Decorating a site is a favorite pastime of summer residents and homeowners. Beautiful flower beds, flower beds and even beds are a true decoration. However, nothing pleases the eye more than ponds and ponds surrounded by beautiful vegetation. And if a stream of water still comes out of it, then the corner turns into the best place recreation. If you still manage to make not only a fountain with your own hands, but also beautiful lighting, put a swing or bench nearby, in the evenings all the inhabitants will gather on this patch.
This fountain is DIY and so is the lighting: a waterproof LED light with remote control for changing colors
Fountain device
To make a fountain at your dacha you don’t need to spend a lot of money. Of course, it all depends on the size of the reservoir and how you imagine it. According to the method of construction, fountains are either closed or open type. It's about about the cyclical use of water. The closed type uses the same volume of water, driving it in a circle. Open - new all the time. Garden and country fountains are mainly made of a closed type: their design is simpler and more economical. Of course, water has to be added and changed periodically - it evaporates and becomes dirty, but still, the costs are not very high.
When installing an open type system, you will have to think through the water supply system, control of its level, drainage and disposal. You can, of course, use the fountain’s reservoir as a container for heating water before watering, and use the bowl to distribute it throughout the garden, but watering is not needed around the clock, and the fountain can operate in this mode.
In the very simple version To make a small-sized fountain, you need some kind of sealed container and submersible pump. Any container can be adapted - a special plastic one for a pond, a barrel, old bath, basin, trimmed tire covered with film, etc. With pumps it’s a little more complicated.
Fountain pumps
Fountain pumps are sold specially, with built-in filters. To make it easier to make a fountain with your own hands, you can buy such models. It’s very easy to work with them: put them in a container, secure it so that it doesn’t move, fill it with water, carry out the starting manipulations (described in the instructions) and turn it on.
Fountain pumps come in different capacities and raise the jet to different heights. Often the kit comes with replaceable nozzles that change the nature of the jet. They are powered from a 220 V network, there are models that operate from solar panels. They are made hermetically, so there will be no problems when connecting, no step-down transformers are needed. The only thing that won’t hurt is an automatic machine and an RCD on the line to which the pump will be connected. This is just in case, to increase security. The price of the smallest and lowest-power fountain pump is $25-30. Productive models cost several hundred or more.
You can use any submersible pump for the fountain. But you need to buy or make (you can make a sand one) a step-down transformer for it. A security group from a machine gun and an RCD on the line will not be out of place here either. This circuit is worth fiddling with if you have an old pump that is this moment not used.
How to do it without a pump
Is it possible to make a fountain without a pump? It is possible, but it is open type. For example, bring a water supply pipe into the pond - central or. The water coming out under pressure will produce a jet of some height. By installing a tip on the pipe, we can change its shape. But with such a construction, it is necessary to figure out where to divert the water. You can go back to the well or to the river, to the irrigation area, etc. Although with such an organization there is a pump, it pumps water into the house, and the fountain is only one of the flow points.
The second option is to place some kind of container at a height, supply water to it, and from there it is supplied through pipes to the fountain located below. To create a more or less decent jet height, the container must be raised 3 meters or higher. But the question remains: how to supply water there. Again using a pump, but no longer submersible. They are cheaper, but require a filter. You will also need a pit in which the equipment is installed. A system of pipes connects it to the bowl of the fountain.
In this area, everything has become easier with the advent of LEDs. They are powered by 12V or 24V, which is much safer than regular mains. There are even lamps that run on solar-powered batteries.
Illumination can be done using waterproof or similar spotlights and lamps. To power them, you need an adapter that converts 220 V into 12 or 24 V, but they are usually sold in the same place where LEDs are sold, so there shouldn’t be any problems. Installation is simple: the spotlights have mounting brackets, the tape can be “shot” with a stapler, only the brackets need to be found larger than the size of the tape: there is no need to punch it, so as not to break the tightness.
There are LEDs that change color. Shades from 8 to several thousand
Schemes of fountains of different configurations and photos of their design
Surely you know that the main component of a fountain is its bowl. In essence, this is the same pond, but with additional equipment - a pump. A pond can be made with at least a dozen different ways and some of them are described in a separate section, because we won’t describe how to make a bowl for a pool. We will pay maximum attention to the organization of fountains and their decor.
Small fountain
The device requires a container and a pump. Decoration is put on the tube that comes from the pump. These can be slabs of stone, in which it is necessary to drill and unscrew, with a diameter of slightly larger diameter pipes. These slabs are strung on top of each other like a children's pyramid.
Scheme of organizing a decorative fountain for a summer residence
To avoid water overflow, it is necessary to provide a drainage system - just below the maximum level, cut a pipe into the container, the second edge of which is led into the sewer, drainage system or to the garden. You can do it another way: arrange a water collector around the bowl - make a concrete groove or dig in a plastic one. Collected water also take it somewhere. Usually in closed systems The problem is not the overflow, but the lack of water - it evaporates, but you can play it safe.
DIY fountain: photo report 1
And now a photo report of how a mini-fountain was made with your own hands according to this scheme. It turned out interesting.
To make this fountain you needed:
- square plastic flowerpot without holes;
- small fountain pump;
- plastic pipe 0.7 m long, diameter such that it fits onto the pump outlet;
- a bag of decorative pebbles;
- three bricks;
- red granite sawn into slabs.
From the tool - drilling machine to drill holes in granite with a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the pipe.
We install a bowl in the prepared hole and place bricks in it, closer to the edges. They are needed for the stability of the structure and to reduce the amount of pebbles. They also serve as a support stone structure. Between the installed bricks we place a pump with a tube on, pour in water and check how it works.
Holes were pre-drilled in the slabs in the workshop. They should be located approximately in the center so that the weight of the stones does not overturn the structure.
The first slab rests on lying bricks, the rest are strung so that the center of gravity does not shift. Having laid the first one, we fill the remaining space with pebbles. After the last piece is laid, a mark is made on the pipe. The very last stone is removed, the pipe is cut down just below the mark, then the last fragment is returned to its place. When the water is turned on, it seems to come straight out of the stone. Very unusual and uncomplicated.
Photo report 2
Next option small fountain made according to the same principle, only a flexible hose was used instead of a pipe, and driftwood was used instead of a stone. The effect was simply wonderful.
Everything is so clear that there is no need for comments. It differs from the previous design only in the presence of a mesh. This is to increase the volume of water: the tray is small in size.
Until you see it, it’s hard to imagine how easy it is to make amazingly beautiful things. As for pipes, it is better to use polyethylene pipes - they bend well and are not afraid of ultraviolet radiation.
How to make a fountain from a tire, see the video report.
Room or tabletop
Mini-fountains are made according to the same principle, only they use very low-power pumps. Suitable even for aquariums, but without aeration. They even work almost silently. We will make a fountain in Japanese style. In addition to the pump, you will need a small ceramic container for this. In our case, oval made of baked clay. A piece of bamboo - about 70 cm long (bought in flower shop, sold as a support for climbing plants), a bunch of living growing bamboo and some small pebbles. From all this comes such beauty.
First of all, cut a piece of bamboo into pieces of different lengths. It is hollow inside - these are natural pipes, which are also for a long time don't rot. One of the sides should have an oblique cut, the other should have an even cut. You cut it so that the longest piece near the evenly cut end has a “joint”. The lower incision goes approximately 5 mm below this thickening. There is simply a partition inside, with its help it will be easy to attach this segment to the pump outlet. It is difficult to cut, but I managed to saw through the thin trunk with a metal blade.
We put a small pump in the vessel, put the longest piece of bamboo on it - its length is about 35 cm. On the other side we put a bunch of living bamboo, filling the space between them with pebbles.
We tie the two remaining pieces of dry bamboo to our “pipe”. You can use hemp rope. That's all, we made a mini fountain with our own hands. All that remains is to add water and turn on the pump.
Other models can be made using the same principle. Now you understand how and it will be easy to change the design. A few photos for inspiration.
Another type, more traditional and familiar to us, uses almost the same idea and the same tools. The difference is in the design. You can take a large ceramic or even plastic pot. It is only important that it has no holes for drainage. Then it’s a matter of technique: divide it with a plastic partition into two or three zones, pour more soil into one and plant one of the moisture-loving plants.
The second part will be the reservoir. Only when organizing circulation is multi-stage filtration necessary: the water becomes very contaminated. Therefore, glasses made of filter materials with different meshes are inserted one after another - first - a wire or plastic mesh, then - fabric with different meshes, and inside this structure - a small pump.
You can make with your own hands not only the composition of such a tabletop fountain, but also a pump. How? Watch the video.
Pebble fountain
Very interesting design at the fountains with pebbles. Their bowl is disguised, so it looks like a dry fountain, without a bowl. In fact, there is a bowl, but it is decorated with pebbles, which are laid on a mesh covering the tank.
Dry pebble fountain - device diagram
A container is installed in the dug pit. Its volume and size should be quite decent: to collect all the splashes, or at least most of them. Place a pump in the container and cover the top with a metal or plastic mesh with a fine mesh. It serves to protect against large contaminants getting into the water, and a thick wire mesh can be laid on top of this fine mesh. This is if you use pebbles. If you are laying stone slabs, you can use boards or bars.
How to make a “dry” fountain with your own hands
With pebbles, it’s probably better to do the opposite: first lay a mesh with a large cell as a base, and on top of it with a small one. This way you won’t have to worry about choosing large pebbles, and debris won’t get into the water.
Rockery with a source - this is what this fountain might look like
If you use your imagination, you can come up with very interesting compositions based on this. For example, one of the options with garden watering can. If yours is in a classic style, a watering can fountain is unlikely to fit well, but it will fit very well into a country style.
As you can see, water is collected in the same vessel, hidden under pebbles, and from there it is pumped into a watering can with a small pump.
Near the wall
This classic version- a small or large stream of water runs from the wall, flowing into the bowl. As you may have guessed, there is a pump in the bowl that supplies water through a pipe to the water outlet point. It's simple if you know how. It's just a matter of implementation and decoration.
To prevent the pump from floating, it is screwed to some kind of heavy plate. At least for the sidewalk, as long as the size fits. The case usually has corresponding holes for mounting, but when choosing, you should pay attention to this.
If you plan to do something similar near the wall of a house or fence, take care of its waterproofing. Even if the water does not flow down the wall, splashes will fall on it and the humidity will be increased. At a minimum, it is necessary to coat it several times with a hydrophobic compound. Try to find one that doesn't change the color of the surface too much.
The design style may be different. A flat surface is made at the top bowl, from which water flows down like a wall. The effect is very interesting. It is important that the surface from which the water falls is mirror-smooth and absolutely horizontal.
Fountain-cascade
The iridescent jets look very interesting. Fountains of this type are called cascades or cascading. With this organization, water is poured from one bowl to another. In the case of a country or garden fountain, you can come up with interesting shapes. For example, a fountain made from buckets, watering cans, teapots and even old garden carts.
The principle of organizing such a cascade is simple: several vessels or bowls mounted above each other so that a stream of water flows from one to the other. At the bottom is the largest tank, where the pump is located. He delivers water through a hose to the highest of the vessels.
How to make a fountain bowl
If you need a classic shape - a round, square or oval bowl from which a stream of water flows, the easiest way to find a suitable plastic tank. They are different shapes and volume - from tens of liters to several tons. In color they are mainly black and blue. Although it seems that for our purposes it is better to take blue color, please note that against such a background, pollution is more visible. To prevent your fountain from looking like a swamp, you will have to clean this bowl often. From this point of view, it is more practical to take black - the water looks the same, but you need to wash it less often.
The selected tank can either be buried flush with the ground level, or leave a side. Most often, the sides are decorated with stone or pebbles. Depending on this, choose the depth of the pit. It is dug out and is slightly larger than a bowl.
When the required depth is reached, all the stones, roots, snags are removed, the bottom is leveled, compacted, sand is added in a layer of about 10 cm. It is well leveled and spilled so that it becomes compacted. Place the bowl on the prepared base and fill it with water. Sand or soil is poured into the gap between the walls of the bowl and the pit. Sand - if the soil is clayey, and soil - if it drains normally. Having filled in a small layer, it is compacted - carefully, using a pole or deck to get into the gap to be filled. But no matter how well you compact, be prepared for the fact that in a couple of weeks you will have to add more: the soil will shrink by several centimeters.
You can do without a plastic bowl. There are two other options: make a tank from monolithic concrete. In this case, you can make a fountain with sides. The process is long and expensive, and you also need to worry about waterproofing.
The cheapest option is to dig a pit and line it with film. In principle, any high-density polyethylene will do, but it will last a year, maybe two. Then it begins to let water through. Special films for swimming pools are more reliable in this regard, but they cost a lot of money, but can be used for years. The technology for making such a fountain bowl is captured in the photo.
The first stage is digging a pit and leveling the walls. After the required shape and dimensions are achieved, the horizontal areas are leveled and covered with a layer of sand. It will protect the film from possible damage.
We lay the film in the finished pit. It should lie inside without tension, freely. Its edges are covered with soil and pressed down with boulders. To prevent plant roots from growing through the film, it is not advisable to spread it under. This is a non-woven fabric that is very tear resistant. It is used when laying roads to prevent the soil from being crushed and trees from sprouting. So she can protect the fountain without difficulty.
Boulders are laid out on the laid film. If the pit is stepped, boulders should lie on each step. When the design of the bowl is almost complete, a pump is installed. The bowl is filled with water and the bowl is tested for leaks and pump performance.
A decorative garden fountain is an unusual and very modern landscape decoration on the site. Even in the absence of special skills, it is quite possible to make such a design with your own hands without a high investment of time and money. As a rule, homemade fountains become a real decoration of the dacha and harmoniously complement almost any garden decor.
Species diversity of fountains for dachas
A country fountain or a street mini-fountain is not only bright design solution, but also a structure that allows you to naturally increase the level of air humidity, which significantly improves the climate in the garden or yard.
Depending on the type of movement of the water flow, cascade and geyser models, as well as the “bell” type, are distinguished.
| Kinds | Characteristic |
| cascade | Single sprayers are combined, in which water is dispensed from different levels pressure and at different heights |
| jet | The most popular design option, represented by a pipe with a nozzle in the form of a tapering nozzle, and a large upward pressure of water, after dividing into streams, falls down |
| "Bell" | The end of the pipe is represented by a pair of parallel disks and water falls between them, and regulation allows you to obtain the required thickness of the falling “bell”-shaped stream |
| "Tulip" | One of the varieties of “Bell”, characterized by the angular arrangement of the disks, which allows you to shape the appearance of the flower |
| "Fish tail" | A modified “tulip”, which is characterized by the supply of water in separate streams upward at an angle |
| "Hemisphere" | Several combined sprayers with a “bell” nozzle allow you to give the stream an attractive shape |
| "Ring" | The view is represented by a pipe bent in the form of a ring with a uniform arrangement of holes, which allows the formation of uniform water jets under high pressure |
Decorative fountain and garden style
The ideas for structures are numerous and the choice of form depends only on the landscape features and taste preferences of the owner. The dimensions are preliminarily determined and the appearance of the structure is thought out using a paper sketch or using modern computer programs. Even a simple version of a hydraulic structure can radically transform a small area and have a positive impact on people. A correctly selected design of a decorative garden fountain helps to decorate the area quite easily.
In the design process, modern designers and architects use the most different styles and directions:
- if ethnic or ethnic design was used when arranging the house and landscape rustic style involves the use of traditional structures, which can be represented by sheds, mills or elements of village utensils;
- if there is a small pond on the site, and when decorating it was used classic style, then the fountain can be supplemented with complex decorative elements, represented by statues, columns and other stucco elements with gushing streams of water.
The most harmonious and impressive modern architecture is combined with a natural style or Eco-direction, devoid of pretentious and bright details, which allows the fountain to blend into the general context of the surrounding space. Also, the bowl of such a structure can be made in oriental or country style.
How to make a fountain with your own hands (video)
Selecting installation locations
After the appearance has been chosen and a sketch has been made, you need to decide on technical parameters design and careful study land plot, which will help you choose the right location for your location.
Preference should be given to fairly spacious areas with some shading, which helps reduce the risk of “blooming” of water under the influence of the sun’s rays. The structure can be built at a sufficient distance from ornamental trees and garden plantings, whose root system can cause destruction of the tank after some time.
Criteria for choosing a pump for a garden fountain
Pumping equipment for equipping garden fountains can be of the wet or dry type. The choice of such a unit should depend on the purpose of the structure, because a pump for arranging a miniature decorative fountain Absolutely not suitable for large and voluminous structures.
| Criteria | Characteristics and description |
| Performance Level | This parameter should be equivalent to the water supply rate in l/h. Pumping equipment ensures that the liquid rises to the required height, therefore, in order to determine the required height, special equipment specifications are used |
| Power indicators | A significant part of the equipment is characterized by a fairly economical level of electricity consumption during constant operation. Continuous operation makes it possible to use more powerful devices equipped with a water supply regulator |
| Water rise height | With a gradual rise of the outlet hose, the actual height of the liquid rise is determined, equal to the distance from the surface of the reservoir to the hose. Mini pumps need a 24V power supply |
How to make a fountain in the garden with your own hands
For self-construction of such a decorative element on a personal plot, it is necessary not only to correctly install and calculate the structure, but also to place the plumbing system and power supply on optimal distance. All installation activities must be carried out in strict accordance with technology.
Digging a pit
In the area selected for installing the country fountain, we dig a pit, the dimensions of which should be slightly larger than the diameter of the structure’s bowl. Around the pit you need to dig an additional shallow trench, about 10 cm deep and wide. A layer of sand needs to be poured onto the bottom of the dug pit. The thickness of a high-quality sand cushion should be approximately 15-17 cm, which will protect the underground part of the bowl from the root system of vegetation.
At the final stage, it is necessary to carefully level the surface of the sand cushion.
Installing the bowl
The fountain container is installed on a leveled surface. The font must be placed under the control of the building level, after which sand is poured and compacted. The container must be installed in such a way that its edges protrude approximately seven centimeters above the ground level.
The next stage, which consists of filling the container with water and installing pumping equipment, is also very important.
Pump installation
Pumping equipment supplies water through a hose. It is best to equip such a decorative design with a low-voltage submersible pump if, in accordance with the original design, the jet height does not exceed a meter. A large garden fountain must be equipped with a network submersible pump.
The most difficult option is the “dry” installation of pumping equipment, characterized by a high-quality and competent connection of the supply and return pipelines.
Finishing work
After the bowl and pump equipment, it is necessary to use waterproofing fabric, from which a canvas is cut, the diameter of which is equal to the size of the fountain pit. Starting from its central part, you need to cut strips so that the diameter of the resulting circles corresponds to the diameter of the bowl. The resulting strips of material are bent and lowered into the container, after which they are secured with sealant.
Decor options
The development of design documentation involves not only determining the style of construction based on general concept design and reference to the area. At the same stage, it is necessary to resolve the issue of colors, surface and underwater lighting, equipping the fountain with filters and auto-topping. Separately, you need to pay attention to the individual, most complex elements.
How to make a fountain from bottles (video)
You can design the ground part at your discretion natural stone, sculptures, plaster figures and live, as well as outdoor and underwater lamps:
- single can be used lighting fixture or a whole system with selection color range, and especially popular are dynamic fountain designs with lighting, which optimally harmonize with the movement of water;
- in order to preserve the shape of the base and increase its stability, it is recommended to lay galvanized fine mesh on the sealed canvas, which can serve as the basis for decorating with stone or crushed stone;
- in order to get a country fountain that is as natural in appearance as possible, it is necessary to use stones of one or two types to create a composition, which will avoid a clutter of colors and shapes;
- aquatic plants must be selected especially carefully, taking into account botanical characteristics and requirements for growing conditions;
- It is not recommended to plant bright coastal flowers that attract attention, so it is best to give preference to hardy and most unpretentious aquatic crops.
Special moisture-resistant LED strips that can be installed along the shore, which will highlight the outline of the structure, look very impressive in the design of fountain structures. If the structure is expected to operate for a long time, and to ensure that its long-term and uninterrupted operation pleases the homeowner, it is necessary to provide the garden fountain with competent and high-quality care.
Fountain structures at country houses and personal plots require certain care measures. It is optimal to install such hydraulic structures in an open area, without close proximity to trees or shrubs, the falling leaves of which can quickly clog the water surface. Over time, as a result of the decomposition of leaves, the water in the bowl acquires a cloudy appearance, rots and begins to ooze bad smell.
To avoid water contamination, it is necessary to use special filter systems. Large plant debris can be removed with a long-handled net. Also, to purify water in fountain structures, some types of algae are used, which are planted directly into the bowl. Such vegetation not only allows for water purification, but also creates a very picturesque natural composition, especially if the algae is supplemented with flowering crops or fish.
Fountain made of stones (video)
Following the basic recommendations, it is not at all difficult to build a fountain structure at your dacha yourself, and the presence of such a spectacular decorative element in your garden allows you to transform the area beyond recognition.
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By the way, if the size of the plot, and especially the landscape conditions, allow you to make an oblong pond or even a cascade, then you can make a fountain in one corner or the bottom one, and a waterfall in the other or top corner. Which ones can be viewed on the same website:
Fountain- one of the most attractive decorations in the country house. Its presence helps not only to improve the microclimate of the area, but also to increase humidity, which is necessary for plants and today we will not talk about do-it-yourself fountains.
Size, shape and DIY fountain design may be different. The decor of this design can be made from any materials that are available. These are vases, buckets, clay pots, stones arranged in a dome shape.
The area near the fountain will become everyone’s favorite place to relax. Pumping system for must correspond to the size of the structure.
To build a fountain, choose an area that is clearly visible from any corner. Of course, it is better to place the fountain in the center of the site, but so that it does not interfere with the path to the house or outbuildings.
Place the fountain away from trees and vegetation that do not need additional moisture.
One of the popular types of fountains is a jet reservoir with a stream of water going upward, which breaks up into small streams.
To make a fountain from barrels, prepare:
- 2 oak barrels;
- cut sleepers;
- pumping system (jet lift 1.5 m);
- hose and silicone-based putty.
The barrels can be replaced with a sealed container that will have an inlet for a hose. It will take some effort to install the upper vessel so that the water can flow in a beautiful stream to the lower vessel. Strengthen the top barrel with sleepers or putty. You can replace sleepers with large stones or short logs.
We pass the hose through the side of the lower vessel and the bottom of the upper vessel. The end of the hose should be secured to the pump. Fill the lower container with water and connect the pumping system.
To make a decorative fountain from stones, you will need:
- pumping system;
- copper pipe 1.5 diameter;
- a plastic or metal tube for installing an electrical cable;
- coupling with reservoir;
- gravel with smooth stones and bars;
- water regulator.
The fountain pit should be larger in width and depth of the tank so that the tank can be filled with soil and strengthened well.
Place pebbles at the bottom of the pit. Sand should not get into the water through the reservoir, so the area near the reservoir is watered and compacted with stones.
Place the pump freely in the tank so that it can be easily reached in case of maintenance. Cover the tank with galvanized sheeting to prevent debris from entering. Attach a metal tube to the pump to supply water, and place bars on top of the mesh.
Now collect the stones on a pipe in the form of a pyramid, connect the pump.
All that remains is to decorate the fountain and the area around it.
Whether it’s a hot afternoon or a warm summer evening, the play of silver streams of water in the fountain leaves no one indifferent, and their freshness and coolness do not let go for a long time. At the same time, practice shows that implementing the life-giving movement of water in your dacha is easier than it might seem. If you are already the happy owner of a pond in your yard, then the reason to equip a fountain is doubled.
Choosing the design and placement of a homemade fountain
Before you start arranging the fountain, you should think about ensuring that its appearance is in harmony with the design summer cottage, and its dimensions corresponded to the size of your allotment.
How smaller area plot, the more modest the fountain should be. Against, large territory allows you to realize a whole complex with sculptures, a stream and a waterfall.
A fountain with a sculptural composition of ancient gods, animals and amphibians will fit perfectly into a classical garden with a well-defined layout. It is most convenient to make such figures from artificial stone, that is, polymer concrete. The named material can withstand any frost.
A modern garden will be decorated with a fountain made of glass and concrete, polymer materials and stone. A design of this type should be laconic, which will be emphasized by thin silver streams of water.
The rustic style of landscape design will be supported by a composition consisting of large stones and wooden elements. In this case, a cart or a mill will serve as a successful addition to the design.
The factory-made floating fountain deserves special attention. It can be fixed in one place or another. In a large body of water, it is appropriate to place several torches of scattering water.
A great idea for creativity is floating fountains. The miracle of levitation is easy to implement with your own hands in your yard, if you pay attention that the supporting element and the supply tube of the structure are hidden in the stream of water. For example, a heavy stone can be imitated using plastic panels for finishing the facade, and support will be provided by a thin stainless steel tube.
An interesting effect can be obtained by directing two jets of water against each other. In this case it is necessary high accuracy and accuracy of design.
If you don't like bathing in a barrel, you can put a dummy head and arms in there, and then release a stream of water from its mouth. People around you will definitely pay attention to such an unusual solution.
The trickles of water flowing down the glass look original. Obviously, such a product is subject to homemade craftsmen, but the holes for the outlet of water jets from the upper distribution tube must be made especially carefully.
You should take the choice of location for the fountain seriously. So, too close proximity of trees and bushes will lead to the appearance of leaves and debris in the water. In this case, the device filter will have to be replaced or cleaned frequently. Moreover, tree roots can destroy the reservoir bowl, leading to water leakage.
It is better if the sun visits the surface of the water half of the daylight hours. This lighting mode promotes optimal activity aquatic plants, which can also contaminate the device filter.
There is no need to take risks and mount the water decoration too close to the wall of the building. Otherwise, moisture can lead to destruction of both the foundation and the walls of the building. Another addition to the pond in the yard could be the arrangement of a stream and waterfall, as discussed in the article
Operating principle and types of fountains
Based on the pattern of movement and use of water, fountains are divided into closed and open type structures. In a closed-type system, the same water is used, which is pumped in a circle using a pump, but in open version- the water is constantly renewed.
If we talk about economy and convenience, it is better to choose a closed-type fountain. Of course, you will still have to add water, but this can already be done as needed, for example, during evaporation or changed when dirty. This choice saves time, effort and money. Moreover, in any design, the essence of the work is that water under pressure is supplied to the nozzle and sprayed.
According to the water outlet scheme, we can distinguish cascade type, geyser, spray and bell options. A cascade fountain consists of several containers placed at different heights. In this case, water is supplied to the topmost of them, and then sequentially poured from the bowl above to the one below. In this design, the role of overflowing elements can be played by stones, pipes, jugs and anything that can withstand exposure to water.
A geyser is one that shoots out of the ground. natural spring water. Vertical jet fountains have a similar name. During operation, such a device creates a characteristic noise and moisturizes nearby plants and decor.
The sprayer can have many holes itself different diameters and directions, which allows you to organize the movement of water of bizarre shapes. There are also nozzles that rotate under the influence of water, as is done in irrigation sprayers.
An elegant hemisphere of water or a bell is formed by attachments in the form of two parallel disks. A small water bell produces a gentle sound of water.
Necessary materials and equipment
Even if you create a small closed-type fountain, you will still need a storage reservoir and a pump. For smooth operation of the system, a filter must be installed, and a nozzle is required to spray water. You will probably want to decorate your own work with special lighting. There may be a need to stabilize the water flow and a receiver will be required.
Fountain pumps
Based on the principle of operation, units are divided into surface and submersible. A submersible pump is installed directly in the bowl, where it takes water and delivers it through a filter to the nozzle. This unit is characterized by ease of installation and small size. It is fixed on a small elevation in the center of the reservoir so that it does not capture sediments at the bottom.
Surface pump lasts longer and is easier to maintain. A similar unit is mounted outside the reservoir. In this case, the water is sucked by the pump through the filter and hose and supplied to the sprayer.
A 70 W pump will provide a jet lift height of up to 1.5 m. A convenient unit with the ability to adjust the water supply pressure is convenient. You can roughly select a pump using the table below.
| Fountain pump selection table | ||
| Fountain type | Maximum lift of the fountain jet, m | Pump capacity, m3/hour |
| Geyser | 0,2 | 2 |
| 0,3 | 3 | |
| 0,5 | 4 | |
| 0,7 | 5 | |
| 0,8 | 7 | |
| Hemisphere | 0,3 | 0,9 |
| 0,4 | 1,2 | |
| 0,55 | 3 | |
| 0,8 | 4 | |
| 0,9 | 6 | |
| Cascade | 0,6 | 1 |
| 1 | 2 | |
| 1,5 | 3 | |
| 2 | 5 | |
| 2,5 | 6 | |
| 3 | 8 | |
The water in a country fountain cannot remain clean by definition, so a filter will be required for normal operation of the entire system. An important element design is the nozzle, which determines the number, direction and shape of the fountain's jets (jet).
Specialized stores sell pumps with built-in filters, as well as those equipped with replaceable nozzles. All you have to do is secure it in the container and fill it with water - the work has begun! Depending on the model, additional manipulations may be required, so please read the instructions first.
Power is an important factor that you should pay attention to, since it depends on the volume of the reservoir and determines the height of the fountain jet. The pumps operate on AC power.
Factory units are well sealed and safe, so connection is easy and simple.
If you want to save a little money, you should pay attention to conventional irrigation pumps. True, you will have to tinker a little with installation and buy a sand filter. In this design of the pump, a circuit breaker and a residual current device should be added to its electrical connection circuit to ensure proper safety. Reliable solution- use of an isolation transformer that provides galvanic isolation of power and consumption circuits.
Container for fountain bowl
The container for the bowl can be made with your own hands using film, cast from concrete, or purchased ready-made from plastic. In addition, the range similar products in trade is quite wide, and with small sizes their cost is low.
It is also possible to use various available materials. The containers of original and small fountain models can be selected and manufactured according to a variety of options.
Backlight
Modern technologies make it possible to create stunning lighting for a fountain not only simply, but also safely. LEDs with a supply voltage of 12 - 24 V or lamps with batteries (power - solar energy) will come to the rescue. Suitable for illuminating a fountain LED Strip Light in a water-resistant design, as well as spotlights and special water lamps. They require a power supply with an output voltage of 12 or 24 V. The adapter can be purchased at the same place where the backlight is sold.
The right lighting will make any fountain magical Floodlights are attached to mounting brackets that are included in their design. The easiest way to do this is with self-tapping screws. It is better to secure the tape with a stapler, if the material of the fountain design allows it. In this case, the staples must be chosen wider than the tape: the integrity of the backlight and its tightness must not be violated. You can learn more about fountain lighting from the following video.
There are fountains without a pump
In the case where a fountain with a pump is not a suitable device, preference should be given to an open type of water supply. A water pipe with a tip on will provide a stream of a certain height without any pump. A well with a standard unit can also act as a source.
However, the water must still be discharged somewhere - for example, to drainage well, river or pond. In this case, it is necessary to think about controlling the overflow of the bowl. The issue of water drainage is solved by using water from a vessel for irrigation. Of course, water heated under the sun is beneficial for plants, only with this option the operation of the fountain will be linked to the irrigation time, which will not suit everyone. The positive thing is that in this way it is possible to create a fountain without a pump.
You can consider the following option: the container, which in this case will play the role of a receiver, is installed at a height of at least 3 meters to ensure an acceptable and constant jet height. If you place the container at an elevation of 0.5-1 m, you will get a fountain-stream with a slow flow of water. However, you will still have to supply water to it.
Otherwise, you will have to collect water from a container located under the fountain using a submersible pump and send it through the hose back to the reservoir. A submersible pump is inexpensive, but a filter will be required in the system. To camouflage the equipment, a pit should be constructed. To prevent the storage bowl from overflowing, you can install a water level control valve at the inlet of the container - the simplest one from a toilet tank will do.
Practical fountain diagrams
By doing original idea It is useful to show imagination, and this applies not only to the functional side of the fountain, but also to its appearance. Below we will look at the decor, design, layout, diagrams and photos of several practical options that will help you create your own unique work.
An original and simple fountain made of stones
A very simple and very interesting fountain can be assembled from stones. To do this you need to stock up on the following:
- a small submersible fountain pump;
- a plastic container measuring approximately 30x30x30 cm;
- pebbles and flat stones;
- three moisture-resistant bricks;
- a metal-plastic tube about 70 cm long.
The container for the device must be selected so that it can accommodate three bricks installed on a small edge, and their upper plane should be slightly lower than the edge of the bowl. The diameter of the tube is selected so that it fits well on the protruding pipe of the pump. In this case, the excess gap between it and the tube can be eliminated by wrapping PVC electrical tape. The pump is installed in the center of the tank.
Now you can pour water and test the functionality of the fountain. The next step is to select and prepare the stones. The lowest of them should fit in the bowl and rest on the bricks, the size of the others can be successively reduced. Flat stones should be drilled through the center with a concrete drill, the diameter of which should be slightly larger than the water pipe. It is more convenient to perform drilling on a machine, but if one is not available, you will have to use a hammer drill.
We put the first stone on the tube and lay it on the bricks. We will decorate the base of the structure with pebbles, filling all the free space of the reservoir with it. We stack the remaining stones sequentially on top of each other, placing them on the protruding part of the tube. Now you can cut off its protruding part with a hacksaw. All that remains is to choose a place for the craft and turn on the pump.
Fountain in a stone garden bigger size has a little more complex design. To arrange it, you first need to dig a hole slightly larger than the selected container. The size of the bowl is selected so that it is guaranteed to collect water from a hill of stones of the planned dimensions. It is more convenient to level the bottom of the hole with sand, which is compacted. After installing the bowl, it is also better to fill the remaining gaps with sand and then compact it.
A pump with a tube attached to it is installed at the bottom of the bowl. For a fountain made of large and heavy stones, it is better to use a copper tube. You can add water and test the pump. The top of the container is covered with a stainless steel mesh with a fine mesh, and then stacked wooden blocks as a support for stones. Perhaps it will be more convenient and reliable to first lay several pieces of reinforcement, and then lay the mesh over them. The grid cells should not allow pebbles of the selected size to pass through.
The stones should be drilled in the center and placed sequentially on the tube. The mesh around the stones is covered with pebbles. The surrounding space can be decorated with plants and LED lights. Turn on the pump and enjoy! Don’t forget to add water to the fountain as it evaporates.
Japanese style bamboo fountain
It’s not difficult to build mini-fountains with your own hands according to the same scheme as all the others. The only difference is the low-power pump. It is quite possible to use even an aquarium pump, and aeration is not needed. A nice feature: the small pump makes virtually no noise.
To assemble the presented model, you need to purchase decorative bamboo shoots and a bamboo stick about 0.7 m long (these are used to support plants) in a store for summer residents. In addition, a small vessel and a number of small stones will be useful. It is better to use a ceramic or plastic container without drainage holes. Next we follow the instructions:
- First, we cut the bamboo stick into three parts of different lengths, the largest of which will be 35 cm. Each piece should have one oblique cut, and the second straight. The lower end of the longest bamboo tube should be 0.5 cm below the “joint”, then it will fit well onto the outlet pipe of the pump. It is most convenient to cut with a hacksaw for metal.
- Now we put the longest piece on the pump outlet and install the last one in the container. In another part of the flowerpot we place decorative bamboo shoots and fill the free space with small pebbles.
- Two remaining segments bamboo stick We fasten it with twine to the segment protruding from the pebbles. Now you can add water and turn on the pump.
Small pump
Instead of decorative shoots, you can place living plant. In this case, you should divide the bowl with a plastic partition into 2 zones. One half needs to be filled with soil and a moisture-loving plant should be planted. Moreover, instead of a partition, it is allowed to use a separate pot of earth, which will be placed in a common container. The second zone will become the reservoir for the pump.
Now it is necessary to properly organize filtration, since the water will initially be very dirty. A multi-stage filter is the solution to the problem. It is necessary to insert sequentially into each other glasses made of filter materials with different permeability: first - wire or plastic mesh, then a fabric filter with a finer structure, and inside this combination there is a small pump.
In Japan, bamboo is used to organize water fountains. different designs. Above is a diagram of arranging a fountain in the ground using this material. As you can see, it is quite simple to repeat. Below are several options for fountain designs using bamboo. Obviously, after studying the presented crafts, it will not be difficult to design and implement your own version.
Pebble fountain
It’s easy to create an original “dry” fountain in your own yard if you disguise the container with small pebbles. First you need to purchase a small round plastic bowl and follow the instructions:
Fountain on the wall
The option looks original when water flows out of the wall and flows into the bowl. This is a common version of a fountain, and bringing such a design to life is not so difficult. Of course, a pump is hidden in the lower bowl, from where it supplies water through a hose to the spout point.
To prevent the pump from floating, it is important to secure it well. In this situation, it is convenient to “ground” the device using a heavy stone load. When purchasing a unit, think in advance about possible option pump installation. Since water is constantly near the wall, it is imperative to consider waterproofing. A hydrophobic composition for covering a wall is the right solution, and it is better to choose an option that will not change the color of the surface.
From a design point of view, there is another interesting option: Water flows down a perfectly flat horizontal surface. If you can choose a bowl with similar properties, you will get a wonderful decorative effect.
Cascade fountain
When choosing the type of fountain for your home or cottage, be sure to pay attention to the cascade type with iridescent streams of water. The idea is that water will flow sequentially from one container to the next below. Anything can be used as a container. So, for example, it could be a fountain made of watering cans - then there will not even be one trickle, but several. You can also grab a few buckets, teapots with spouts, or even garden carts.
The simplest bottle fountain
A plastic fountain is the simplest design that can be easily done with your own hands. We thoroughly wash a plastic bottle with a volume of 1-2 liters and remove the label from it. Next, we take a metal wire with a diameter of 1-2 mm and pierce holes in the bottle with a heated end (for example, over a candle or lighter). Keep in mind that water will then spray out of these holes.
To connect to the irrigation hose, the end of the bottle neck is first sawn through with a hacksaw to a depth of 10 mm in several places where there is no thread. The next step: the hose is inserted into the neck of the bottle and secured with a clamp so that it does not come off under the pressure of water.
The fountain at the dacha was made with your own hands, all that remains is to find one for it appropriate place. Through the hose, water enters the bottle, fills it and pours out in the form of beautiful streams out through the holes. This is the simplest and cheapest fountain option.
Such fountains in a summer cottage can be used not only for beauty, but also for watering garden plot. In this case, the holes will need to be made evenly throughout the entire body so that the resulting atomizer is obtained. Another good idea is Summer shower. Hang homemade fountain on a tree or attach to a wall. The refreshing design is ready.
You can combine beauty and benefit in your dacha by making a mini-fountain in a flowerbed. Make holes in one place and place plastic bottle between flowers and plants. Additionally, you can hide or decorate it with stones and artificial ornamental plants. Such a fountain at your summer cottage will not only decorate the area, but will also water your flowerbed.
The fountain should be looked after
Let us remember that water evaporates during circulation and must be added periodically. Moreover, over time, dust and debris enter the reservoir, the water loses its transparency and acquires an unpleasant odor. Large foreign particles can be easily collected with a net. Natural cleaning The reservoir can be provided by placing shells and algae in it. Spraying water with a fountain nozzle will help enrich the water with oxygen and keep it clean.
You can do the exact opposite and chlorinate the water using special tablets for swimming pools. Covering it with suitable material will help to significantly reduce the flow of garbage into the pond. However, despite the measures taken, the water will still have to be changed periodically. In this case, all surfaces of the fountain are thoroughly washed and the pump filter is cleaned. For more information about cleaning a pond, read the article “How to clean a pond with your own hands from mud, silt and algae - a vacuum cleaner and an aerator.”
(2 rated at 3,00 from 5 )Every owner of a suburban area strives to make his home and the space around it as comfortable as possible and at the same time beautiful. After all, a well-designed landscape design is not only a decoration of a summer cottage, but also a harmonious combination of different zones in one area. How good it is after working day dine in the gazebo with your family or, in the hot summer, relax on a bench enjoying the coolness of the fountain. This is exactly what we will talk about in our article, and more specifically, how to make a fountain with your own hands.
Advantages
Most would agree with the statement of psychologists that the sound of water has a calming effect on the nervous system. A person watching the flow of water internally relaxes and gains emotional balance. You can sit by the fountain for hours, watch its play and splashes, and think about your own thoughts.
There is nothing complicated in the design, so almost anyone can install a fountain in their dacha with their own hands - you just need to have the desire and the necessary materials. We will also consider the latter in our article. 
The incomparable advantage of the fountain is that it can be an excellent addition to the landscape design of any suburban area. In addition, a homemade fountain with properly selected lighting will become your guests’ favorite relaxation spot.
Depending on your preferences and the general style of landscape design, the design of the fountain is selected, just take into account the size: if the area is small, then it is better for you to install a small garden fountain with your own hands. 
How it works?
The device uses the principle of circular water supply. In other words, initially a certain amount of water is poured into the reservoir (bowl), which, using a pump, then circulates throughout the entire structure. There is a nozzle above the surface of the bowl, to which water is supplied. To prevent the bowl from overflowing, a special device is installed in it to regulate the amount of water.
This is a generalized diagram that describes the simplicity of the design. Therefore, having installed a fountain in your dacha, you don’t need to think about the fact that water consumption in the area will increase. Just fill in the required volume of water once and from time to time just check the degree of contamination. Even though the pump has a filter, the water should still not be too dirty. 
Choosing a place
Of course, before installing a fountain with your own hands, you need to at least visually determine the most suitable place for it. Better yet, draw a plan in order to have a specific idea of the location of the structure and take into account all the nuances in advance. We offer you several practical advice by choice of location:
- The structure should be visible from anywhere on your site and not block the paths.
- If there is a gazebo or summer cuisine, then a cozy do-it-yourself fountain will be an ideal addition to such a recreation area. If you have a playground, you can make a mini fountain nearby with your own hands - children will be happy to splash in it in the summer.
- Study the topography of your site and find a low-lying place - it is best suited for installing a fountain on the site with your own hands - in the warm season it will be cool and comfortable here.
- The presence of trees nearby will not have the best effect on the operation of your fountain - the roots can damage part of the structure underground, and falling leaves can clog the water. At the same time too open space under straight lines sun rays can cause water to bloom.
- It is best to install the structure away from the house, since gusts of wind can blow the stream of water to the side, causing the walls to be constantly wet.
Varieties
Surely many have noticed that the fountains differ in appearance not only in design, but also in design. Some are made in the form of reservoirs with nozzles, others are on a stand in the shape of jugs, statues and other devices from which water flows.
Accordingly, fountains come in two types:
- submersible;
- stationary.
The first option has simple design and is often found in suburban areas and even in houses. To make such a home fountain with your own hands, you will need a bowl, a plastic pipe, a pump and a nozzle.
Stationary ones have a more complex design and pompous appearance. Such devices can often be found in city parks and squares. For this option, you already need to lay a foundation, since the body is made mainly of stone or marble - durable materials resistant to aggressive weather conditions.
For large plot an area of ten to twenty square meters A large stationary fountain is suitable, but for a small area it is best to install a submersible one. Well, the style of landscape design also dictates its own rules: for Japanese garden, for example, a submersible type is suitable.
Construction design
As we noted earlier, design style also plays an important role. After all, all elements of landscape design should complement each other and be in harmony with each other. The most common option is the classic submersible jet fountain. Its construction does not require large financial and physical costs, and it will look advantageous in any design. Especially if you want to complement an artificial pond with it. If you want to see options for what do-it-yourself fountains for a garden might look like, we presented a photo of the idea at the end of the article. 
The shape of the bowl is most often symmetrical - it is either a circle or a square. You can lay out decorative stones or pebbles along the edges and add greenery. Only the plants must be moisture-loving, otherwise the appearance of the composition will be hopelessly spoiled by rotting plants. 
Necessary materials
Before you make a decorative fountain with your own hands, you should take care of the materials and tools for construction in advance. If you want to make a stone fountain, then you will need following materials:
- smooth round and flat stones different sizes;
- gravel or crushed stone for drainage;
- water bowl;
- water pump;
- copper tube;
- coupling;
- small diameter plastic pipe;
- silicone;
- boards to strengthen the structure.
In accordance with the above materials, you will need the following tools:
- hammer;
- jigsaw or small saw;
- scissors;
- fum tape;
- drill;
- sliding key.
Depending on the desired decoration method, you may need Additional materials and tools. Here you can get your bearings on the situation or make a list of necessary items for work in advance, so as not to be distracted during the process. 
Pump installation
Undoubtedly, the main and important detail The whole structure is a pump. If you are a beginner and don’t yet know how to build a fountain at your dacha with your own hands, listen to our advice: you need to approach the choice of pump thoroughly. First, consider the volume of the bowl - the larger it is, the more powerful the pump will be required. The presence of a filter will protect it from various debris and extend its service life. 
There are two types:
- surface;
- submersible
The first type is installed on the surface, but in no case above the water level. The principle of communicating vessels works here.
It is advisable to install the submersible pump not at the very bottom of the bowl, but at some elevation - then sediment will not fall into the filter. Keep in mind that the pump will consume electricity, so make the necessary communications in advance and provide a shield for safety. 
Even if it is not possible to install an electric pump, do not be upset - then we will tell you how to make a fountain in the country without one.
Design without pump
Without a submersible pump, you can make an open fountain. If you have a well with a pump on your site, you can remove this water through a pipe into a fountain. The only thing you will need to decide is where the water will flow - for example, you can simultaneously turn on the fountain and water nearby plants.
Thus, you can create mini fountains for your garden with your own hands at several points on your site. 
Exterior design
Of course, you shouldn’t forget about the end result of your work. Appearance the finished structure should please the eye, and the lighting will allow you to enjoy the beauty of the fountain in evening time. We offer you some decorating tips:
- You can use a variety of nozzles: the shape of the jet will depend on their shape. It can be in the form of a dome, an umbrella, or even a geyser.
- Properly selected lighting will add zest and mystery to the pond. Light sources can be installed not only around the perimeter of the fountain, but also under water. And it is not at all necessary to use standard options - the multi-colored glow of water will definitely fascinate any viewer.
- Use flowers and shrubs to decorate the pond - they will create the impression of a truly “paradise” corner.
We invite you to see how beautifully decorated garden fountains are with your own hands, photos of which are below.
Ideas and important little things
There are many photographs of country fountains on the Internet, and methods for their construction are described. You can also find enough information on how to make a home fountain with your own hands. Yes, yes, such mini-devices look very original and complement the interior. Such designs are especially popular among supporters of Feng Shui. Of course, the process of their construction is much simpler and cheaper - and their dimensions are quite small. 
If you still have a desire, but don’t know how to make a fountain at home, we will help you make a choice and give you a few useful tips:
- If there is no space on the site, a fountain can be made even at home - in the hallway, for example, or in the greenhouse. Its dimensions can be completely different - depending on your desires and the available space.
- A submersible fountain can be made from available materials - the bowl can be an old cast-iron bathtub or a bathtub cut lengthwise car tire, large flower pot, wide basin.
- The stationary option can be made in the form of a jug, bottles, stones, in the middle of which there is a water hose - this is also an excellent option for homemade design.
- The fountain does not have to be installed separately - it can be part of a wall or landscape composition.
- The cascade fountain is a stationary type and has an undeniable advantage– such a structure can become the fruit of even the wildest imagination. The matter may be limited not only to traditional pots from which water flows and overflows, but also to entire structures in the form of garden carts, teapots, samovars, watering cans with buckets, etc.
- Fountain elements can be painted in various colors, often used special compounds for treatment to prevent the appearance of moss and mold.
And, of course, you shouldn’t forget about maintenance - with the onset of cold weather, you need to turn off the fountain, drain the water from it and cover the entire structure with film until it warms up. In this case, your little country oasis will delight all household members and guests with its joyful murmur. long years.
Photo gallery
We present to your attention a successful selection of 30 photo ideas for do-it-yourself fountain design.
