Whether you’re looking for a new statement garden piece or seeking something to attract a bit of wildlife, a water feature can be a great addition to your garden. Available in a variety of designs, garden water features can provide a source of tranquillity in gardens of any size.
However, if you’re ready to splash out on new garden decoration, it’s important to be clued up about all the practicalities of water features, including how to choose the right one for you.
That’s why, at Homebase, we’ve compiled a complete guide on everything you need to know about garden water features, from installation guidance to maintenance tips. Keep reading to find out how to successfully refresh your outdoor space with a water feature perfect for your garden.
Choosing the Right Water Feature for Your Garden
There are various practical things to consider when choosing the right garden water feature for your space:
- Size – Of course, the size of your garden will determine what kind of water feature your space can feasibly accommodate. If you’re working with a big space and want to create an obvious focal point, a larger garden water feature, like a grand, free-standing fountain, may be a good option. Alternatively, small garden water features would be better suited to a limited space or a more modest garden aesthetic.
- Maintenance – Another important factor to consider is how much maintenance you’re willing to undertake. All water features will require a bit of maintenance and general upkeep, however some will require more than others. Generally, the bigger the feature, and the more water it holds, the more frequently it’ll require a good clean.
- Positioning – Before you go ahead and buy a water feature, it’s a good idea to have a spot in mind for it. You should think about where it’ll look best, as well as more practical considerations, like making sure it’s close enough to a plug socket.
- Power source – Most garden water features are mains-powered, which means you need to have an outdoor plug socket. Some water features, often larger models, require plumbing into the mains, which will likely require an electrician to set up.
How to Install a Garden Water Feature
So, once you’ve found the perfect water feature to create your very own garden oasis, it’s time to install it.
If you’ve opted for a small, self-contained garden water feature, the good news is that you won’t be facing a complex installation process. Self-contained models come with a reservoir attached, so all you need to do is fill it up and plug it in.
Some water features for the garden will often require plumbing into the mains. This is a complex job, so we recommend that you use a qualified electrician.
At Homebase, we stock a wide range of self-contained garden water features, large and small. With no mains plumbing required, you can enjoy the ultimate tranquillity of trickling water without the hassle of tricky (and expensive) installation.
How to Clean a Water Feature
Water features can make the perfect centrepiece for a glorious garden sanctuary. However, without regular cleaning, they can quickly become an unappealing sight of murky water and slimy algae. Luckily, cleaning a water feature is easy, you just need to follow a few simple steps:
- Change the water once a month – Removing and refilling your water feature monthly will prevent bacteria from building up and tainting the colour of the water.
- Use chlorine during the summer – Using chlorinated water will also prevent bacteria and algae build-up. As it’s a harsh chemical, we only recommend using a small amount of chlorine during the summer months. Remember, chlorine is harmful to animals, so if you want your garden water feature to be a wildlife hotspot, avoid it at all costs.
- Clean the water feature regularly – Giving your garden water feature a regular scrub will keep it nice and clean. For most water features, a brush or sponge with warm, soapy water should do the job. For stone water features, a solution of one part vinegar and one part water works well. If you’re looking for a gentler alternative to chemical products, you can also clean algae from a water feature using this vinegar and water solution.
- Clean or replace pump filters – Like any kind of filter, your pump filters can easily become clogged, which means they’re unable to effectively catch and clear bacteria. Following the product manual, you should be able to easily remove and clean the filters if you suspect they’re becoming clogged.
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