Even the smallest pond is able to decorate your own summer cottage and give it a twist. And a do-it-yourself fountain will not only become a favorite place to relax and provide aesthetic pleasure, but will also become an occasion for compliments from invited guests.

But not everyone decides to build this mysterious hydraulic device with their own hands. Some summer residents mistakenly believe that the construction of a fountain is a laborious and expensive process, and one cannot do without the help of specialists in this matter. But every fan of spending time in nature can give himself such pleasure, the main thing is to know all the nuances of building a fountain with his own hands.

There are two types of fountains according to the type of construction.

  1. The open version involves the supply of water to the nozzle. The formation of a jet in this version of the device occurs due to changes in the water level. The water pressure in this case is weak, so it is necessary to constantly monitor the water level. In addition, the water in such a fountain quickly becomes contaminated. To create it, you need to install a small tank at a height of about one meter above the nozzle.
  2. A fountain with pump installation is the most practical and effective option. Thanks to the placement on the bottom of the pump, continuous circulation of water is ensured. Here, the pressure is stronger and the visual effect is more beautiful.

By design, pumps that act as fountains are divided into submersible and surface (stationary).


Best location for a fountain

picking up comfortable spot for the construction of a fountain, it is recommended to take into account the degree of slope of the earth. If the plot is uneven, it is better to place such a decoration in a lowland. This option for the location of the reservoir will allow not only to adjust the volume of groundwater, but will increase the oxygen saturation of the air.

  • too close to the house so that moisture in windy weather does not get on the walls;
  • on open areas in order to prevent water from blooming due to sunlight hitting the pond;
  • next to the trees so that the leaves, seeds, fluff falling from them do not clog it, and the roots do not damage the waterproofing.

The fountain should be located in such a way that it is not an obstacle on the way to other buildings and is visible from all points. It is recommended to place the structure near the resting place.

The minimum distance that must be maintained between the fountain and plants, buildings, furniture is 50 cm. So the plants will not die from excessive moisture, and the furniture will not become unusable. Perfect option for the location of the fountain - partial shade and a place protected from the wind, located in proximity to a source of water and electricity. This arrangement will save you from unnecessary wires and additional work for their isolation.

Having decided on the place, it's time to think about the shape and depth of the future fountain.

Preparation of materials for construction

For the construction of a fountain in order to save money and effort, you can use the technology of building an ornamental pond with its equipment with a pump.

Materials needed to build a fountain:

  • fountain container;
  • pumping station;
  • durable film;
  • bayonet shovel;
  • natural stones various sizes;
  • sand, gravel;
  • decorative elements.

Selecting and installing a container

If you plan to build a miniature fountain, you can use an ordinary plastic basin or any other small container as a reservoir.

For large reservoirs, old bathtubs or a self-dug pit are suitable. If a bath is used, it is necessary to dig a hole of such a size that its edges are not higher than the ground. All holes are securely sealed in the bath, after which it is lowered into the pit and strengthened with earth, stones and sand.

For a homemade tank, a hole is made of the required depth and covered with a dense, high-quality film, which is fixed along the edges on the surface with stones. Stones are also poured to the bottom various forms and sizes. It is important that the stones do not have sharp edges and cannot cut through the film. The stones are evenly distributed over the entire bottom of the future fountain.

Choosing a pump for building a fountain

In order to construct a fountain on the site on your own, it is not necessary to purchase expensive materials, you can adapt any old elements. However, you should not spare money - the pump, the better it is, the more beautiful the fountain will turn out and will decorate the site for longer without causing problems.

Submersible pump - best option for building a fountain suburban area. Works on the principle of a centrifuge. You can also install a surface pump, it is mounted on the edge of the reservoir, but is most often used on large fountains and cascading reservoirs.

When choosing a pump, it is worth starting from the pressure that is constantly present in the pipe and the differences in this pressure. Therefore, buying the most powerful pump may not be justified, since not in all cases it will be able to work out its full power.

Regardless of which type of pump is chosen, it is important to remember that its power must be related to the diameter of the pipe. The jet of the fountain should come out under powerful pressure, and not slowly flow out of the pipe, since there will be no effect from such a design.

How to make a fountain with your own hands: step by step instructions

The construction of the fountain includes several main stages:

  • pit preparation;
  • fixing the trench;
  • installation of a container or covering the bottom and edges with a film;
  • installation of pumping equipment;
  • fountain decoration.

To build such a fountain you will need:

  • an old tire from a truck or tractor;
  • cement mixture, water, crushed stone and sand;
  • container for mixing cement and a shovel;
  • sealant;
  • building level;
  • mastic;
  • stones;
  • pump.

Stages of work:


Video - Do-it-yourself tire fountain

For such a fountain you will need to prepare:

  • thick film;
  • shovel;
  • sand;
  • pump;
  • stones of different sizes without sharp corners.

Stages of work:

  • we dig a hole, clear it of stones and tamp the bottom;


New life for an old bath

For this version of the country fountain, you need to prepare:

  • shovel;
  • pebbles;
  • pump equipment;
  • bath;
  • insulating tape;
  • metal scissors;
  • colored iron sheet;
  • drill.

Stages of the construction of the fountain:

  • we dig a pit corresponding to the size of the existing container;
  • we put the bath inside and plug all the holes;

  • we cut out wide strips from iron and lay them around the bath, close them with stones;


For this sprinkler you will need:

  • plastic bottle;
  • metal, strong wire or nail;
  • insulating tape;
  • garden hose.

Stages of building a fountain:


  • put the mini-fountain in the right place and turn on the water.

This option is perfect for watering the garden and garden.

Decorative fountain for home

To build such a fountain you will need:

  • a large flower pot with a pallet;
  • paints on glass and ceramics;
  • small water pump
  • contours;
  • decorative balls, aquarium decorations.

Construction stages:

  • decorate the pot with paints;
  • make a small hole in the bottom of the pot;
  • install a pump under the pallet;
  • we drag the pump tube through the hole made in the pot;
  • we fill the bottom with pebbles;
  • decorate with artificial plants and figurines;
  • fill the pot with water.

Video - DIY decorative fountain

Fountain decoration

You can emphasize the uniqueness of a handmade fountain by decorating it. It is recommended to lay out beautiful, multi-colored stones of different sizes around the reservoir, put flowers in pots, place cute figurines of animals, birds, and so on.

In order for the fountain to amaze with its beauty and unusualness at night, you can make it illuminated with the help of special equipment. Lamps installed around the perimeter of the fountain and lighting at its bottom will create a fabulous, magical atmosphere.

The bottom of the reservoir can be planted with special plants, bushes can be planted around the fountain.

Any country pond and fountain, including, needs careful care. To maintain the order and transparency of the water, a pleasant spring appearance of the structure, it is necessary to regularly clean the tank. With the help of special devices, it is required to remove leaves, seeds, fluff and other objects from the surface of the water that can not only spoil appearance reservoir, but also lead to a malfunction of the fountain.

At the end of the summer season, it is necessary to drain all the water, move the removable parts of the structure indoors, and cover the remaining parts and the bowl with a film so that dirt does not get into them.

It will not be difficult to build a fountain with your own hands in a country house or even in an apartment and will not require large financial resources. Before building decorative fountain it is necessary to determine the shape, size and installation location. There are many options for the location of such structures - at the gazebo, on the lawn, in the garden. After the construction of the fountain, you need to carefully monitor the purity of the water, regularly remove debris and add water, as it will evaporate.

Such designs are widely used in the design of suburban areas. Fountains can decorate any ownerless area or become the highlight of a summer cottage. And by connecting fantasy and decorative elements, you can make it even more beautiful and unusual.

Even if the pond on your site is not large sizes, it can make a good contribution to the ennoblement of your territory. And if you decide to build a fountain with your own hands, it will be interesting. It will not just be a place of 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 a hydraulic device is very expensive and time-consuming, and also requires the intervention of a specialist. 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 points of design and construction. In this article we will look at how to make a fountain.

Fountain types

Due to the type of construction, products are divided into two types:

  1. Open fountain. As a rule, in such buildings, water is supplied to the 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 by a meter from the nozzle.
  2. Pump fountain. This is the most common design option. Here the pump is placed on the bottom, which creates a constant cycle of water. For structures of this type, the pressure is quite strong and visually looks more beautiful.
tiered fountain

According to the type of pumps, fountains are divided into submersible and stationary.

  1. 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 embodiment, water seems to erupt from the earth.
  2. 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 earth. If the surface on the site is uneven, then it is better to install the structure at the bottom. Thanks to this, it will be easier to adjust the volume of groundwater, and the oxygen saturation of the air will also increase.


Install the fountain where it will be convenient to admire it

It is not advised to build a fountain:

  1. close to home, as strong wind water will get into the house itself.
  2. In a site with direct sunlight, which will contribute to the rapid flowering of water.
  3. Under a tree, as fallen leaves or overgrown roots can ruin the product.

It is necessary to place the fountain so that it does not interfere with moving around the yard, but on the other hand, so that it can be clearly seen from different sides. We advise you to locate 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 a large amount of moisture. The same principle is relevant for furniture near a water feature. The most optimal location of the structure is a place in the shade and without wind, near water and an electrical network. So I will save your efforts and material costs.


After we have decided where the fountain will be, you can proceed to its design or what will be the shape and depth of the building

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:

  1. Capacity
  2. Pump
  3. water insulator
  4. Shovel
  5. Stone different sizes
  6. Decor elements

How to choose and install a container

In the case of a small fountain, an ordinary basin can serve as a reservoir small size

For a larger option, you can use a bath or a pit dug with your own hands. When using a bath, you need to dig a hole so that its edges are below ground level. First, all holes are closed in the container, then it descends into the pit, where it needs to be strengthened with stones and earth.

If you want to dig your tank, use a film for this. It, in turn, should be dense and of high quality. In a dug hole, the film is pressed against stones. Also, stones are lined to the bottom. They should not be sharp, as this may damage the film. They need to be evenly distributed throughout the bottom.

How to choose a pump

To build a fountain, it is not necessary to buy expensive materials, since you can use the elements used in the household. But you don’t need to save money on buying a pump, since how long it will work without problems depends on the quality of the pump, and the more beautiful the final result will be.


Most the best choice for construction is to use a submersible pump. But if you have a large or cascading fountain, installation of a surface pump is welcome.

The main indicator when buying a pump is its power. If your fountain has a small water pressure, 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.

The erection of the fountain

The construction of the fountain consists of five stages:

  1. Digging a pit
  2. Trench reinforcement
  3. Fixing the tank or installing the film
  4. Pump installation
  5. Fountain decor

Now consider some options for building a fountain with your own hands.

Examples of building fountains

With the use of a tire

For this we will need

  1. Old used tire, for example, from under a tractor
  2. Cement, water, gravel and sand
  3. concrete mixing tool
  4. Film
  5. Level
  6. Stones of various sizes
  7. Mastic or silicone
  8. Pump

Fountain made of tires lined with stone

Sequencing:

  1. Preparing a concrete solution.
  2. Pour the solution onto the bottom 10 cm high and level using a level.
  3. After the solution dries, put the tire on the bottom, after cutting off the sidewall on one side.
  4. Using mastic or silicone, glue the tire to the base.
  5. Concrete is poured along the edge of the tire, thereby strengthening the structure.
  6. We put the pump in the center of the tire.
  7. We decorate the fountain. With the use of a tire

Using film

For this type of fountain you will need:

  1. Thick film
  2. Shovel
  3. Sand
  4. Pump
  5. Stones of different sizes

Fountain in a film pond

Sequencing:

  • First, you need to dig a pit, remove everything superfluous from the pit, for example, stones and ram the bottom.
  • Next, you need to fill the pit with sand.
  • The next thing to do is to lay the film. We lay it so that the edge goes 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 an almost built work of art according to your taste.
  • Fill the pond with water.

Using an old bath

For this case, you need to have in stock:

  1. Shovel
  2. stones
  3. Pump
  4. Bath
  5. Insulating tape
  6. Metal shears
  7. Metal sheet
  8. Drill

Fountain from old bath

Sequencing:

  1. We tear out a hole according to the size of the bath.
  2. We lower the bath into the pit and clog all the holes
  3. From a sheet of metal, you need to cut wide strips and lay them around the perimeter of the bath, pressing down with stones.
  4. Decorative gravel can be placed in the bath itself.
  5. Installing the pumping system.
  6. It is possible to install the backlight, and change the color of the water with the help of blue. Thanks to this, the bath will not be noticeable.
  7. We decorate our design.

Using a plastic bottle

For such, if I may say so, a fountain, you need to have available:

  1. Plastic bottle
  2. Carnation
  3. Insulating tape
  4. garden hose

Practicality in everything!

Sequencing:

  1. Remove all stickers from the bottle.
  2. We punch holes in the bottle with a hot nail.
  3. We install the hose in the bottle and tightly wrap it with tape.
  4. We place our structure in the planned place and turn on the pressure.

This mini fountain is suitable for watering the garden and garden.

home decorative fountain

For this we need:

  1. Flower pot
  2. Glass paint
  3. water pump
  4. contours
  5. aquarium decoration

Flower Pot Fountain

Sequencing:

  1. We paint the pot with paints.
  2. Make a small hole in the bottom of the pot.
  3. We mount the pump under the pot stand.
  4. We pass the tube through the hole made.
  5. We put pebbles on the bottom.
  6. We make decoration.
  7. We fill the container with water.

Decor

If you decorate your fountain, it will further emphasize how unique it is. Near the pond you can put natural stones, you can even different colors, expose houseplants, put various figures of toys or animals, etc.

Design lighting 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, and the water was clear, and the building had a pleasant appearance, it is important to constantly clean the tank. Using special devices, you can remove leaves and similar things from the pond that can spoil the water, as well as damage the equipment.

When holiday season when it runs out, 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 in a summer cottage or in your apartment is not so difficult and does not require large material expenses. 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 - control the cleanliness and water level, as well as remove fallen leaves.

Such structures are often installed in suburban areas. The fountain can decorate any free area or become its oasis. If you connect your imagination and use various decorative elements, the fountain will look even better and more original.

How to mount a fountain in your garden (video)

How nice after a hard day's work to relax by the cool, soothing murmur of water fountain made with my own hands. Even a small decorative fountain in a summer cottage will not only bright decoration landscape, but also a favorite place to relax, where you can enjoy unity with nature. It will not be difficult to give yourself this incomparable pleasure if you realize the idea yourself, knowing how to make a fountain in the country with your own hands.

Choosing the right place

Garden fountains - best way solutions to the issue of air humidification in the hot summer months. Regardless of the style in which the hydraulic installation is made, be it classic, rustic, oriental, avant-garde, it will be a bright touch in landscape design. Fascinating overflows of water streams, playing in the sun with all the colors of the rainbow, will not leave anyone indifferent.

The key to a successful choice of a place for a fountain is proportionality with the appearance of the site and the overall harmony of the garden.

When choosing a location, it is important to consider the possibility of connecting to the power supply for the uninterrupted operation of the pump.

When deciding on the location of the fountain, one should start from the presence and degree of slope of the earth. It is better if the installation is placed in a lowland, which will increase the saturation of the air with moisture, as well as adjust the volume of groundwater.

It is undesirable to place fountains:

  • in too open areas of the site, since direct Sun rays will provoke the "bloom" of water;
  • near trees, since powerful roots can deform the fountain bowl and damage the waterproofing, and foliage from trees, fruits, seeds and fluff, falling into the reservoir, can cause malfunctions;
  • in the immediate vicinity of the house so that the wind currents do not bring moisture to the walls of the building.

The most successful place is a platform that is well visible from the house and various parts of the garden.

Preparing a suitable container

When deciding to create a fountain with your own hands in the garden, it is important to correctly choose or make your own container for a hydraulic installation.

As a fountain bowl, you can use ready-made plastic containers of various shapes that allow you to provide reliable waterproofing.

To create larger fountains, it is required to dig a foundation pit, at the bottom of which a foundation for the future structure will be equipped. The bottom of the dug hole under the fountain is covered with a layer of sand, the side walls are reinforced with bricks. After that, the inner surface of the tank can be covered with a plastic film that does not allow water to pass through. Surface seams can be sealed by treating them with frost-resistant silicone.

An important point: the level of penetration of the base should be below the level of the soil. This placement will eliminate the possibility of washing away the soil around the bowl of the fountain.

An emergency drain can be provided near the edge of the surface, the presence of which will not allow water to rise above the required level.

Craftsmen, creating a fountain with their own hands in the country, use any waste materials: natural stones, river pebbles, car tires, glass products, ceramic parts

The main requirement for the material is high strength characteristics and the ability to withstand temperature extremes.

The finished bowl can be filled with water.

Pumping system installation

It is impossible to put a fountain into operation for a summer residence without connecting its “heart” - a powerful pump that ensures the continuous movement of a powerful stream. The success of the long-term operation of the fountain directly depends on the correctness. General principle The operation of the system is quite simple: the water ejected through the nozzle is collected in the bowl. From the bowl, it flows into the drain hole, from where it enters the pipeline and, as it moves, it first undergoes a coarse, and later a finer cleaning. The pump from the pipeline pumps already purified water to the nozzle.

When thinking about the question of how to make a fountain in the country, it is imperative to provide for the installation of a drainage system. Piping for the system can be equipped with plastic pipes about 16mm in diameter. Plastic has excellent performance and long service life. The plastic construction is easily connected with a special soldering iron.

Decorative garden fountains are mainly equipped with circulation pumps, in which water is taken from the bowl, passing the circle, is discharged back into the fountain

The power of the pump directly depends on the capacity of the bowl of the fountain, as well as the expected power of the jet, which will break out of the water like bright fireworks.

You can supplement the water circulation system of the fountain by installing a receiver - a pressure tank. Installing a receiver allows you to provide a constant pressure for water to enter the nozzle and stable operation of the system as a whole. With this configuration, water is pumped into the receiver by a pump, and then transferred to a nozzle located at a lower level.

The action of cascading fountains is based on the same principle.

The water in the cascade flows smoothly in a small waterfall along several steps located at different levels.

After installation, the pump should be checked for operability and only then decorated with decorative elements.

Optional equipment

Installing additional equipment for the fountain will transform and diversify the design.

Special nozzles allow you to give jets of ejected water the most unusual shapes: geysers, tulips, domes, umbrellas, hemispheres

The combination of nozzles and the effect of the shapes they form allows you to create whimsical water patterns.

Additional lighting miraculously transforms the fountain for giving, giving it a magical effect. Since light sources often come into contact with water and are located directly in the body of the fountain, increased requirements should be imposed on their choice: contacts protected from water, hermetic design.

Decorative lighting, disguised in the bottom of the reservoir, will delight the eye in the coming twilight with the effect of water glow

Underwater fountains are very popular for decorating fountains. lighting, as well as all sorts of floating lamps.

An interesting decor option is a small water mill. Making Instructions:

Extend the life of the hydraulic installation will help proper care behind the fountain: removable structural elements on winter period preferably dismantled. With the onset of cold weather, the tank itself should be emptied of water and securely covered with a film that protects against dust, dirt and precipitation.

The intense rhythm of our life involves periodic rest, both physical and moral, and there is nothing more pleasant than to sit in silence, enjoy beautiful view and pleasant sounds.

For this purpose, decorative fountains for an apartment can be suitable, which fully meet all these requirements.

After all, there is nothing more pleasant than listening to the sound of murmuring water and looking at a pouring fountain. And to build it in an apartment, even if small in size, is a completely solvable task.

In addition to those listed useful properties of this facility, the fountain in the apartment is a good air humidifier.

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Types of mini-fountains at the place of application

Small home fountains can be divided into several types. According to the place of application, they are divided into country and indoor fountains. It is clear that a country fountain, in most cases, is installed on the street, and a room fountain in a city apartment. The country fountain is made large and it is important to choose the right place for its installation.

Do-it-yourself decorative fountain in the apartment video:

Place to install a country fountain

When choosing a place, it is important to observe three important conditions:

  1. It is highly undesirable to install near trees. Firstly, growing roots can damage the fountain bowl and its waterproofing. Secondly, falling fruits and leaves can also disrupt the water system and the bowl.
  2. If the fountain is installed in open areas, then flowering of water may occur due to direct exposure to the rays of the sun.
  3. If the fountain is installed in the immediate vicinity of the house, then additional dampness may form on the building during windy weather, due to the drift of water drops from the fountain towards the house.

Classification of fountains according to the type of falling water

According to the type of falling water, a decorative fountain can be divided into several types.

  1. Waterfall. This view has a ledge design with falling water. It has a beautiful appearance and is used most often.
  2. Cascade. The installation scheme is the same as that of the first type, only it consists of several water flows. The liquid in them overflows along thresholds or inclined ledges.
  3. An ordinary fountain, made in the form of a jet beating up and spraying spray around it.
  4. Fountains made in the form of streams and lakes. They have an original appearance and are becoming increasingly popular.

Do-it-yourself indoor fountain

Looking at the decorations of some fountains, it seems that their manufacture and installation are very difficult to perform. Yes, there are rather bulky designs, and their installation will require you to have serious professional skills and knowledge, but a small do-it-yourself mini-fountain is quite capable of being made by almost every person who has simple skills in construction and installation work. In addition, you will create a design based only on your preferences and taste, the most suitable for your home interior. In addition, you will save a lot of money.

Materials and tools

So, if you still do not know how to make a mini fountain in your apartment, then read our step-by-step instructions. Before starting this work, you need to purchase necessary materials and tool.

  • Fountain container. It can be a basin, a flower pot or something else at your discretion.
  • The hose used to clean the aquarium is about 10 cm long.
  • Polyethylene with dimensions slightly larger than the container.
  • Glue waterproof, expanded clay.
  • Aquarium pump.
  • Medium or large sink, and stones or pebbles to strengthen it.
  • Small shells and colored ground used for decoration.

The bowl for the fountain, which we choose, needs to be checked for cracks and holes in order to prevent future leaks.

Fountain materials

Pump installation

If you are making a tabletop fountain, then you first need to find a hose to work through which a stream of water will come out. To do this, cut off 10 cm from a regular aquarium hose and insert it into the pump. Immediately check whether your system is in working condition so that you do not return to this issue later. We install the pump to the bottom of the tank and fill it with expanded clay. Do not forget to level the surface after backfilling.

Final work

After you have filled up the expanded clay, you need to cover it with a film, having previously made a hole for the hose. Then we put decorative soil on the film.

Note!

For a sea shell, it is advisable to make a base of stones and fix them to the shell using waterproof glue.

The next step is to push the tube through the stones and the sink, after making a hole in it. The end of the hose should protrude from the sink by about 1 cm. The surface of the fountain should be decorated with stones and shells at your discretion. Thus, you saw that you can make a table fountain with your own hands without spending significant effort and money.

Advantages of a fountain without a pump

If you think that when building fountain structures, it is imperative to use a mini fountain pump, then you are mistaken. You can make a small fountain without using a pump, while it will work solely thanks to the laws of physics.

Yes, in these designs there are some restrictions on the power of the jet, but then you do not have to spend money on electricity and buy and connect a pump. You need to know that such a fountain should not be large, otherwise you cannot do without a pump.

decorative fountain

How the fountain works

Such a fountain will work on the principle of communicating vessels, with only some peculiarities. They need to be placed on the same level, connected to each other by two tubes. It is better to take plastic containers and preferably of the same volume, and tubes with a minimum thickness for longer uninterrupted operation of the fountain. Tubes are inserted into the bottom of each vessel, preliminarily drilled holes which then need to be sealed.

Illuminated fountain

Final assembly and installation of the fountain

In order for such floor fountains to work without a pump, you need to use a third vessel, equal in volume or greater than the previous two. To this vessel, in the walls, closer to the bottom, make two more holes, where you insert the two ends of the tubes from smaller containers.

We also tightly seal the inlets of these tubes, and insert a T-shaped adapter into the bottom of a large vessel. After that, the design of your fountain is considered complete. You will have to arrange it according to your taste, preferences and combination with the interior of the apartment.

Garden fountain

Where can I install apartment fountains. As you probably already understood from the above, fountains for an apartment are the most various kinds. In addition, they can be installed not only on the floor, but also on the table and even on the wall.

Note!

Desktop structures are usually the smallest in size and can even be placed on bedside tables and a window sill.

Floor fountains depend on the size of your apartment and can look quite impressive. Wall fountains look like real works of art and look like pano or paintings.

Their installation and manufacture, of course, is more complex and requires much more skills and material, but with a successful performance of your own, you will get indescribable pleasure contemplating them.

Watch a video on how to make a decorative fountain in an apartment with your own hands:

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Decorative ponds and fountains personal plot may be the main elements landscape design. Next to them you can arrange a cozy seating area. The murmur of living water will create a feeling of peace and tranquility. You can create such a corner with your own hands, even if you have little skills and means.

The principle of operation of the fountain and its types

In order to understand the structure of this useful and decorative structure, elementary knowledge of physical laws is enough. All existing fountains are divided into two large groups:

  • having a closed system of fluid movement;
  • with an open water system.

The first type of fountains needs a reservoir filled with water. It can be either a pond or a specially selected container, for example, a plastic basin. The circulation of water is started by a pump. After the wet “salute” splashes out, the liquid returns to the reservoir and repeats the same path again. It turns out the water cycle - but not in nature, but in a system of tubes connected to the pump.

Fountains of the second type are distinguished by the absence of circulation and, as a rule, are connected to flow-through hydraulic structures. In particular, if you make a hole in the outer water pipe, you get the most primitive fountain. In this case, no capacity is required. It remains only to think about how to direct the water flows further.

The diagram shows all the components of the fountain

The principle of operation of any type of fountain is that liquid is supplied under pressure into a pipe ending with a spray nozzle. The type of nozzle sets the water output to the outside in a certain shape.

Cascade

The liquid, overflowing alternately from one container to another, resembles a multi-tiered waterfall. Instead, you can also run water over "steps" of stones. It is allowed to do without nozzles, while the end of the pipe is masked.

Water is transferred from one bowl to another, forming a cascade

Geyser

Vertical discharge of water - distinguishing feature this most common type. It reminds of natural springs gushing out of the ground - geysers. Noisy splashes give garden plot liveliness and irrigate nearby plantings.

The geyser resembles springs gushing out of the ground

Bell

A vertical jet of water passes through a special nozzle of two discs, distributing evenly along its edges. The walls of the resulting water hemisphere become smooth and continuous.

Water passes through the nozzle and is converted into a "bell"

Spray

The nozzle for the spray fountain has a lot of holes for the release of water. Some nozzle options are capable of moving and rotating under pressure, creating either rain or a shower.

The nozzle has many holes, the water at the outlet turns into small splashes

Pump selection

For small fountains the best option will submersible pump. It is not only more expedient in a home-made structure, but also cheaper.

External pumps are required only where the fountain has a complex structure and occupies a large area. Their noise is not extinguished by the water column, and in order to avoid theft, outdoor equipment has to be masked separately. On the other hand, "dry" outdoor pumps are easier to maintain.

An important parameter of the equipment is its power. If the height of the water jet does not exceed one and a half meters, then it is worth limiting to an indicator of 70 watts. If the power is greater, then the cascade will come out higher. Pumps with the ability to adjust the force of pressure are preferred, they allow you to change the height of the fountain.

The strength of the water at the outlet depends on the power of the equipment

When choosing a pump, you should focus on the ratio of indicators such as pressure and performance of the device. The first parameter characterizes to what height the jet directed upwards can rise. The second indicates the volume of water that is pumped by the fountain pump per hour.

Table: pump selection for different types of fountains

Fountain type maximum head (Hmax), m maximum productivity (Qmax), m3/h
Geyser 0,2 2
0,3 3
0,5 4
0,7 5
0,8 7
Cascade 0,6 1
1 2
1,5 3
2 5
2,5 6
3 8
Bell 0,3 0,9
0,4 1,2
0,5–0,6 3
0,8 4
0,9 6

How to make a fountain with your own hands

The first step is to determine the location of the hydraulic structure. It should be:

  • away from trees so that the tank remains free of foliage falling into it;
  • away from walls that can deteriorate from excess moisture;
  • away from the paths so as not to block the road.

A good choice would be to decorate a playground or a place for relaxation with a fountain. Flowers, stones and will be appropriate nearby. If the fountain is placed in a lowland on a site with a slope, then the air for the plants growing above will become more humid and favorable. If you settle down at the top, and even with an open system, then excess water will automatically water the garden.

Preparation of materials

In addition to the pump purchased at the store, other parts can be assembled from improvised materials. You will need either an unnecessary container or a pond. For the latter, a special hydro-repellent film - a liner - is added to the shopping list. To hold the film in place, its edges are pressed with bricks or stones.

Suitable for drainage sand, gravel or expanded clay.

Often installed on top of the bowl metal grid, on which stones masking the pump are laid. The presence of such a tricky detail significantly saves the amount of other materials that would have to fill the water space without it.

A simple spray fountain scheme

Work algorithm

  1. Under the reservoir or reservoir, they dig a recess in the ground equal to the height of the container plus 5 cm.
  2. On the side where the drain will be directed, deepen by 40 cm.
  3. Geotextiles are laid on the bottom.
  4. Equip a drainage layer of coarse sand with a thickness of 5 centimeters.
  5. The tank is immersed in the resulting "hole".
  6. The submersible pump is installed at the bottom of the tank. To keep it there, the device is made heavier. To do this, attach to it any object that has a large weight. Alternatively, the pump is placed in a basket and filled with stones.

Dig a hole for a pond or reservoir

To properly install the pump, three rules must be observed:

  • disguise. All electrical must be hidden;
  • transformer. The device is connected to a low-voltage transformer located inside the nearest room;
  • electrical safety. All connectors for extending the electrical cable must be reliably protected from moisture. A separate machine and RCD will not be superfluous on the line.

They ensure trouble-free operation of the pump by protecting it from contamination. To do this, a filter is installed in front of the nozzle of the device that traps debris. There is also protection against "dry running".

The finished fountain mechanism is decorated, the tank is filled with water and the pump is started. If required, the pump power is adjusted. If desired, equip the illumination of the structure for the evening hours of rest.

Is it possible to make a fountain without a pump

The magnificent Peterhof is famous for its 176 fountains that operate without pumps. The source of water in them is the Ropshinsky springs, passing through many pools and locks. Therefore, if there is a spring in the summer cottage, you can “connect” the fountain directly to it.

Another way to do without a pump is to create a device called Heron's fountain. This option is also suitable for those who do not have natural sources on the site.

The principle of the "eternal" fountain is cyclical

Two of the three containers shown in the diagram - namely B and C - are hermetically sealed, water is poured into A - this is a visible fountain reservoir. The whole trinity is located one above the other and is connected by a system of tubules. In order to start the mechanism, it is enough to add water to the open bowl A. Pressure is created and the liquid starts to move. The magic stops when all the water from the middle vessel goes into the lower one. The thinner the tubes, the longer this moment is delayed.

You can create a fountain with your own hands using the law of communicating vessels according to the ancient method of Heron, even from ordinary plastic bottles. If five-liter ones are taken, then one charge of water is enough for 40 minutes of continuous operation of the mechanism. Tubes are preferred those used in droppers. The tightness of the vessels is provided with silicone sealant.

Primitive fountain model

Video: how to make a fountain yourself

How to equip

Statues and figurines always remain classics of the genre. Sculpting enthusiasts with artistic talent will be pleased to work on disguising the pump. The material for the manufacture of monumental figures is polymer concrete - fake diamond. It retains the strength of forms even in harsh frosts.

Modeling and statues - traditional elements of decor

In a large area, even a car is allowed to be disposed of. Let the currents of living water pass through it and give strength to the green shoots around, and the neighbors will stop to take a selfie against such an unusual background.

Even an old car will come in handy

Such a still life will be more appetizing. Old samovars, teapots and cups will be used, and the pump tube will be hidden in the leg of the tea table. Abundance pouring onto the earth will be a symbol of the endless hospitality of the owner of the cottage.

Fountain still life - original composition in the recreation area

Imitation natural source will always be appropriate among lovers of natural farming. To decorate the fountain, only the stone that is under the feet is taken. Naturalness is provided by this technique one hundred percent.

Natural stone is one of the popular materials used in landscape design.

Great illustration of what to do earthworks for the arrangement of the fountain is optional. A geometrically calibrated stone slab becomes an obstacle in the way of a spring allegedly beating from the depths and, unable to withstand its power, passes upwards.

An ordinary stone slab can be installed among plants on large pebbles

The Art Nouveau fountain is modern and minimalistic with its right angles. The accent of the building is given by successful lighting at the place where the water flow falls. Light bulbs for underwater "chandeliers" are purchased exclusively LED and completely protected from moisture ingress.

Good lighting will make the whole composition livelier.

You can even imitate the miracle of levitation. For the illusion of a water tap hovering above the ground, it is enough to simply veil the pump hose in a transparent plastic tube. Water enters the faucet, turns around and falls down.

Skillfully decorating tubes and wires, you can create an unusual composition

In this version, it is as if an invisible gardener is watering flowers in a flower bed. If the tube is thin enough, it will not be visible from a distance. For such a fountain, any used dishes are taken. Here, a bowl was added to the teapot.

An old teapot and a rusty bowl found a use

From these bottles will flow uninterrupted fun. With such an original fountain, it is not a shame to invite friends to barbecues. And let alcohol remain at the celebration of life only in this form - in the form of cooling water.

The original fountain, next to which you can stay with friends

There is nothing easier than placing an old musical instrument in a bath filled with water. On the waves of the pouring "music", a children's rubber duck sways quietly. Such an installation would be the envy of the best museums in the world. If desired, the structure is removed, and the bath is used for its intended purpose. The versatility of the tank is another feature of the presented masterpiece.

The design is easy to assemble and disassemble

Rules for care and maintenance

The same water, circulating in a circle, gradually evaporates. Topping up a new portion is the very first thing you will encounter when operating the fountain.

Periodically, the water must be completely replaced in order to avoid its deterioration. Over time, dust settles in the liquid, polluting it. The water turns cloudy bad smell. Simple measures can reduce the amount of dirt coming from outside - it is enough to close the fountain from above with any material at hand after each use.

When draining water, it is necessary to clean and that's it internal surfaces fountain. The filter, fixed at the pump nozzle, is rubbed with a brush.

The shading of the fountain helps to delay the blooming of the water.

Before the offensive winter months all water is removed for good, and the fountain is dried. The pump is removed and transferred to the room until spring. If the device is planned to be stored in a cold room, after drying it is cleaned of deposits. If the room is warm, you can avoid the cleaning procedure by storing the pump in a bucket of water.

If dimensions allow and the fountain is mobile, it is moved entirely under cover. If not, the structure is covered with a film.

In a pond equipped with a hydraulic structure, it is often difficult to change the water. Large debris floating on the surface is caught with long-handled nets. Planting algae and populating it with molluscs allows you to start the process of cleaning the reservoir. The more the pump nozzle sprays the jet, the more oxygen the pond will receive - this also has a positive effect on the freshness of the water.

A properly selected pump and a creative touch in the design - that's all that is required to complete the dacha happiness. They say that a person is able to look at fire and water endlessly. However, even five minutes spent at the babbling fountain can give you a feeling of infinity.


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