How Indoor Floor Fountains Work

Indoor floor fountains are one simplistic way in which to bring the natural beauty of the outdoors into otherwise stale environments. The dynamic splendor of flowing water over slate, glass, copper, stainless steel, granite or other mediums used in fountains creates an energetic, yet soothing atmosphere. How do these flowing water structures work?

The downward flow of water is easily explained. The answer is gravity. The natural pull of gravity is part of the charm of indoor floor fountains. Such a force allows the water to flow as it will down smooth glass or to follow the natural crevices in a sheet of rock. Once the water reaches the bottom of the fountain wall, it appears to rest in a basin full of rocks or other preferred medium.

In reality, fountains create an illusion that the water flows from an endless source, which many of us relate to flowing streams or to rainfall. While water in nature is cyclical in the long run, a stream, for example, continually flows bringing in a fresh source of water at any given moment. A fountain, in contrast, continually uses the same source of water over and over again via a pump which, through a tube, pulls water from the basin or reservoir and then carries it back up to the fountain head. From here, gravity takes over.

The closed system of indoor floor fountains means that water is not wasted. However, a minimal amount of evaporation occurs which means that the system must be replenished with fresh water now and again. In this sense, the fountain acts as a humidifier, an added bonus. Since evaporation naturally occurs, it is important to refill the fountain when needed in order to avoid complications in the pump system.

On that note, it is very important to only use distilled water when replenishing. This is because minerals from tap water can leave unattractive deposits on the fountain wall. Perhaps even more importantly, these mineral deposits can greatly effect the pump device. With a buildup of minerals, the pump will have to work much harder, which will significantly reduce its performance life. Distilled water does not contain the pollutants and chemicals that will eventually form mineral buildup.

The systems of indoor floor fountains are relatively straightforward. If simple steps are taken to ensure that the pump system is properly maintained, parts will not need to be replaced as often allowing for longer term enjoyment.

Polly Godwin has been an expert on indoor floor fountains since 1998 and is the owner of DesignerFountains.com, a company specializing in the highest quality floor fountains. Visit DesignerFountains.com today for expert advice and quality water fountains.