Caring for both the visual appeal and health of a pond belongs to the owner’s experience, yet the hidden operational mechanisms of pond fountains and aerators rarely surface until equipment malfunctions occur.

The healthy state of your pond depends on your ability to detect when your fountain needs replacement so you can maintain both water health and visual appearance.

If you want to maintain a beautiful lake fountain in your backyard, then That Pond Guy can help you maintain your pond. However, you must be aware of a few myths surrounding such pond fountains.

1. Pond fountain horsepower is the best gauge

Rating a pond fountain’s volume by horsepower is unreliable. Some manufacturers emphasize horsepower due to public perception, but the industry is unregulated, leading to exaggerated claims.

True performance depends on flow rate and pressure, not just horsepower. High-volume, moderate-pressure pumps suit fountains, unlike deep-well irrigation pumps. Large displays may use air compressors for added effect.

2. The pump has the same flow rate as the fountain

Nozzle type greatly affects water volume in a fountain. Small-holed nozzles create taller, wider displays but restrict flow and clog easily. A 5,000 GPH pump may only release 1,500 GPH after passing through a nozzle.

Aerating fountains use propellers for better flow. Reliable brands test flow rates but often don’t publish them due to industry inconsistencies. Accurate flow measurement includes nozzle impact.

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3. Affordable 220-240V floating pond fountains save more energy

Energy companies charge by kilowatt-hour, not current. Using thin-gauged wire on a powerful pump wastes energy due to resistance, reducing efficiency and creating safety risks.

Higher voltage (220-240V) pumps require thinner cords for long runs. If wiring is inadequate, a 120V pump may waste power, but with proper gauge wiring, voltage won’t impact energy costs.

4. Stainless steel pumps are ideal for your pond fountain

Sometimes true, but not due to stainless-steel housing. Water does not care if the housing is stainless steel or durable plastic since neither corrodes. A stainless-steel pump may have superior internal components.

In that case, it is better. However, performance depends on internal quality, not housing material—though stainless steel adds a “wow” factor when unboxing.

5. Floating pond fountains need no maintenance

Fountain pumps require maintenance. Kasco Marine suggests replacing anodes yearly. Pumps collect dirt and need regular cleaning. Fountain Tech hybrid pumps require annual impeller and cavity cleaning.

In cold regions, floating fountains must be removed for winter. Frozen water can damage components, so store pumps above 32°F to prevent trapped water from expanding and causing cracks.

6. Longer warranties are better deals

A long pump warranty is not always worth it. Longer warranties increase pump prices, while cheaper pumps may last year’s depend on water quality and maintenance. Customers should weigh initial cost versus replacement cost.

Some companies reject warranties for clogging or mineral buildup. Reliable brands like Kasco and Scott honour warranties fairly. Proper maintenance prevents most pump failures, especially clogged or jammed impellers.

So, when you are trying to select your pond fountain, you must take note of the above myths and not get fooled by the supplier.