Tabletop fountains can find their place in every room of any home. These essential décor pieces may be small, but they make a huge impact on a space. Whether you are looking for a modern piece for your end table or a small Asian-inspired one for your meditation space you will have no problem finding one you love here.
Floor fountains are unexpected and offer an element of surprise. Plus, they can be placed anywhere there is an electrical outlet and they do not require any mounting. This makes them perfect whether you live in a studio apartment, industrial loft, or a penthouse in a high rise, since mounting a wall variety may be frowned upon if you are a renter in some cases. Most of our fountains have endless options so you can customize your fountain to exactly what you want. We have a variety of floor fountains including glass fountains, mirror fountains, and you can even add your logo to almost any of these! At Fountain Store we carry a diverse selection of floor water features so there is truly something for everyone. If you need to save floor space then you should consider a wall handing fountain instead.
Water panel bubble fountains are a gorgeous type of water features that can be tiny for small spaces or take up entire walls. They are a modern water feature and are commonly seen in fancy restaurants, medical facilities, spas, resorts and hotels, casinos, and thousands of other places. People choose bubble fountains because they require hardly any upkeep, add beauty and uniqueness to an area, and create a calming feeling when watched.
These fountains, both small and large, are created with highly durable acrylic panels and sealed tightly to prevent leakage. Water is inserted and air flows through to create the bubbles. One of the greatest factors about bubble walls is how they can seemingly come in any shape and size, and even have LED systems so you can add color and glow. They have been made into free-standing pillars, flat wall features, table legs (yes, a bubble table!), standing wave-shaped, and much more. You have tons of stock options and can even customize a bubble fountain yourself. Options and designs are endless and after installation, all you have to do is enjoy the view.