Choose the right products

What do you need for your fountain?

Choosing the right pump for your fountain will affect the fountain's flow or spray. Learn how to measure your fountain and choose the right sized pump and tubing for your fountain or DIY fountain project.

Step 1: Measure your fountain

How to measure your fountain. Measure the distance between the water line and where the water exits. An illustration of the intersection of a three tiered gray concrete fountain. We can see water in each tier basin, and water spraying out of the top.

determine pumping height

Measure from the water level to the highest point that the water reaches to find the Ideal Pumping Height.

Choose a pump that has an ideal pumping height greater than the height measured.

Be sure to check the area where your pump sits in your fountain. Not all fountains can house large pumps.

Step 2: Choose the right pump

smartpond® Fountain Pumps feature Adjustable Flow Control. If you’re not sure which pump you need, it’s better to select a larger pump and reduce the flow.

If the pump is too small for the fountain, there will not be enough flow or spray. If the pump is too large, it can run out of water and burn itself out.

Pump Types

Decide what type of pump you need for your project: submersible, in-line capable, or low water shut-off.

Submersible fountain pumps need to be kept inside the water basin, fully submerged in the water at all times to avoid pump damage.

Low water shut-off pumps work the same as standard submersible fountain pumps when they are fully submerged in water.  When the water levels get too low, the pump will shut itself off.  The pump will automatically turn back on when the water levels are restored.  These pumps are ideal for fountains located in a sunny or windy area where the water levels can drop without someone noticing. 

In-line capable pumps do not need to be kept in water, they can sit below the fountain with a tube running to and from the pump to the fountain. These are perfect for fountains that do not have a large reservoir or a good hiding spot for the pump.

Prefiltration  Pumps with pre-filters help prevent debris from getting lodged in the pump.  It’s a great feature for pumps located in an area where leaves or flowers may end up in the water.

Be sure to check the area where your pump sits in your fountain. Not all fountains can house large pumps. 

TIP: Remember to keep your fountain full of water. Most pumps will burn out if not fully submerged, unless they have Low Water Shut-off

Step 3: Tubing

500 GPH Fountain Pump with hands attaching 1/2 inch Vinyl Tubing.

All fountain pumps must be connected to the tubing. We recommend using the largest tubing size option for max performance. It’s best to use the tubing that comes with the fountain, unless it needs to be replaced.

If you need to replace your tubing, it's best to replace it with the same size that came with your fountain. If you are unsure of the size, or if you are building a DIY fountain, consult the pump packaging for the recommended tubing size.

It's time for maintenance!

Now that you’ve selected your products, it’s time to learn about fountain maintenance!