All 176 fountains of the famous Peterhof operate without an external source of energy. How do these amazing hydraulic structures function? And is it possible to build on your own? personal plot a similar fountain without a pump with your own hands? Just think: such an elegant design of a recreation area - and absolutely no costs for purchasing equipment, worries about the possibility of theft in the absence of the owners, or increased bills for electricity consumption! Is this fiction or reality?
All this beauty was created without participation pumping equipment
Is a perpetual motion machine possible - how and with what to replace the pump in a fountain
The Peterhof fountain complex operates through a multi-level system of locks and pools fed by the Ropshinsky springs. Not every site can boast of a good location next to natural source. But you shouldn’t give up the idea of creating a home fountain without a pump with your own hands.
A patient applicant will be helped in achieving his goal by studying the diagram with Heron’s fountain (Fig. Scheme 2). This is exactly what engineering structure, discovered in ancient times, will form the basis of the future decorative stream. To implement the design in real conditions, it is worth considering it in more detail.
The principle of operation of the fountains of Peterhof Park - diagram 1
The principle of creating a fountain without a pump with your own hands - diagram 2
The diagram shows three containers (A, B and C), located one below the other and connected to each other by a system of tubes. Containers B and C are completely sealed, while Container A is an open bowl that serves as a catch basin. It is connected to vessel B by an airtight tube, and in the same way vessel B is connected to C. Another sealed tube connects vessels A and C. Before starting work, container C is empty, while A and B are filled with water. In this position the system is in equilibrium.
As soon as it is broken (for example, a little more water is added to bowl A), the liquid begins to flow into container C, pushing out air from there and thereby increasing the air pressure in container B. Due to overpressure water from the middle vessel flows into container A, and the fountain begins to function.
Thus, due to the height difference H1, the jet height H2 is created. To make it maximum, you need to make the entire structure higher, increasing the distance H1. For long-term operation of the fountain, it is important to select very thin connecting tubes, but as soon as all the water from the middle vessel flows into the lower one, the water will stop flowing.
Practical implementation of ancient knowledge about hydraulics
In the picture everything looks quite simple. However, in reality, a genius engineer trying to implement it faces an obstacle: such a fountain does not have a closed system, like a fountain with a pump, which means its operation quickly stops. In addition, its design is not completely autonomous: after a short period of time it is necessary to remove water from the lower vessel and pour it into the upper one.
Fountains without a pump do not “know how” to maintain multiple operating cycles of the watercourse
Preparatory work - choosing a location and necessary materials
First of all, you should take care of the area where the energy-independent fountain is located. Its weak spot is the purity of the watercourse. Therefore, you definitely shouldn’t build a mini-stream near trees and bushes. The optimal location is near the flower bed. In case of water overflow, the fountain will perform useful work, saving owners from having to irrigate the soil every night.
In addition, in order for the above principle to work in a specific place (at the dacha) and under specific conditions (lack of external energy sources), several important conditions must be met:
- select the volume of vessels that provides satisfactory operating time;
- create tightness of containers and their connection points;
- arrange them in a structure whose dimensions will give the desired jet height.
If the durability of an artificial watercourse is not important, bottles from under drinking water
Since the fountain is planned to be placed outdoors, the volume of the vessels should be about 5 liters. This amount of water will ensure continuous operation of the fountain for 40–50 minutes. It is better if the containers are made of polycarbonate plastic: holes can be easily made in it, for example, with a hot nail.
It is possible to borrow connecting tubes from a dropper. The optimal material for ensuring an enclosed space in plastic bottles is tight lids, similar to those used to close wine during fermentation. Before installing the system, you need to check the availability silicone sealant.
Step-by-step instructions for installing a garden fountain without a pump
After preparation, you can begin the main work in the following sequence:
Video: How to make a fountain without a pump
Video: Laboratory version of a mini fountain without a pump
Decorative design of the structure
Make the fountain attractive appearance becomes a priority immediately after installation. Indeed, in its original form, the design is more associated with an experimental installation than with an exquisite element landscape design. Hiding the “pitfalls” by leaving only the upper part is not so easy - the device is raised quite high above ground level.
What can you think of in this case? Before making a fountain in the country without a pump, at the site of its installation you can prepare a platform in advance, deepened by 20–30 cm and carefully compacted. This will slightly reduce the height of the fountain, and therefore the area that needs to be decorated.
From the front side, flat stones look great, stacked on top of each other and fastened together with a metal base. It’s good if you can adjust the fountain jet so that it naturally falls on them. A wall made of aged brick and interspersed with greenery is another way to create a landscape that is pleasing to the eye.
No one will guess that a small fountain system is hidden behind a neat stone slide.
No matter how your imagination works, you should not refuse if there is an opportunity to consult a professional designer.
And finally important point: during the design process, it is recommended not to forget to leave free access to all elements of the fountain, so that at any time you can “start it” and enjoy the music of the water.
For any owner, the appearance of a summer cottage or yard has great value. Its design can be done by specialists, but, if desired, you can do it yourself. A fountain will be a successful decoration for a yard or area. It can also be built according to your own design.
Types of fountains
There are fountains for dachas different types. They are divided into types: by design, by appearance, by operating features, etc. According to the method of construction, country fountains are divided into circulation and flow, they are also called “Roman”.
Did you know? The first fountains appeared in Ancient Greece and in Ancient Rome.
Circulating suggest the water cycle. Water fills a certain reservoir (bowl, vase, reservoir) and is supplied with the help of a pump to a device from which a stream of water directly shoots out.
Everything is arranged in such a way that the outgoing water enters the reservoir and is pumped upward again. Thus, the device does not require water supply from a water supply system or a well. The only thing that is necessary is to add water to a certain mark, since it tends to evaporate or splash.
Flow fountains are arranged using water supply (well) and sewerage. Water flows upward, falls down and goes into the sewer. The method is, of course, irrational, but Such fountains have a number of advantages:
- aesthetic appearance;
- drinking water;
- the possibility of using water for watering lawns, flower beds, shrubs and trees.
Did you know? Tallest fountain in the world- 312 m. It's called a fountain« Fahda» , is located in Saudi Arabia.
Choosing a suitable location
If you decide to build a fountain on the site with your own hands, then, first of all, choose a suitable place for this. If there is a pond or a pond in the country, the choice of location is obvious. Where the pond is located, there will be a fountain. The structure of the pond, of course, will have to be modified and adjusted, but the foundation will remain.
If you are starting from scratch, then you need to choose a place, carefully weighing all the pros and cons. DIY garden fountains perform different functions: they humidify the air in the garden, which is good for trees, create cool conditions, can be used for irrigation, etc.
For this reason, you need to choose a place so that the fountain not only brings aesthetic pleasure, but is also useful. A suitable place for arrangement would be open area between trees, bushes or hedges.
Trees and bushes should not hang over a pond or reservoir to prevent debris from falling into the water and leaves falling. This is harmful to water filters. Also, due to the proximity of trees, and therefore their root system, the underground part of the fountain may be disrupted or even destroyed. If your dacha has plants that cannot tolerate waterlogging, arrange the fountain away from them.
Important! Do not place the fountain near buildings.
There is no need to set up the structure in the open sun, as this can lead to water blooms. There is one more condition: a fountain in the country, made by yourself, must be in harmony with the overall design. Everything should be done in the same style. This should be an area that is clearly visible from the windows of the house and from any part of the yard, because you are building a fountain, first of all, for aesthetic pleasure.
Preparation of materials for construction
When a place for a fountain and its type have been chosen, a project has been developed, you need to determine what materials will be needed for construction. Let’s assume that the project is designed for a circulating jet static fountain with a single release of water, i.e., the “Geyser” type.
At home, to set up a fountain with your own hands, you will need cement, sand, crushed stone, durable polyethylene film and a construction façade mesh the size of the diameter of the structure (both the film and the mesh must be the same size). In addition, you need plastic container volume of about 50-70 liters, depending on the size of the structure.
If you plan to decorate everything with stones, then prepare them right away. It could be wild stone the right size, cobblestones, granite, large pebbles, etc. To ensure proper operation, you will need a fountain pump.
Pump selection criteria
Depending on the type of fountain you need to choose a pump. For a “waterfall” we would choose a surface pump, and since we have a traditional fountain, we choose a submersible one.
As a rule, submersible pumps perform their function perfectly. They are compact, quiet, easy to install and, importantly, affordable. Submersible pumps come in different capacities. It is calculated in the amount of water pumped per 1 hour (l/h). 
The height of the jet will depend on the power of the pump. Maximum height calculated based on the diameter of the “foot” you made. Pump in in this case There is no need to choose according to the principle “the more powerful, the better.” For the arrangement, we need one so that the jet is high enough and so that the spray does not fly beyond the “foot.” For a summer residence, the jet height is suitable from 80 cm to 1 m.
Important! It is necessary to ensure that water does not splash outside the fountain. Excessive humidity can lead to the death of plants and damage to things.
Manufacturers, as a rule, provide in the instructions a table of the relationship between power and jet height. Since we are equipping the Geyser, such a device will require a pump with a capacity of about 7000 l/h.
Installation principle of the pumping system
Pumping system installed 10 cm above the bottom on a stand (laid brick or mounting cabinet). A hose or pipe with water supply is connected to it. Usually the sprinkler comes complete with a pump, but if you don’t have one, you can make it yourself.
To do this, you can take a regular stainless steel pipe. The diameter will depend on the height of the jet and the diameter of the water spray. For a small fountain of 0.8-1.0 m, a diameter of 2-2.5 inches will be sufficient. The length will depend on how deep the pump is immersed. It is enough to leave 10-15 cm above the water. 
To give the stream a shape, you can flatten the pipe, roll it, leaving a hole, drill several holes, or cut a thread and screw on the desired nozzle. Connect to the pump directly or via an adapter (if necessary).
Installation of a fountain. Step by step instructions
Master class on installing a fountain in a country house with your own hands step by step photos easy to find on the Internet. Typically, installation takes place in several stages.
Every owner of a suburban area strives to make his home and the space around it as comfortable as possible and at the same time beautiful. After all, a well-designed landscape design is not only a decoration of a summer cottage, but also harmonious combination different zones in one area. How nice it is to have dinner in the gazebo with your family after a hard day, or to relax on a bench in the hot summer, enjoying the coolness of the fountain. This is exactly what we will talk about in our article, and more specifically, how to make a fountain with your own hands.
Advantages
Most would agree with the statement of psychologists that the sound of water has a calming effect on the nervous system. A person watching the flow of water internally relaxes and gains emotional balance. You can sit by the fountain for hours, watch its play and splashes, and think about your own thoughts.
There is nothing complicated in the design, so almost anyone can install a fountain in their dacha with their own hands - you just need to have the desire and the necessary materials. We will also consider the latter in our article. 
The incomparable advantage of the fountain is that it can be an excellent addition to the landscape design of any suburban area. Besides, homemade fountain with the right lighting it will become your guests’ favorite place to relax.
Depending on your preferences and the general style of landscape design, the design of the fountain is selected, just take into account the size: if the area is small, then it is better for you to install a small garden fountain with your own hands. 
How does this work?
The device uses the principle of circular water supply. In other words, initially a certain amount of water is poured into the reservoir (bowl), which, using a pump, then circulates throughout the entire structure. There is a nozzle above the surface of the bowl, to which water is supplied. To prevent the bowl from overflowing, a special device is installed in it to regulate the amount of water.
This is a generalized diagram that describes the simplicity of the design. Therefore, having installed a fountain in your dacha, you don’t need to think about the fact that water consumption in the area will increase. Just fill in the required volume of water once and from time to time just check the degree of contamination. Even though the pump has a filter, the water should still not be too dirty. 
Choosing a place
Of course, before installing a fountain with your own hands, it is necessary to at least visually determine the most suitable place for him. Better yet, draw a plan in order to have a specific idea of the location of the structure and take into account all the nuances in advance. We offer you several practical advice by choice of location:
- The structure should be visible from anywhere on your site and not block the paths.
- If there is a gazebo or summer kitchen, then a cozy do-it-yourself fountain will be an ideal addition to such a recreation area. If you have a playground, you can make a mini fountain nearby with your own hands - children will be happy to splash in it in the summer.
- Study the topography of your site and find a low-lying place - it is best suited for installing a fountain on the site with your own hands - in the warm season it will be cool and comfortable here.
- The presence of trees nearby is not the most in the best possible way will affect the operation of your fountain - roots can damage part of the structure underground, and falling leaves can clog the water. At the same time, too open a space in direct sunlight can cause water to “bloom.”
- It is best to install the structure away from the house, since gusts of wind can blow the stream of water to the side, causing the walls to be constantly wet.
Varieties
Surely many have noticed that the fountains differ in appearance not only in design, but also in design. Some are made in the form of reservoirs with nozzles, others are on a stand in the shape of jugs, statues and other devices from which water flows.
Accordingly, fountains come in two types:
- submersible;
- stationary.
The first option has simple design and is often found on suburban areas and even in houses. To make a similar home fountain with your own hands, you will need a bowl, plastic pipe, pump and nozzle.
Stationary have more complex design and pompous appearance. Such devices can often be found in city parks and squares. For this option, you already need to lay the foundation, since the body is made mainly of stone or marble - durable materials that are resistant to aggressive weather conditions. 
For large plot with an area of ten to twenty square meters, a large stationary fountain is suitable; for a small area, it is best to install a submersible one. Well, the style of landscape design also dictates its own rules: for Japanese garden, for example, a submersible type is suitable.
Construction design
As we noted earlier, design style also plays an important role. After all, all elements of landscape design should complement each other and be in harmony with each other. The most common option is the classic submersible jet fountain. Its construction does not require large financial and physical costs, and it will look advantageous in any design. Especially if you want to complement an artificial pond with it. If you want to see options for what do-it-yourself fountains for a garden might look like, we presented a photo of the idea at the end of the article. 
The shape of the bowl is most often symmetrical - it is either a circle or a square. You can put it around the edges decorative stone or pebbles, add greenery. Only the plants must be moisture-loving, otherwise the appearance of the composition will be hopelessly spoiled by rotting plants. 
Required materials
Before you make a decorative fountain with your own hands, you should take care of the materials and tools for construction in advance. If you want to make a stone fountain, then you will need the following materials:
- smooth round and flat stones of different sizes;
- gravel or crushed stone for drainage;
- water bowl;
- pump;
- copper tube;
- coupling;
- small diameter plastic pipe;
- silicone;
- boards to strengthen the structure.
In accordance with the above materials, you will need the following tools:
- hammer;
- jigsaw or small saw;
- scissors;
- fum tape;
- drill;
- sliding key.
Depending on the desired decoration method, you may need additional materials and tools. Here you can get your bearings on the situation or make a list of necessary items for work in advance, so as not to be distracted during the process. 
Pump installation
Undoubtedly, the main and important detail The whole structure is a pump. If you are a beginner and don’t yet know how to build a fountain at your dacha with your own hands, listen to our advice: you need to approach the choice of pump thoroughly. First, consider the volume of the bowl - the larger it is, the more powerful the pump will be required. The presence of a filter will protect it from various debris and extend its service life. 
There are two types:
- surface;
- submersible
The first type is installed on the surface, but in no case above the water level. The principle of communicating vessels works here.
It is advisable to install the submersible pump not at the very bottom of the bowl, but at some elevation - then sediment will not fall into the filter. Keep in mind that the pump will consume electricity, so make the necessary communications in advance and provide a shield for safety. 
Even if it is not possible to install electric pump, don’t be upset - next we’ll tell you how to make a fountain in your dacha without one.
Design without pump
Without a submersible pump, you can make an open fountain. If you have a well with a pump on your site, you can remove this water through a pipe into a fountain. The only thing you will need to decide is where the water will flow - for example, you can simultaneously turn on the fountain and water nearby plants.
Thus, you can create mini fountains for your garden with your own hands at several points on your site. 
Exterior design
Of course, you shouldn’t forget about the end result of your work. The appearance of the finished structure should please the eye, and the lighting will allow you to enjoy the beauty of the fountain in the evening. We offer you some decorating tips:
- You can use a variety of nozzles: the shape of the jet will depend on their shape. It can be in the form of a dome, an umbrella, or even a geyser.
- Properly selected lighting will add zest and mystery to the pond. Light sources can be installed not only around the perimeter of the fountain, but also under water. And it’s not at all necessary to use standard options– the multi-colored glow of the water will definitely fascinate any viewer.
- Use flowers and shrubs to decorate the pond - they will create the impression of a truly “paradise” corner.
We invite you to see how beautifully decorated garden fountains are with your own hands, photos of which are below.
Ideas and important little things
There are many photographs of country fountains on the Internet, and methods for their construction are described. You can also find enough information on how to make a home fountain with your own hands. Yes, yes, such mini-devices look very original and complement the interior. Such designs are especially popular among supporters of Feng Shui. Of course, the process of their construction is much simpler and cheaper - and their dimensions are quite small. 
If you still have a desire, but don’t know how to make a fountain at home, we will help you make a choice and give you a few useful tips:
- If there is no space on the site, a fountain can be made even at home - in the hallway, for example, or in the greenhouse. Its dimensions can be completely different - depending on your desires and the available space.
- A submersible fountain can be made from available materials - the bowl can be an old cast-iron bathtub or a bathtub cut lengthwise car tire, large flower pot, wide basin.
- The stationary version can be made in the form of a jug, bottles, stones, in the middle of which there is a water hose - this is also great option For homemade design.
- The fountain does not have to be placed separately - it can be part of a wall or landscape composition.
- The cascade fountain is a stationary type, and has an undeniable advantage - such a structure can become the fruit of even the wildest imagination. The matter may be limited not only to traditional pots from which water flows and overflows, but also to entire structures in the form of garden carts, teapots, samovars, watering cans with buckets, etc.
- Fountain elements can be painted in various colors, often use special treatment compounds to prevent the appearance of moss and mold.
And, of course, you shouldn’t forget about maintenance - with the onset of cold weather, you need to turn off the fountain, drain the water from it and cover the entire structure with film until it warms up. In this case, your little country oasis will delight all household members and guests with its joyful murmur for many years to come.
Photo gallery
We present to your attention a successful selection of 30 photo ideas for do-it-yourself fountain design.
Even if the pond on your site is small, it can make a good contribution to the improvement of your territory. And if you decide to build a fountain with your own hands, it will be interesting. This will not only be a place for leisure, but you will also receive a mountain of praise from friends, acquaintances and neighbors.
However, not everyone wants to take on such an idea, because they think that the construction of such hydraulic device very expensive and labor-intensive, and also requires specialist intervention. If you want to know how to make a fountain at home, then we want to please you that anyone can afford to build a fountain with their own hands at home, you just need to know all the aspects of design and construction. In this article we will look at how to make a fountain.
Types of fountains
Due to the type of construction, products are divided into two types:
- Open fountain. As a rule, in such buildings water is supplied to a nozzle. The jet is formed due to the fact that there are differences in water levels. Here you need to monitor the water level, and the water quickly becomes dirty. In order to create such a pressure, you need to raise the container a meter from the nozzle.
- Pumping fountain. This is the most common design option. Here the pump is placed on the bottom, creating a constant water cycle. In structures of this type, the pressure is quite strong and visually looks more beautiful.
Multi-level fountain Based on the type of pump, fountains are divided into submersible and stationary.
- Submersible pump. It is placed at the bottom of the pond. With the help of a pipeline, water rises to the surface, and the nozzle creates a certain form of flow. In this version, water seems to erupt from the ground.
- A stationary fountain is usually built from stones in the form of a figure, the shape of which can be any to your taste. Such structures are installed in a park or square, as they are a kind of art.
Ideas for a fountain (video)
Where to install the fountain
When choosing optimal location for construction, it is important to take into account such a factor as the slope of the ground. If the surface on the site is uneven, then it is better to install the structure at the bottom. This will make it easier to adjust the volume of groundwater, and will also increase the oxygen saturation of the air.
Install the fountain where it will be convenient to admire it It is not recommended to build a fountain:
- Near the house, since in a strong wind water will fall on the house itself.
- In an area with a direct hit sun rays, which will contribute to the rapid flowering of water.
- Under a tree, as fallen leaves or overgrown roots can damage the product.
The fountain must be placed so that it does not interfere with movement around the yard, but on the other hand, so that it can be clearly seen from different sides. We advise you to place it near the place of leisure.
The smallest distance that should be between the structure itself and green spaces is 0.5 m. Thus, the plants will be protected from large amounts of moisture. The same principle applies to furniture near a water feature. The most optimal location structures - a place in the shade and without wind, near water and an electrical network. This will save you effort and material costs.
After we have decided where the fountain will be, we can begin its construction or what the shape and depth of the building will be Construction materials
To save money and power costs, it is possible to build a pond with a pump placed in it.
Materials for building a fountain:
- Capacity
- Pump
- Water insulator
- Shovel
- Stone different sizes
- Decor elements
How to select and install a container
In the case of a small fountain, a regular small basin can serve as a reservoir. For a larger option, you can use a bathtub or a pit dug by yourself. When using a bathtub, you need to dig a hole so that its edges are below ground level. First, all the holes in the container are closed, then it goes down into the hole, where it needs to be strengthened with stones and earth.
If you want to dig your tank, use film for this. It, in turn, must be dense and of high quality. In a dug hole, the film is pressed against stones. Stones also line the bottom. They should not be sharp, as this may damage the film. They need to be distributed equally over the entire bottom.
How to choose a pump
To build a fountain, it is not necessary to buy expensive materials, since you can use elements used on the farm. But you don’t need to save on buying a pump, since the quality of the pump determines how long it will work without problems, and the more beautiful the end result will be.
Most optimal choice for the construction is use submersible pump. But if you have a large or cascading fountain, installing surface pump The main indicator when purchasing a pump is its power. If the water pressure in your fountain is low, then you do not need to buy a powerful pump. It is important to know that the power corresponds to the diameter of the pipe, and the pressure must be strong, otherwise it will be the result of an unsuccessful fountain.
Construction of a fountain
The construction of the fountain consists of five stages:
- Digging a pit
- Strengthening the trench
- Securing the tank or installing the film
- Pump installation
- Fountain decor
Now let's look at some options for building a fountain with your own hands.
Examples of fountain construction
Using a tire
For this we will need
- An old used tire, for example from a tractor
- Cement, water, crushed stone and sand
- Concrete mixing tool
- Film
- Level
- Stones of various sizes
- Mastic or silicone
- Pump
Tire fountain covered with stones Sequence of actions:
- Preparing concrete solution.
- Pour the solution onto the bottom 10 cm high and level it using a level.
- After the solution has dried, place the tire on the bottom, having previously cut off the sidewall on one side.
- Using mastic or silicone, glue the tire to the base.
- Concrete is poured along the edge of the tire, thereby strengthening the structure.
- Place the pump in the center of the tire.
- We decorate the fountain. Using a tire
Using film
For this type of fountain you will need:
- Thick film
- Shovel
- Sand
- Pump
- Stones of different sizes
Fountain in a pond made of film Sequence of actions:
- First, you need to dig a pit, remove everything unnecessary from the hole, for example, stones, and tamp the bottom.
- Next you need to fill the pit with sand.
- The next thing to do is lay down the film. We lay it so that the edge extends beyond the hole. Then we press the film with stones along the contour of the pond.
- Then we install the pump depending on its type and instructions.
- We decorate the almost completed work of art to suit your taste.
- We fill the pond with water.
Using an old bathtub
For this case, you need to have in stock:
- Shovel
- Stones
- Pump
- Bath
- Insulation tape
- Metal scissors
- Sheet metal
- Drill
Fountain from an old bathtub Sequence of actions:
- We dig a hole according to the size of the bathtub.
- We lower the bathtub into the hole and plug all the holes.
- You need to cut wide strips from a sheet of metal and lay them around the perimeter of the bathtub, pressing it down with stones.
- You can place decorative crushed stone in the bath itself.
- We install the pumping system.
- It is possible to install a backlight and change the color of the water using blue. Thanks to this, the bath will not be noticeable.
- We decorate our design.
Using a plastic bottle
For such a fountain, so to speak, you need to have:
- Plastic bottle
- Gvozdik
- Insulating tape
- Garden hose
Practicality in everything! Sequence of actions:
- Remove all stickers from the bottle.
- Punch holes in the bottle with a hot nail.
- We install the hose in the bottle and wrap it tightly with tape.
- We place our structure in the planned location and turn on the pressure.
This mini fountain is suitable for watering your vegetable garden.
Home Decorative Fountain
For this we need:
- flower pot
- Glass paint
- Pump
- Outlines
- Decoration for aquarium
Fountain from a flower pot Sequence of actions:
- We paint the pot with paints.
- Make a small hole at the bottom of the pot.
- We mount a pump under the pot stand.
- We pass the tube through the hole made.
- We put pebbles on the bottom.
- We make decoration.
- Fill the container with water.
Decor
Decorating your fountain will further highlight how unique it is. You can put natural stones next to the pond, you can even different colors, expose indoor plants, put various figures of toys or animals, etc.
Illumination of the structure can amaze your guests with its originality. This is done using special equipment. Lamps are placed around the perimeter of the structure, and lighting is installed at the bottom.
Plants and decor for the fountain Aquatic plants can be placed at the bottom of the reservoir, and shrubs can be planted around it.
Fountain care
After you make a fountain at home, it will, of course, need to be well looked after. In order to maintain order, the water to be clear, and the building to have a pleasant appearance, it is important to constantly clean the container. Using special devices, you can remove leaves and similar things from the pond that can spoil the water and also damage the equipment.
When summer season ends, you will need to drain the water from the reservoir, remove the equipment into the room, and cover the rest with oilcloth to protect it from dirt.
Making a fountain with your own hands on a summer cottage or in your apartment is not so difficult and does not require large material expenditures. Before erecting a structure, you need to find out what its shape, size and location will be. You can place it anywhere - in your garden or near the gazebo. Subsequently, the fountain needs to be well looked after - monitor the cleanliness and water level, and also remove fallen leaves.
This type of structure is often installed in summer cottages. A fountain can decorate any free area or become its oasis. If you use your imagination and use various elements decor, the fountain will look even better and more original.
How to install a fountain in your garden (video)
It seems that the days are gone when Russians’ summer cottages and private courtyards consisted exclusively of an area with laid out beds and planted trees and shrubs. Modern garden plot, large private yard or a tiny backyard within an urban home can become a work of landscape art. Beautiful flower beds, neat garden paths, barbecue areas, swings and gazebos – there are plenty of options for arranging even modest-sized yards. But according to the Japanese - great specialists in creating ideal landscape design - for a harmonious environment in your yard or summer cottage, three components must be present: plants, stones and water. It is the introduction of a source of water into the arrangement local area will be the subject of this publication. Let's look at possible options for creating a fountain on a summer cottage or in a personal plot, within a small courtyard or a huge local area.
Types of fountains for landscape design of a site
The generally accepted opinion that a fountain in a summer cottage is expensive, labor-intensive and generally troublesome has long been unfounded. Organize a source with constantly circulating water on our own It’s not difficult if you approach the issue with care and accuracy. Well, there are so many ready-made options in modern stores that you can get confused.
Choosing a fountain, like any device for decorating a local area, requires precise calculations and the correct selection of shapes, sizes and materials. Before you go to the store or the Internet in search of videos with master classes on making a fountain with my own hands, you need to decide what kind of fountains there are and how they differ from each other.
This type of fountain can be considered the simplest in terms of design and installation. The peculiarity of the submersible mechanism is that the jet shoots directly from the water. But this option requires the presence or creation of a small reservoir - artificial pond or a large bowl of water that is immersed in the soil. The submersible version of the fountain is one of the least expensive. It is enough to select a suitable spray nozzle that forms a jet and fix the hose from the pump. There is no need to install additional technical devices.
These are the designs we imagine most often when we talk about fountains in parks and squares. This type of fountain requires the presence of some decorative elements that imitate a water source. A stationary fountain for a summer house or private courtyard can use jets, sculptures or their compositions, and various elements of landscape decor.
The design of a stationary fountain itself is somewhat more complex than a submersible type mechanism, but it also looks like this decorative element landscape design is more respectable and effective. This is especially true in cases where it was possible to find a fountain model that fits the overall design concept of the site (or make it yourself).
Among the many models of stationary fountains, products made from polymer material, which perfectly imitates natural stone. Products made from polystone look like models made from natural stone, but at the same time they are significantly cheaper, lightweight and easy to install and operate.
Fountains made of polystone can be either one object or a composition of several elements - there are countless options. In any case, the material is not subject to rotting or deformation, and is able to withstand jets of water even under fairly high pressure.
Fountains in which water flows over the main element or a whole composition of objects look stylish, modern and creative. It seems that the stone itself is a source of moisture. Meanwhile, water flows through a hose, which is located in the center of the hole of the boulder (or any other decorative element).
Fountain-waterfall “falling water”
Not fewer varieties fountains that imitate both jets and water falling from something like a waterfall. In such a combined composition, the fountain jets, rising upward, do not easily fall back into the water, but end up on a cascade of stones or stepped decorative elements.
Making a fountain with your own hands
So, you have decided on the type of fountain and are ready to get to work. But wait until you dig the pit. Folk wisdom It’s not for nothing that it says “measure seven times, cut once.” You need to carefully plan your actions, do necessary calculations, carry out a number of preparatory work.
Choosing a place for a fountain
A successful choice of area for the location of the fountain is an important item on the to-do list for arranging the local area. After all, we do not want to decorate the site, but to create an atmosphere of peace and comfort, in which the sound of running water will allow you to relax and forget about the hustle and bustle of everyday work. On the one hand, I want the fountain to be in a zone of constant visibility, so that it can be admired from anywhere on the site (but most often this desire is unattainable, because there are buildings, trees and tall bushes on the territory), on the other hand, to be located near the recreation area .
If you are planning to manufacture a submersible fountain, then you need to consider the following nuances:
- the fountain should not be placed directly under a tree or tall bush– falling leaves will not only clog the water, but can also cause pump failure. In turn root system wood can cause destruction of the entire structure;
- a fountain in even a small body of water will cause high humidity and possible damage to the facade if it is located in close proximity to a house or other buildings;
- It is also important to take into account the wind rose in your area, at least the predominant wind direction. If you place a pond with a fountain on the leeward side, then most of the time you will have to clean up garbage rather than enjoy the beauty of the structure and the sounds of flowing water;
- but also absolutely open area yard - not best option for the location of the fountain (especially for regions of our country where summers can be very hot). During the day, light and shadow should replace each other. Otherwise, the water in the tank may become very hot, which will damage the pump. And the water will begin to turn green faster in constantly hot water.
Choosing a bowl for an artificial pond
In this matter, the determining criteria will be the type of fountain and the size of the reservoir being manufactured. In order to optimize the costs and time of making a fountain with your own hands, the easiest way is to choose a ready-made bowl made of composite from the available assortment of stores. A wide range of shapes, sizes and colors will allow you to do this without much effort.
Experts recommend choosing bowls from composite materials, because they do not have temperature deformations. If your pond is small in size and it is not important for you to choose any original form, then it’s better to buy ready-made option. Otherwise, you will have to make the bowl yourself - this is a labor-intensive process that takes a lot of time. But as a result, you will get the ideal vessel for your country pond. This topic is extensive and worthy of a separate publication. But not all elements for the garden fountain have been selected yet.
Choosing a pump for a DIY fountain
The fountain pump must not easily push a stream of water onto the the desired height, as required in a country waterfall or artificial stream, but also push water with the required pressure to a certain height above the surface. Of course, there are formulas for finding the required pump power for a given jet height and optimal hose diameter, but for those who do not want to delve into the details of the calculations, we offer the following list of correspondences:
- for a jet height of 50 cm, the hose diameter is 1.5 cm, and the pump capacity is 1000 l/h;
- for height 100 cm, diameter – 1.5 cm, pump 2000 l/h;
- jet 150 cm, diameter – 2.5 cm, productivity 3000 l/h;
- pressure height 200 cm, hose diameter 2.5 cm, power 5000 l/h;
- for a jet with a height of 300 cm or more, you will need a hose with a diameter of 2.5 cm or more, and a pump with a capacity of 8000 l/h or more (but such designs are used extremely rarely for country landscapes).
There are many varieties of attachments for creating original types jets, they all leave their mark on the choice technical characteristics equipment. In any case, all parameters of the pump will be indicated in its marking, on the box and in technical passport goods. If you want to make a “geyser” type fountain or use original attachments (such as “bell, etc.), then contact the consultants in the store for help.
Decorating a country or garden fountain
Of course, the main criteria for choosing decor for a fountain will be only your imagination and financial capabilities. Although, for many types of decor the costs will be symbolic. For example, if you choose a polystone fountain model, then decor is not needed at all. Such models are most often presented in a fairly laconic design and do not require decorations.
If you want to create the most natural atmosphere, close to the setting, throughout the entire area in general and near the fountain in particular wildlife, then it would be a good idea to adhere to the following simple recommendations:
- to decorate the fountain, use stones of one or maximum two types, because in nature it is rare to find a pile of stones that differ significantly in their aesthetic qualities;
- plants that will be in close proximity to a fountain or located in a pond are best chosen from the class of those for which water or very high humidity is their natural habitat;
- If your artificial pond will be inhabited by fish, then you need to find out in advance whether a particular decorative species is able to calmly tolerate the noise of falling water.
In conclusion
The listed fountain options and the photos suggested for them are only part of the ways to create an original source of water for a summer cottage, a private yard, or just a local area. Fantasies for creating combined models, using non-standard materials there is no limit. Whatever your choice, it is important that any fountain will give your site a special flavor, make the landscape design complete, more harmonious, increase humidity and create a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere in the recreation area (or near it).
Recently, so-called “vertical fountains”, which are literally a “water wall,” have become especially popular. They look stylish, modern and easily fit into almost any landscape design style without taking up much space.
