A solar-powered fountain can add a touch of tranquility to your outdoor space without increasing your energy bills. These eco-friendly water features harness the sun’s energy to create a relaxing atmosphere in your garden or backyard.
In the video above, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook helps install a solar-powered fountain for homeowners Karen and Richard. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of installing your own solar-powered fountain, from preparing the site to enjoying your new water feature.
Tools and Materials for Solar-Powered Fountain
Here’s what you’ll need to complete this project.
- 18-inch level
- Crushed stone
- Dolly or hand truck (if necessary)
- Fountain
- Garden rake
- Hand tamper
- Hand trowel
- Measuring tape
- Rubber mallet
- Shovel
- Solar-powered pump
- Stone dust
- Waterproof putty
- Wheelbarrow (if necessary)
We also recommend having an assistant on hand to help lift and position the fountain’s heavy concrete components.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Location for a Solar-Power Fountain
Picking the perfect spot for your solar-powered fountain is key for performance and appearance. Consider these factors:
- Sunlight exposure: For the solar-powered pump to work effectively, place your fountain in an area that receives direct sunlight throughout the day. The more sun, the better the pump will perform.
- Visibility and aesthetics: Choose a location you’ll be able to see from different areas. Positioning the fountain in a focal point, like near a patio or garden, creates visual interest and enhances the ambiance. As seen in the video, Karen and Richard chose a location they could enjoy from their yard or house.
- Ground stability: Check that your chosen location has stable, level ground to support the weight of the fountain. This will prevent tilting or sinking over time, which could affect the fountain’s functionality and appearance. You can fine-tune the level in the next step, but start from a spot that is unlikely to be disturbed by things like tree roots.
Step 2: Preparing the Site for the Solar-Powered Fountain
Proper site preparation leads to a stable and level foundation for your solar-powered fountain.
Excavating the Site
Begin by digging a rectangular hole approximately 6–8 inches deep at the chosen location. The hole should be slightly larger than the base of your fountain to accommodate the crushed stone base.
Creating a Stable Base
Follow these steps to create a solid foundation:
- Spread 2–3 inches of crushed stone into the hole.
- Use a garden rake to smooth the stone, then compact it with a hand tamper.
- Add another layer of crushed stone and repeat the process until the hole is filled and level with the surrounding grade.
- Spread a layer of stone dust over the crushed stone bed for a smooth, level surface.
Leveling the Area
Use a long level and a straight board to check different points of the base. Make sure there are no humps or dips, then compact the area once more.
Step 3: Installing the Solar-Powered Fountain Base
With the site prepared, you can now install the fountain base.
Positioning the Base
Carefully place the fountain base onto the prepared stone dust bed. Use a level to check that the base is even in all directions and does not rock. If needed, you can add more stone dust or adjust the base by tapping it gently with a rubber mallet until it’s perfectly level.
Adding the Basin
Once the base is level, set the fountain’s basin on top of it. Make sure the basin is securely seated on the base to prevent any movement when the pump is running.
Step 4: Setting Up the Solar Panel
The solar panel powers your fountain, so placement is important for energy capture.
Fine-Tuning Placement
Position the solar panel approximately 2 feet away from the fountain. Make sure it faces south to get the most sun exposure throughout the day. Adjust the tilt angle of the panel to capture sunlight even more.
Installing the Solar Panel
Remove the stake from the solar panel, then push the stake firmly into the ground at your chosen location. Securely fasten the solar panel to the stake, double-checking that it’s angled correctly to capture the most sunlight possible.
Running the Cable
Run the cable from the solar panel to the fountain. Dig a small trench 2–3 inches deep with a hand trowel and bury the cable for safety and a clean look.
Step 5: Installing the Fountain Pump
The pump is the heart of your solar-powered fountain, circulating water to create the desired effect. Follow these steps to install it:
- Place the solar pump inside the fountain’s basin.
- Thread the power cord through the hole in the bottom of the basin.
- Use waterproof putty to seal around the power cord where it exits the basin, creating a watertight seal.
- Position the pump so it will sit flat in the basin and remain fully submerged in water.
Step 6: Assembling the Solar-Powered Fountain
With the base, panel, and pump in place, you can now complete the fountain assembly. The specifics may differ based on the shape and function of your fountain, but here’s how Cook put his together.
Adding the Cap
Place the fountain’s cap on the edge of the basin. Have your helper feed the pump’s hose through the hole in the cap. Carefully slide the cap over the basin and check that it’s seated properly.
Final Connections
Connect the pump’s hose to the outlet on the cap. Double-check that all connections are tight and the hose is free of kinks for smooth water flow without any leaks.
Step 7: Testing and Adjusting the Fountain
Before you’re done, test and adjust your fountain to make sure everything works as expected.
Initial Test
Fill the basin with water to the recommended level. Connect the pump to the solar panel and wait for the water to start flowing. Observe the water flow to make sure it’s steady and reaches the desired height.
Making Adjustments
If the water isn’t flowing as it should, check:
- The pump’s position in the basin
- Sunlight exposure to the solar panel
- The pump’s flow rate, if it’s adjustable
- The hose and connections
Solar-Powered Fountain Maintenance Tips
To keep your solar-powered fountain in top shape, follow these maintenance tips:
- Clean the solar panel: Wipe off dust and debris regularly.
- Check the basin: Remove leaves and other debris from the basin and pump to prevent clogs.
- Top off the water: Refill the basin as needed, especially during hot weather, to keep the pump fully submerged.
- Winter care: Drain the fountain and store the pump indoors during freezing temperatures to avoid damage.
- Inspect components: Periodically check hoses, seals, and the solar panel for wear and tear to address issues early.
