Wall Mounted Fountains Tips

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Caring for Wall Water Fountains

Both indoor wall fountains and outdoor garden wall fountains are easy to maintain and with proper installation and care. They will provide pleasure for many years. If possible use distilled water in a wall fountain. It contains no chemicals or minerals to wreak havoc in fountains. If tap water is used, be sure to remove chlorine and other chemicals before pouring it into a fountain.

Most indoor wall fountains require little more than wiping the surfaces with a damp cloth weekly. Clean copper with Pledge and periodically enhance the natural patina with a light coat of quality car wax. Never use copper cleaner, it will remove protective finishes that help prevent tarnish. Monitor water level carefully. Fountain pumps need adequate water to operate and running the pump “dry” will damage it. Sunlight also increases the rate of evaporation and requires extra vigilance to ensure that the pump has the necessary water for optimal operation. And, outdoor wall fountains should also be checked for leaves and debris that clog water intake.

When it is time for a thorough cleaning and preventive maintenance, remove small wall fountain from the wall for cleaning. Siphon water from large fountains and clean them in place per manufacturer's instructions. Helpful hint: File original manufacturer's installation, trouble-shooting tips, parts lists and cleaning instructions. They are a valuable guide for care and maintenance and fountain replacement parts.

   
What should I know about the plumbing for my wall water fountain?

Plumbing Smarts For Your Wall Water Fountain

Confused about how the plumbing works on your wall water fountain? No need to worry. Read our simple explanation and you'll find out the basics you need to know for understanding the plumbing on your wall water fountain.

  • Many wall water fountain models have a submersible pump to re-circulate water in the fountain. Typically, the water travels from the basin, through a delivery pipe, up a spout and then back down into a basin.
  • You can conceal the plumbing of a wall water fountain behind the wall or run it on the surface of the wall.
  • When you can't conceal plumbing that is attached to the wall surface with plants or vines, you can use copper pipe as a substitute connection. Copper eventually develops a patina which will compliment the appearance of the wall water fountain.

   

Inside Scoop on Wall Fountain Installation

When choosing a wall fountain to enhance a particular interior or exterior wall, it is important to “know your wall.” Construction of the wall determines the ease or difficulty of fountain installation. You need to know whether there is adequate support for a wall water fountain behind finished interior walls and how to ensure that wood, stone, stucco or brick exterior walls can take the weight.

Some wall water fountains are very heavy and become even heavier when water is added. These wall fountains require more expertise for installation. Never hang a wall fountain (or heavy artwork) from a sheet rock or plaster wall with no stud and anchor support. When in doubt about wall support, choose wall fountains constructed of fiberglass that looks like authentic weathered stone. They appear to be heavy but are surprisingly lightweight. Also consider the depth of the fountain. Some wall fountains protrude only an inch or two from the wall; others have a depth of 6” or more. Make sure the fountain will not become a location obstacle.

Recruit an assistant to help balance and support the fountain while it is being attached to the wall. To avoid running electric connection cords down the wall to a floor outlet, install an outlet directly behind the wall mounted fountain. While the electrician is there, have them also connect the fountain to a wall switch for easy on and off. Read how to install a wall fountain instructions carefully before beginning installation. Then, follow the instructions step-by-step. Fill the fountain with distilled water and enjoy.

   

Types of Outdoor Wall Fountains

Wall fountains are a pleasing choice for outdoor patios, courtyards, balconies and gardens. They do not take space away from outdoor garden seating or planting areas. All you need to a sturdy wall and electrical source. Outdoor wall garden fountains are weather-proof. And, since there is typically not a large basin to attract debris and sediment, care and maintenance are easy.

Preformed fountains are typically made from quality cast stone, fiberglass or fiberglass resin composites. Outdoor wall fountains made of DuRock fiberglass are lightweight, but extremely durable and ready to withstand any type of outdoor climate. Finishes on fiberglass fountains look amazingly like weathered stone.

Wall outdoor fountains are also available in a wide range of styles.

From Old World elegance to New World élan, outdoor fountains evoke the ambience the Mediterranean, France, Asia, Spain, England, Celtic Ireland and Native American life. Serenity Health's El Leon wall fountain and Leo wall fountain are examples of the timelessly popular lion head fountains. Water runs from the majestic lion's head into a bottom basin where a light illuminates the water flow. A favorite with Feng Shui fans, the Buddha Fountain outdoor wall fountain features water flowing from Buddha's palms into a sculpted lotus blossom pool and then into the basin. Other popular choices for wall water fountains include sculpted suns, fleur de lis, playful dolphins, animals, fish, playful cherubs and guardian angels.

   

Where to Find Wall Fountains

Wall water fountains are sold by garden suppliers, home improvement centers, discount stores and online retailers. The price of a wall fountains at a discount stores may be tempting; however, buyers are often disappointed with fountain quality and lack of knowledgeable fountain advice and customer service.

It pays to do your homework when investing in a wall mounted fountain. Before handing over cash or a credit card, learn as much as possible about wall fountains. Visit online fountain retailers that specialize in all types of fountains, fountain parts, fountain accessories and provide reliable advice and recommendations. Shop with a fountain specialist that offers easy price and feature comparisons. Take advantage of Website tips and advice. Read customer review on pros and cons of different wall fountains. Compare shipping costs. Contact customer service with questions and to discuss a custom wall water fountains for homes or businesses.

   

Pros and Cons of Wall Water Fountains

When choosing a fountain for a home or business, it is important to consider the pros and cons of different fountain styles, materials and designs. It is also helpful to research installation and maintenance of a variety of fountains. Indoor wall fountains and garden wall fountains are popular water features.

There are many reasons to choose a wall water fountain. With adequate support, they create appealing focal points for almost any type of wall in any room. Wall mounted fountains free floor space; especially helpful in confined spaces. Wall fountains are made from a myriad of materials complementing different decorating themes from formal to whimsical. Diverse styles allow wall fountain water flow to be customized from a gentle trickle to a stimulating cascade. And, unlike tabletop fountains an interior or exterior wall fountain hangs above the reach of toddlers and small animals.

Drawbacks of wall water fountains are minimal. Since some large wall fountains are heavy, especially when constructed of concrete or stone, they require the adequate support of studs and anchors. An electrical source must be installed behind the fountain to avoid the distraction of electrical cords running from the fountain to a ground power source.

   

Places to Use Wall Fountains at Home

Wall fountains add interest and bring pleasure throughout inside and outside areas of the home.

  • In Feng Shui, the front door is the entry point for all-important chi – positive energy. An attractive covered porch or courtyard is an ideal location for an outdoor wall fountain welcoming guests and chi to a home.
  • A foyer offers the first impression inside a home. It sets the tone for living spaces. Fill the foyer with appealing by adding a dramatic wall fountain. Since wall fountains do not occupy floor space, they are perfect for even small foyers and entranceways.
  • Like fine art, wall fountains add interest and an eye-catching focal point to great rooms and family rooms with the added advantage of the enjoyment and energy of cascading water. A myriad of materials and styles make it easy to enhance personal tastes and existing interior décor. In an apartment or condominium with no outdoor space to enjoy, a wall fountain brings nature indoors.
  • A wall mounted fountain in the dining room encourages leisurely dining and provides pleasing background music during the meal.
  • A wall water fountain on a backyard patio or garden area maximizes living space and adds soothing sounds of moving water to the setting. Wall mounted water features also prevent potential water safety problems with small children and pets.

   

Winterizing for Wall Water Fountains

Wall water fountains can survive the cold weather if you follow preventative measures to keep them in top shape and functioning properly. For optimum protection, consider removing your pump and storing it indoors - in your garage, or in the tool shed. In addition to covering your basin, you can also stuff absorbent materials into the basin to help trap any moisture. Items like carpet underlay and even newspaper will do. If you want a ready-to-go item, you can buy a specially designed fountain cover that helps to keep wall water fountains from damage during the cold weather.

   

Ideal Setups For Outdoor Water Fountains

When choosing outdoor water fountains, keep in mind the style and color of the unit when you're making a selection. You want to pick one that's appropriate for the area you intend to put it. Outdoor water fountains come in concrete, fiberglass and re-constituted stone. For a more contemporary area, consider an outdoor fountain with clean lines and a simple design. Ornate water fountains work well in areas where the fountain should stand out amongst a lush garden. You can also plan a garden area around a theme, like sea life and add a wall fountain with a scene of playful dolphins.

   

Great Ideas For Installing Wall Fountains

For lightweight wall fountains you can easily attach by nailing, using a screw or attaching to a sturdy hook, take a look at the fiberglass wall fountains. Fiberglass wall fountains are fast becoming a popular choice for fountains because they are relatively lightweight, often weighing less than 20 pounds. The fiberglass version is light enough that you can mount it on your own without any assistance. In addition, they appear virtually indistinguishable from genuine stone. Just about every type of wall fountain you can find in a pre-cast concrete or reconstituted version, you can find in a fiberglass version, as well.

   
Are there maintenance concerns for my fountain in the summer?

Summertime Wall Water Fountain Maintenance

The seasonal changes bring about special considerations for your wall water fountain. Wall water features don't require as much attention as a large garden pool. Still, there are some tasks you can do to help upkeep your wall water fountain.

  • During the summer, you can still add plant life to your fountain if you so choose. Later plantings don't flower as well as earlier in the year, but you can still get some blossoms worth your while.
  • Keep an eye out for water discoloration and algae growth during this time of the year. You can use chemical treatments to rid your wall water fountain of algae growth.
  • If you do decide to add plant life to your wall water fountain you'll need to remove the old heads and flower stalks as the flowering plants start to fade.
  • Look out for pests during this time of the year. If you find aphids, you can remove them by a strong spray of water.

   
How do I protect my wall water fountain in the winter?

Winterizing for Wall Water Fountains

When the temperatures drop to freezing levels around winter, wall water fountains can endure some pretty harsh conditions. Water that enters a porous fountain can freeze and expand, causing cracks and damage. That's why it's a good idea to take some steps to protect your wall water fountain when the cold weather hits.

One way to protect wall water fountains during winter is by using a sealer for areas of a concrete fountain that might have water seepage. If you can prevent water from entering the body of a porous surface, you can save your wall water fountain from some unwanted damage.

Another consideration is your pump. During extreme cold, drain the fountain of water and cover the basin with a heavy plastic sheet. Then make sure that it's secured properly from the wind by tent tape or a comparable method. You want to make sure all the parts of you wall water fountain are in good working order.

   
What can I do to create the best environment for my wall fountain?

Ideal Setups For Outdoor Water Fountains

Getting outdoor water fountains set up properly is easy enough if you follow just a few steps. In order to get everything set up properly, here are a few words of wisdom we put together for you.

  • Placement for outdoor water fountains is important. Consider putting your outdoor water fountain near a patio or bench where you can enjoy it. You can also surround an outdoor water fountain with a flowerbed in a gazebo area.
  • Placing outdoor water fountains in sunny areas brings about the problem of algae. In order to resolve this, treat the water with a fountain cleaner on a regular basis to prevent algae growth.
  • Add rocks or small pebbles to the water basin of your outdoor water fountain for visual interest.

   
What are some guidelines for installing wall fountains?

Great Ideas For Installing Wall Fountains

Installing wall fountains is easy enough once you follow a few guidelines. If you're getting ready to hang up your fountain outdoors or inside, read our great tips on how to get it right.

  • If you're looking for a suitable wall, most wood-sided walls don't have enough strength to hold wall fountains, but stucco and brick walls will hold the weight.
  • If your wall fountain requires plumbing, you can set it up in one of two ways. You can run the plumbing behind the wall, which keeps it out of sight, but requires breaking through the wall. The easier way to supply water to your wall fountain is by running it on the surface and disguising it with vines and plants.
  • You'll find a wide variety of attachments with wall fountains. Some wall fountains require heavy-duty attachments such as t-blocks, which are decorative type brackets. Some lighter wall fountains attach to the wall with mounting hardware that comes with the fountain.

   

Types of Indoor Wall Fountains

Indoor wall water fountains bring sensory delight to plain walls and silent homes. Unlike a passive painting or lithograph, a wall fountain is a dynamic work of art, combining water movement, light and sound in ever-changing and intriguing ways.

When looking for the best type of indoor wall fountain consider interior wall space and interior décor. Match fountain size to wall space. Just as a massive piece of artwork overwhelms a small interior wall; an over-sized fountain has the same effect. Match your wall fountain style to your interior décor. For instance, gleaming stainless steel wall fountains enhance a contemporary setting, but look out of place in a formal living room with Early American décor. And, a sculpted cherub Old World style wall fountain fits beautifully in a formal setting, but detracts from a decidedly modern dining room.

As the popularity of wall mounted fountains has skyrocketed, so have choices. A sample of some of the most popular types of indoor wall fountains includes:

  • Hand crafted solid slate wall fountains with a choice of frames to fit décor.
  • Copper wall fountains that enhance almost any setting.
  • Glass wall fountains that appear to “float” on the wall.
  • Mirrored wall fountains that reflect falling water images and add depth to the room.
  • And custom wall fountains with hand painted backgrounds that combine personal art choices and water with intriguing effects.

   

Wall Fountains Add Flair to Waiting Rooms

Does this sound all too familiar? Functional seating circles the wall, a few tables hold outdated magazines, unimaginative artwork and a few fake plants are typical décor for waiting rooms for many physicians, dentists, attorneys and hospitals. Other waiting areas at automotive service centers, hair salons and government offices also lean toward lackluster. Business waiting areas don't have to be boring.

Appealing and affordable, eye-catching wall fountains add flair to any business setting. Marketing studies show that patients, customers, clients and prospects are attracted to businesses with style and flair. In addition to adding instant visual appeal, surveys show that indoor waterfall fountains relax customers and reduce complaints about lengthy waits. Patients of dentists and physicians report that a wall fountain in examination and medical procedure areas relaxes and reduces medical-related stress. Wall mounted fountains free limited floor space in waiting rooms and becomes an instant focal point. The soothing sound of falling waters masks conversations and distracting or unpleasant inside and outside noise. Custom wall fountains can also be personalized with corporate logos for any style office decor. And, indoor fountains help remove negative ions and increase pleasant humidity to the environment.

Added bonus: Moving water attracts prosperity according to popular Feng Shui beliefs.

   

Plumbing Smarts For Your Wall Water Fountain

When selecting a pump for your wall water fountain, you want to pick one which flows at the proper rate – not too fast and not too slow. Flow rate is measured either by gallons per minute or by liters per hour. Not sure how to determine the flow rate? Think of it this way. First you'll need to know the approximate distance from the top of the pump to the top of the fountain. Then figure what the stream requirement you'll need for 150 gallons of water per hour per inch of the channel. After you've worked that out, you can buy the appropriate pump for your wall water fountain.

   
Are there special considerations to care for my wall water fountain during the fall season?

Fall Wall Water Fountain Maintenance

In the fall, temperatures start to drop, but you don't yet have to deal with the harsh cold weather of winter. For the most part, your wall water fountain should function normally without any special maintenance considerations. However, if you have plant life in your wall water fountain, you'll want to do some basic care.

  • During the fall season, you'll want to take out all the plant life that will be over-wintered. If need be, you can empty out any plant life containers and bring them indoors for the winter season.
  • Hardy aquatic plant life will do best if you leave them in your wall water fountain as long as the temperatures don't drop below 23 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • You may have lingering algae, so you'll want to remove them. An organic algicide can be used to remove remaining algae.
  • If you have especially harsh winters where freezing temperatures occur, now is the time to prepare for them. Get materials ready to line the interior of your fountain and soak up excess water. Get a tarp to provide cover for your wall water fountain or a get a fountain cover to protect it during the wintertime.

   
Are there special maintenance considerations for springtime?

Springtime Wall Water Fountain Maintenance

Springtime is the start of a new season. Although this part of the year means relatively low maintenance for your wall water fountain, there are still some things to consider during the spring.

  • If you plan on adding plant life to your wall water fountain, the springtime is the best time to do so.
  • You can also reintroduce over-wintered plants in the spring and divide them, if necessary.
  • For plants that are already established in your wall water fountain, springtime is the time to fertilize them.

   
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