Blue Solar FountainMost people today will not argue that electricity bills are costly. They only seem to be getting higher and higher.  The concern about our climate changes and rising costs more people are looking towards alternative energy sources to power their lives.

Solar power is one of the most economical energy options available today. People may think that alternative energy is just a recent development, but in fact, alternative home energy has been around even before electricity was discovered.

It only makes sense when adding a water feature to your yard or garden that you choose a solar water fountain. They make it easy to install a fountain and get it up and running without the use of an electrical outlet. This makes them some of the most efficient of water features, especially for big fountains or ponds where there might not be any power. Solar power also makes a fountain easy to move from one location to another.

There are different kinds of solar outdoor fountains. The most common type is the small fountain found in many gardens. They come in a lot of unique styles as do standard fountains. Some of the materials used for solar fountains are terra cotta, copper, ceramic, resin and bronze.

Fountains come in the form of a bird baths, frogs, cascades and even cherubs. Some stand on their own pedestal or can be placed on a solid surface. Others can be used to float in a pond or pool. Solar fountains are lovely, a great use of the sun and will beautify any outdoor environment.

One important distinction between models is the placement of the solar panel. Some have panels that are attached and can be picked up and moved easily. They do however; need to be placed in an area where it will get sun all day to work properly. These are great for areas away from the house because you don’t an outlet to plug it in to.  Others have a remote panel that can be placed in a sunnier area and the fountain itself can be placed anywhere, even the shade.

When selecting from among the different solar water fountains available, keep the design of your landscaping in mind. For example, a fountain with a internal panel may not be a good choice for a garden or yard where there is a lot of shade. A remote panel can be put at the edge of the shade, making solar a good power source for such areas. The solar panel can also be mounted to a tree or a wall in a way that does not attract attention. As solar power becomes more popular and advanced, it will likely find more uses in fountain technology, as well.

Solar outdoor fountains are cared for differently than the standard ones but are still very low maintenance.

  • If the solar fountain is not running at its full capacity make sure solar panels are placed in full sunlight most of the day.
  • The strength of the sun’s rays may affect the intensity of the fountains water movement.
  • When the solar panel is separated from the fountain the fountain can be placed anywhere you want it. However, if the panel is part of the fountain the fountain will have to be placed in the sun.
  • Make sure and clean your fountain at least four times a year so the pump will continue working properly.
  • It’s important to remember to keep the proper water level with a solar fountain pump in order for them to work well and have a long life.
  • Remember if you will be away from home for any length of time turn your fountain off.

This nature-friendly way of beautifying our gardens, also helps us to unwind and relax to the sounds of a babbling brook after a long day. Solar fountains are an inexpensive addition to your outdoor environments that you will enjoy for years to come.