Ornamental fountains
A standard fountain pump comes complete with an extension pipe and a selection of fountainhead spray nozzles.You can either mount the unit directly in the water and simply adjust your chosen nozzle for best effect, or you can fit the pump under a decorative statuette. Connecting the unit directly produces the largest possible spray height above the surface of the water.

When the unit is mounted under a statuette, you have to take the height of the statuette into account when you are working out the total height of the spray that can be achieved. For example, if the pump gives a spray height of 500 mm above the water, and it is run through a statuette that is 250 mm high, then it follows that the spray will push only 250 mm above the top of the statuette.

So if you want a statuette fountain with a dramatic spray, it is best to buy the statuette first, then choose a pump size that relates to the height of the statuette. Visit garden centres and specialist suppliers to see the various fountains and sprays in action. Take notes, keep the brochures and generally research the whole project before you make a purchase.

Oxygenating fountains
Oxygen is necessary for the fish and wildlife of a pond. If a fountain’s primary function is to oxygenate the water, select the largest pump that you can afford and fit it directly to the fountainhead nozzle, setting the nozzle to produce the most complex spray formation. The greater the turbulence in the water, the greater the amount of oxygen produced: a geyser fountain with a dense, foaming plume will generate more oxygen than a bell jet.

Types of fountain pattern

Flow control
The vertical distance between the surface of the water and the top of the fountainhead nozzle is called the head height of the water. Maximum head height can be achieved by a pump if the fountain is fitted with a narrow-gauge delivery pipe and the water is clean, but if the delivery pipe is wide and badly fitted, and there is lots of mud in the water, the head height will be much reduced. Check that all the fittings are tight and the pump is working efficiently, push your chosen nozzle on the extension pipe, check that the flow adjuster is set for maximum pressure and minimum flow, and then switch on the power. Finally, fine-tune your chosen nozzle according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

When experimenting with the pump, make sure that your hands and the water are clean, because grit will affect the flow of the water. Check that the nozzle size relates to the size of the chosen pump, or you may be disappointed by the effect.

Geyser fountain: exciting and slightly erratic, and a good choice for an open, breezy site.

Bell jet fountain: gives a structured effect that is good for a small, formal pond.

Single spray nozzle: a good choice when you want to create a bold, dynamic effect.

Fountain jet: a simple no-fuss fountain that is low-cost and looks good in any pond.