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10 Ways Your Fountain is Losing Water (And How to Fix It)
Is your fountain losing water faster than it should? While the calming sound of flowing water adds beauty to your outdoor space, constant water loss can be frustrating and costly. From unexpected splashing to hidden leaks, several factors could be draining your fountain’s efficiency. Fortunately, there are simple and effective ways to stop the water loss and keep your fountain flowing beautifully, all while saving you time and resources.
Why Does My Fountain Keep Losing Water?
There are many reasons why fountains lose water, but understanding the causes can help you make adjustments to prevent it. Let’s take a closer look at the most common issues:
1. Evaporation
Evaporation is the most common cause of water loss, particularly in hot, dry, or windy climates. Over time, the water naturally dissipates into the air.
Solution:
- Place your fountain in a shaded area to reduce direct sun exposure.
- Use a fountain cover when the fountain is not in use to protect it from the heat.
- Adjust the pump flow to reduce splashing, which increases surface area and speeds up evaporation.
If you’re curious about how fountains use water, read our article Do Fountains Waste Water? for more valuable insights.
2. Splashing & Overspray
Excessive splashing or overspray can occur when the water flow is too high or the fountain’s nozzle is improperly positioned. This is often exacerbated by windy conditions.
Solution:
- Adjust the flow rate of your fountain pump to reduce splashing.
- Reposition the nozzle to ensure that the water flows smoothly back into the bowls and/or basin.
- Check that the water level is below the rim to prevent overspill.
If you’ve been wondering whether to leave your fountain on all the time, discover how it can benefit your fountain’s performance, ultimately helping conserve water.
3. Leaks, Structural Issues & Non-Recirculating Systems
If your fountain has leaks or structural damage, like cracks in the basin or plumbing, water can escape. Fountains that don’t have a recirculating system are also prone to greater water loss.
Solution:
- Inspect your fountain regularly for visible cracks or leaks.
- If you find any, seal them with a waterproof sealant.
- Consider upgrading to a recirculating system to reduce water loss in fountains that aren’t closed-loop.
Want to understand how outdoor fountains work? Don’t miss this informative post!
4. Fountain Placement Factors
Placing your fountain in direct sunlight, windy areas, or on an uneven surface can significantly contribute to water loss. The sun speeds up evaporation, while wind increases splashing, and an uneven surface can lead to overflow.
Solution:
- Choose a shaded location for your fountain.
- Ensure the surface is level to allow proper water flow and avoid overflow.
- If possible, place the fountain in a more sheltered area to reduce the impact of wind.
5. Overfilling & Overflow
Overfilling the fountain can result in overflow, causing unnecessary water loss.
Solution:
- Check the water level regularly to avoid overfilling.
- Install a water level control system (ie Auto Refill Device) that automatically maintain the correct water level.
6. Inefficient Pump Operation
An inefficient pump can cause excessive splashing or water loss. If the pump is too powerful or positioned improperly, it can result in water spilling over the edges.
Solution:
- Adjust the pump's flow rate to a more moderate setting.
- Ensure the pump is properly positioned to ensure smooth and efficient operation.
Curious about how much power your fountain's pump actually uses? Learn more about the electricity consumption of your fountain and how to keep it energy-efficient in this article.
7. Algae & Debris Accumulation
Algae and debris buildup can clog the pump and reduce efficiency, leading to more water loss as the system struggles to function properly.
Solution:
- Clean the fountain regularly, removing algae, debris, and leaves.
- Use water treatments like clarifiers to keep the water clean and to prevent buildup. Use an algaecide to kill existing algae.
- Regularly check and clean the pump and filter to ensure smooth water circulation.
8. Porous or Absorbent Materials
Fountains made from porous materials, such as cast stone or concrete, can absorb more water, gradually leading to increased water loss over time.
Solution:
- Seal the fountain with a waterproof coating to prevent water from being absorbed by the material.
- Regularly check for signs of water absorption and reseal as necessary.
9. Draining for Cleaning, Maintenance, or Winter
Draining the fountain for cleaning, seasonal maintenance, or winter shutdown causes water loss. While draining is sometimes necessary, it should be done carefully to minimize water loss.
Solution:
- Drain the fountain only when needed to avoid unnecessary water loss.
- Cover the fountain during the winter to prevent debris buildup and freezing. This helps avoid cracks and leaks that could lead to increased water loss later on.
10. Pets & Wildlife
Pets and wildlife can be a source of water loss as they may drink from or splash in the fountain regularly.
Solution:
- Use a fountain cover or install pet barriers to keep animals away.
- Reposition the fountain to make it harder for animals to access.
How Do I Keep My Fountain Full of Water?
If your fountain is losing water, there are several ways to keep it filled and minimize water loss. Start by ensuring your fountain water level control system is working properly. Many modern fountains come with auto-refill systems that will keep the water level steady and constant. If your fountain doesn't have this feature, you can also manually check the water level regularly and add water as needed.
Another great way to maintain water levels is by installing a fountain splash guard. These guards reduce the amount of splashing, which often leads to unnecessary water loss. Shading your fountain or placing it in a location that receives less direct sunlight can also help, as sunlight accelerates evaporation. Keeping your fountain well-maintained and regularly checking for leaks will ensure it remains water-efficient for the long term.
Final Thoughts
If your fountain is losing water, don’t worry — there are plenty of simple steps to keep it running efficiently and beautifully. By making simple adjustments like fine-tuning the pump flow rate, using water treatments regularly, and properly cleaning the fountain, these small changes can make a big difference in reducing water loss. With the right care and regular maintenance, your fountain can continue to bring beauty and tranquility to your space while being water-efficient for years to come.
Still have questions? We're here to help! Drop a comment below, and we'll be happy to provide answers.
If you need further guidance on water loss or fountain care, don't hesitate to reach out. Our team of fountain specialists is ready to assist you every step of the way. You can contact us at 1-800-975-4022 ext. 3 or email support@theblissfulplace.com. We're committed to helping you create a stunning, water-efficient fountain that enhances your outdoor space.
If you haven’t added a fountain to your home, discover the surprising benefits in this article that could inspire you to take the leap today!
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