How do I install my water feature?

The most important thing to remember is that pumps should not be switched on unless they are underwater. They are designed to be cooled and protected by the water, so running them dry will cause damage.

Self Contained

Some of our water features are self- contained, this means that everything you need is included. You just need to add water and connect to an ordinary household power socket. Some simple self-assembly may be required, such as connecting a tube to the pump.

General Guide to Fitting your Water Feature

The water feature below shows a 'dig a hole' in the ground reservoir.

1. Measure size hole against the reservoir you are using.
2. Place the reservoir in the hole.
3. Attach the fittings together.
4. Attach the pump to the bottom of the water feature.
5. Fill the reservoir with water and place the lid on top.
6. Attach the feature to the pump.

Location

Bear in mind the practicality of power supply and maintenance as well as were best to view them.

Consider viewing the feature from inside the house: the use of simple outdoor spotlighting can make the feature even more impressive at night.

If you choose a position beneath a tree or over hanging shrubs, think of cleaning it. Trees can drip a sticky deposit, and all will drop leaves or needles.

The larger features may need two people to fit, but most can be installed by one person.

Wall Fountains

These are hung on the wall by a securely fixed screw or nail. The feature is then hooked into place by a picture hanger or an indent in feature itself. The pump is housed under the water and not usually visible. A small tube then feeds the water up behind the feature to cascade down again.

Reservoirs

If the feature has a reservoir that requires sinking underground, then the ground can be marked out to the exact size using perhaps a stick, gravel or sand. Sit the reservoir in the hole and make sure it is level. If you have enough room sit the pump on a flat stone so that it is not on the bottom of the reservoir and so helping the pump stay clear.

Water Supply and Power

None of our features need a water supply, just fill with water on installation, and the water circulates.

Most powered units come with a 10 metre electric cable without a plug, except solar powered features. Run the cable into an outdoor socket, or into a garage or shed. You can extend the cable if you need.

If you run the cable under ground, you should use armoured trunking to stop digging though it by accident.

Solar Powered Features

Solar powered features are self contained and work in direct sunlight. To install plug the solar panel into the pump and put it in a sunny position. Solar water features do not store energy - the water flows only during direct sunlight.

Lighting

Use of lighting can make your water feature look stunning from dusk to dawn. One or two simple spotlights can highlight the feature so that you won't want to close your curtains.