Choosing the right fountain pump is extremely important for your water feature to operate effectively and look good. Fountain pumps are extremely operational and efficient components for backyard, indoor, or commercial fountains, but selecting the best pump is crucial. The following are seven important factors that should be considered when deciding on a fountain pump.
Choose Between Internal or External Motor Systems
Before you buy a small pump for the fountain, you have to understand there are primarily two kinds of fountain pumps: external and internal motor systems. An internal motor is easy to install and conceal because it goes into the water feature which makes it favorable for basic fountains.
On the other hand, an external motor system is placed away from the fountain and is more appropriate for large waterfalls, exponentially increasing performance capability. So, as the buyer, you need to first ascertain the size and location of the fountain on your premises.
The Size and Specifications of the Water Feature
Before you buy Kasco Fountains, it should match the size and purpose in conjunction with the associated capabilities and planned effects. It is known that the larger the fountain, the larger the number of gallons per hour it requires to operate.
Kasco recommends the following for proper aeration of a pond:
- Decorative Fountains: 1 HP pump for every ½ surface acre of pond
- Aerating Fountains: ¾ HP pump for every ½ surface acre of pond
- Plain Aerators (tiny display): ½ HP pump for every ½ surface acre of pond
The pump flow rates should fit the size of the fountain along with the volume and effects to be achieved with the water. The thumb rule, however, suggests that smaller fountains run at low flow rates, whereas large fountains or waterfalls benefit more from higher GPH flow rates. Read more below.
Lift or Head Height
Lift or head height is the maximum height at which the pump can discharge a liquid vertically upward. Ensure the vertical distance between the water level in the source and the highest point of the fountain is lower than the head height of the pump. If this factor is ignored, the performance of water flow rates will be inadequate, leading to the distortion of fountain aesthetics. But the “pump curve” is perhaps more important. The pump curve is a measurement of gallons per hour at various lift heights. Pumps produce fewer gallons per hour the higher they pump. Look at the pump specifications to determine the size best suited for your particular fountain.
Energy Efficiency
It is also worth noting that a fountain pump is used for many hours. Hence, energy efficiency is important. Choose pumps that have energy-efficient motors or even recommended eco-friendly pumps. These models may be expensive, but in the future, they can lead to huge savings in electricity bills.
Durability and Material Quality
The pump’s durability is determined by the materials used to build it. For instance, pumps made with stainless steel or high-grade plastic upward are corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for external use. Choose a pump that can endure the surrounding environment of your fountain.
Noise Level
The focus of the fountain should be the sound of the water flow, while the sound of the pump should be the least audible. Many pumps, particularly cheap ones, can be noisy during their operation. Avoid a pump that produces noise and look for one known for low noise, ideal for indoor fountains or quiet gardens. When using a pump indoors in a confined space, any pump will vibrate, but you can often cushion the vibration by placing pump on spongy material.
Maintenance Management
Maintenance is essential for all pumps to perform optimally and enjoy a long service life. Choosing a pump that can easily be taken apart and cleaned is important because its efficiency may go down or be completely impaired when clogged. Several designs include integrated filters, which make cleaning and life easier for cleaners. As a rule of thumb, if water flow suddenly decreases, there is likely a clog somewhere.
Sometimes, also, the impeller gets stuck. Impellers on small pumps are usually contained behind an impeller cover plate.
Conclusion
When selecting a fountain pump, the dimensions of your fountain, style, and function are the key consideration factors. Considerable care in selecting the pump’s type, flow rate, head height, and energy efficiency rating will contribute to the complete functioning of the water feature and positively influence the beauty of the surroundings. A properly made decision allows the fountain to continue functioning for many years, and in return, the fountain serves as an elegant water display that is soothing for the audience.
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