A little physics to start with
In fact, you can also build fountains without electric pumps - the numerous, partly still functional fountains from the 17th and 18th centuries prove it. However, such systems - such as in Versailles - were not possible without a huge effort, because in order to get the water to bubble meters high, it first had to fall from a great height - after all, water only flows when there is a gradient - where it finally does had to be transported up again. In Versailles, for example, this was done by a water-powered water hoist, which lifted the masses to a height of 160 meters. Of course, you cannot create such an effort in your own garden, nor can other physical gimmicks be transferred to a garden fountain.
also read
- Build mini fountains with clay pots yourself - that's how it works
- Successful garden design with a fountain
- Keeping the water in the fountain clean - this is how it works
Select the right pump
The alternative is that you cannot build a (permanently) functioning fountain without an electric pump. Submersible pumps are wonderfully suitable for most applications. There are different types with different flow rates that determine how high the pump can spray the water. The nozzle also has a further influence on the water jet. There are different types of nozzles with different jet effects that can be placed on the opening of a submersible pump.
Install the electric pump
Water and electricity are always a combination that shouldn't be taken lightly in terms of safety. However, low-voltage pumps are not suitable for larger jump pumps due to their limited performance and can therefore only be used for smaller water elements. Solar powered pumps are another option, but the acquisition costs are quite high and the performance is very inconsistent due to changing weather conditions. To install a fountain pump, you must run a power cord through a conduit pipe to protect it from damage. You lay this pipe under the floor, a deck or slabs.
Tips
A pump can also be operated in other ways without electricity: for example using solar or wind energy. If you can use a stream or other flowing water for the fountain, try the so-called ram pump. This was still very widespread until 150 years ago, but has almost been forgotten today.
