DIY interior fountain. DIY decorative fountain at home. Classification of fountains by type of falling water

We all rejoice at the arrival of summer, but when the sun begins to get very hot, we want coolness. Therefore, many people strive to spend more time near fountains, which will not only freshen the air, but also lift their spirits with the sound of falling water. But you don’t have to go to the square to admire this action. Every person, regardless of whether he lives in an ordinary city apartment or in a private house, can make his own decorative fountain.

Pros and cons of creating

A decorative fountain is primarily an element designed to decorate the surrounding space. It has several key advantages:

But artificial fountains also have certain disadvantages:

• The need for special care and periodic monitoring. This structure must be cleaned regularly to prevent debris from clogging the pump. It is also necessary to monitor the serviceability of the equipment and promptly resolve any problems that arise.
• Given that the pump requires electrical power to operate, the fountain will incur certain costs to operate, which can be particularly high if the installation will be in operation for a long time.

Types of structures

Decorative fountains may differ from each other in various parameters. For example, according to the type of placement, they are usually classified into indoor and outdoor. The former are intended for decorating rooms, and the latter are used in open spaces, where they act as an integral element of landscape design.

Based on the type of design, fountains can be divided into several types:

Depending on the nature of the movement of water flow, fountains can be divided into the following types:

It is also customary to additionally highlight annular a fountain in which a ring-shaped pipe is provided, and holes are located in it at the same distance from each other. When water is supplied through them, a flow appears that resembles a ring.

An interesting variation is installation in the form of a hemisphere or hemisphere. It consists of several parallel disk attachments connected in a special way. When water is supplied under pressure, the stream takes on a spherical shape, which gives the entire structure a very unusual and impressive appearance.

Shapes and sizes

Although a fountain can have any size and shape, it is recommended to use common sense when choosing them and remember that it will be somewhat more difficult to care for an installation with a more intricate shape and large dimensions.

The bowl of the fountain can have a symmetrical or non-standard asymmetrical shape. For example, it can be made in the form of an oval, square, circle, triangle, as well as any other geometric shapes, including those that follow the contours of the silhouette of an animal or a person.

Also, fountains can be complex multi-level or made of several interconnected containers. In this case, each element can be equipped with its own nozzle, being an integral part of a more complex installation.

Stylistic design

Fountains used for decorative purposes can be made in a wide variety of styles. Whether a design belongs to one direction or another depends on various factors - appearance, shape and size, material of manufacture.

There are several design options applicable to decorative fountains:

Installation location

In order for a decorative fountain to successfully cope with its role, it is necessary to correctly approach the location of its placement.

Prepare the area in advance so that you can approach the fountain or sit close to it. Make sure that the structure is not obscured by other landscaping elements.

DIY decorative fountain

It is not necessary to pay money to a craftsman to make an original decorative fountain. Any owner can handle this task independently.

Materials and tools

And first of all, you need to prepare the tools, materials and devices necessary for the work:

• container that you will use as a bowl. This could be an old barrel or a bathtub. The main thing is that the product is strong enough without damage to withstand the volume of water;
• a pipe or a sufficiently strong and dense hose for supplying water;
• pumping unit;
• materials for waterproofing;
• filter;
• nozzle;
• shovel.

Manufacturing process

Once you have everything you need prepared, you can proceed to making a decorative fountain:

The fountain you make will last longer if you regularly check the condition of the devices and promptly eliminate any malfunctions that arise, as well as clean the bowl of debris that gets into it.

A decorative fountain can become one of the main elements of your site and change its design for the better. You just need to approach its production correctly. With a little imagination and using unnecessary materials, you can certainly create a creation with your own hands that will look no worse than products made by professional craftsmen.

While landscaping their backyards, some owners at some point realize that there is not enough fountain on their property. You shouldn’t give up on this idea if you have everything planned out long ago and there is no extra space left. After all, it doesn’t have to be a large structure. Even in small areas, you can find a place to arrange a compact decorative fountain, which will give you coolness and become a wonderful relaxation area.

If you decide to create it yourself, then you need to thoroughly prepare for this work. And first of all, you must understand what type of installation this installation should have, what material it should be made of, and how water should flow in it. These and many other factors will determine whether you will be satisfied with the end result.

If this is your first time making your own fountain at your dacha, then you should not build a complex configuration installation. This will not only require more time, money and effort from you to create it, but will also create certain difficulties for you in the future during care. It is best to build a small fountain of a standard shape, which can be made from the most common materials and which will not be more difficult to care for than any other object on your site.

Even if the pond on your site is small, it can make a good contribution to the improvement of your territory. And if you decide to build a fountain with your own hands, it will be interesting. This will not only be a place for leisure, but you will also receive a mountain of praise from friends, acquaintances and neighbors.

However, not everyone wants to take on such an idea, because they think that the construction of such a hydraulic device is very expensive and labor-intensive, and also requires the intervention of a specialist. If you want to know how to make a fountain at home, then we want to please you that anyone can afford to build a fountain with their own hands at home, you just need to know all the aspects of design and construction. In this article we will look at how to make a fountain.

Types of fountains

Due to the type of construction, products are divided into two types:

1. Open fountain. As a rule, in such buildings water is supplied to a nozzle. The jet is formed due to the fact that there are differences in water levels. Here you need to monitor the water level, and the water quickly becomes dirty. In order to create such a pressure, you need to raise the container a meter from the nozzle.
2. Pumping fountain. This is the most common design option. Here the pump is placed on the bottom, creating a constant water cycle. In structures of this type, the pressure is quite strong and visually looks more beautiful.

Multi-level fountain

Based on the type of pump, fountains are divided into submersible and stationary.

1. Submersible pump. It is placed at the bottom of the pond. With the help of a pipeline, water rises to the surface, and the nozzle creates a certain form of flow. In this version, water seems to erupt from the ground.
2. A stationary fountain is usually built from stones in the form of a figure, the shape of which can be any to your taste. Such structures are installed in a park or square, as they are a kind of art.

Ideas for a fountain (video)

Where to install the fountain

When choosing the optimal location for construction, it is important to take into account such a factor as the slope of the ground. If the surface on the site is uneven, then it is better to install the structure at the bottom. This will make it easier to adjust the volume of groundwater, and will also increase the oxygen saturation of the air.

Install the fountain where it will be convenient to admire it

It is not recommended to build a fountain:

1. Near the house, since in a strong wind water will fall on the house itself.
2. In an area with direct sunlight, which will contribute to the rapid flowering of water.
3. Under a tree, as fallen leaves or overgrown roots can damage the product.

The fountain must be placed so that it does not interfere with movement around the yard, but on the other hand, so that it can be clearly seen from different sides. We advise you to place it near the place of leisure.

The smallest distance that should be between the structure itself and green spaces is 0.5 m. Thus, the plants will be protected from large amounts of moisture. The same principle applies to furniture near a water feature. The most optimal location of the structure is a place in the shade and without wind, near water and an electrical network. This will save you effort and material costs.

After we have decided where the fountain will be, we can begin its construction or what the shape and depth of the building will be

Construction materials

To save money and power costs, it is possible to build a pond with a pump placed in it.

Materials for building a fountain:

1. Capacity
2. Pump
3. Water insulator
4. Shovel
5. Stone of different sizes
6. Decor elements

How to select and install a container

In the case of a small fountain, a regular small basin can serve as a reservoir.

For a larger option, you can use a bathtub or a pit dug by yourself. When using a bathtub, you need to dig a hole so that its edges are below ground level. First, all the holes in the container are closed, then it goes down into the hole, where it needs to be strengthened with stones and earth.

If you want to dig your tank, use film for this. It, in turn, must be dense and of high quality. In a dug hole, the film is pressed against stones. Stones also line the bottom. They should not be sharp, as this may damage the film. They need to be distributed equally over the entire bottom.

How to choose a pump

To build a fountain, it is not necessary to buy expensive materials, since you can use elements used on the farm. But you don’t need to save on buying a pump, since the quality of the pump determines how long it will work without problems, and the more beautiful the end result will be.

The best choice for construction is to use a submersible pump. But if you have a large or cascading fountain, installing a surface pump is welcome

The main indicator when purchasing a pump is its power. If the water pressure in your fountain is low, then you do not need to buy a powerful pump. It is important to know that the power corresponds to the diameter of the pipe, and the pressure must be strong, otherwise it will be the result of an unsuccessful fountain.

Construction of a fountain

The construction of the fountain consists of five stages:

1. Digging a pit
2. Strengthening the trench
3. Securing the tank or installing the film
4. Pump installation
5. Fountain decor

Now let's look at some options for building a fountain with your own hands.

Examples of fountain construction

Using a tire

For this we will need

1. An old used tire, for example from a tractor
2. Cement, water, crushed stone and sand
3. Concrete mixing tool
4. Film
5. Level
6. Stones of various sizes
7. Mastic or silicone
8. Pump

Tire fountain covered with stones

Sequencing:

1. Preparing concrete solution.
2. Pour the solution onto the bottom 10 cm high and level it using a level.
3. After the solution has dried, place the tire on the bottom, having previously cut off the sidewall on one side.
4. Using mastic or silicone, glue the tire to the base.
5. Concrete is poured along the edge of the tire, thereby strengthening the structure.
6. We place the pump in the center of the tire.
7. We decorate the fountain. Using a tire

Using film

For this type of fountain you will need:

1. Thick film
2. Shovel
3. Sand
4. Pump
5. Stones of different sizes

Fountain in a pond made of film

Sequencing:

• First, you need to dig a pit, remove everything unnecessary from the hole, for example, stones, and tamp the bottom.
• Next you need to fill the pit with sand.
• The next thing to do is lay down the film. We lay it so that the edge extends beyond the hole. Then we press the film with stones along the contour of the pond.
• Then we install the pump depending on its type and instructions.
• We decorate the almost completed work of art to suit your taste.
• We fill the pond with water.

Using an old bathtub

For this case, you need to have in stock:

1. Shovel
2. Stones
3. Pump
4. Bath
5. Insulation tape
6. Metal scissors
7. Metal sheet
8. Drill

Fountain from an old bathtub

Sequencing:

1. We dig a hole according to the size of the bathtub.
2. We lower the bathtub into the hole and plug all the holes.
3. You need to cut wide strips from a sheet of metal and lay them around the perimeter of the bathtub, pressing it down with stones.
4. You can place decorative crushed stone in the bath itself.
5. We install the pumping system.
6. It is possible to install a backlight and change the color of the water using blue. Thanks to this, the bath will not be noticeable.
7. We decorate our design.

Using a plastic bottle

For such a fountain, so to speak, you need to have:

1. Plastic bottle
2. Gvozdik
3. Insulating tape
4. garden hose

Practicality in everything!

Sequencing:

1. Remove all stickers from the bottle.
2. Punch holes in the bottle with a hot nail.
3. We install the hose in the bottle and wrap it tightly with tape.
4. We place our structure in the planned location and turn on the pressure.

This mini fountain is suitable for watering your vegetable garden.

Home Decorative Fountain

For this we need:

1. Flower pot
2. Glass paint
3. water pump
4. Outlines
5. Decoration for aquarium

Fountain from a flower pot

Sequencing:

1. We paint the pot with paints.
2. Make a small hole at the bottom of the pot.
3. We mount a pump under the pot stand.
4. We pass the tube through the hole made.
5. We put pebbles on the bottom.
6. We make decoration.
7. Fill the container with water.

Decor

Decorating your fountain will further highlight how unique it is. You can put natural stones next to the pond, you can even put them in different colors, display indoor plants, put various figures of toys or animals, etc.

Illumination of the structure can amaze your guests with its originality. This is done using special equipment. Lamps are placed around the perimeter of the structure, and lighting is installed at the bottom.

Plants and decor for the fountain

Aquatic plants can be placed at the bottom of the reservoir, and shrubs can be planted around it.

Fountain care

After you make a fountain at home, it will, of course, need to be well looked after. In order to maintain order, the water to be clear, and the building to have a pleasant appearance, it is important to constantly clean the container. Using special devices, you can remove leaves and similar things from the pond that can spoil the water and also damage the equipment.

When the summer season ends, you will need to drain the water from the reservoir, remove the equipment into the room, and cover the rest with oilcloth to protect it from dirt.

Making a fountain with your own hands on a summer cottage or in your apartment is not so difficult and does not require large material expenditures. Before erecting a structure, you need to find out what its shape, size and location will be. You can place it anywhere - in your garden or near the gazebo. Subsequently, the fountain needs to be well looked after - monitor the cleanliness and water level, and also remove fallen leaves.

This type of structure is often installed in summer cottages. A fountain can decorate any free area or become its oasis. If you use your imagination and use various decorative elements, the fountain will look even better and more original.

How to install a fountain in your garden (video)

Decorative ponds and fountains on a personal plot can be the main elements of landscape design. Next to them you can arrange a cozy relaxation area. The murmur of living water will create a feeling of peace and tranquility. You can create such a corner with your own hands, even if you have little skill and means.

The principle of operation of the fountain and its types

In order to understand the structure of this useful and decorative structure, a basic knowledge of physical laws is sufficient. All existing fountains are divided into two large groups:

• having a closed system of fluid movement;
• having an open water flow system.

The first type of fountains requires a reservoir filled with water. This can be either a pond or a specially selected container, for example, a plastic basin. Water circulation is started by a pump. After the wet “fireworks” splashes out, the liquid returns to the tank and repeats the same path again. It turns out that there is a water cycle - but not in nature, but in a system of tubes connected to the pump.

Fountains of the second type are characterized by the absence of a circulation and, as a rule, are connected to flow-through hydraulic structures. In particular, if you make a hole in an external water pipe, you will get the most primitive fountain. In this case, no container is required. All that remains is to think about which way to direct the water flows further.

The diagram shows all the components of the fountain

The principle of operation of any type of fountain is that liquid is supplied under pressure into a pipe ending with a spray nozzle. The type of nozzle gives the water discharged out a certain shape.

Cascade

The liquid, pouring alternately from one container to another, resembles a multi-tiered waterfall. Instead, you can also run water down “steps” of stones. You can also do without nozzles; the end of the pipe is masked.

Water is transferred from one bowl to another, forming a cascade

Geyser

The vertical release of water is a distinctive feature of this most common species. It resembles natural springs gushing out of the ground - geysers. Noisy splashes add vitality to the garden area and irrigate nearby plantings.

The geyser resembles springs gushing out of the ground

Bell

A vertical stream of water passes through a special nozzle made of two disks, distributed evenly along its edges. The walls of the resulting water hemisphere become smooth and continuous.

Water passes through the nozzle and turns into a “bell”

Spray

The nozzle for the spray fountain has a lot of holes for releasing water. Some types of nozzles are capable of moving and rotating under pressure, creating either rain or a shower.

The nozzle has many holes, the water at the outlet turns into small splashes

Pump selection

For small fountains, a submersible pump is the best option. It is not only more expedient in a home-made structure, but also cheaper.

External pumps are required only where the fountain has a complex structure and occupies a large area. Their noise is not dampened by the water column, and to avoid theft, outdoor equipment must be masked separately. On the other hand, “dry” outdoor pumps are easier to maintain.

An important parameter of the equipment is its power. If the height of the water jet does not exceed one and a half meters, then you should limit yourself to 70 W. If the power is greater, then the cascade will come out higher. Pumps with the ability to adjust the pressure force are preferred; they allow you to change the height of the fountain.

The strength of the water output depends on the power of the equipment

When choosing a pump, you should focus on the ratio of indicators such as pressure and performance of the device. The first parameter characterizes the height to which an upward jet can rise. The second indicates the volume of water that is pumped by the fountain pump per hour.

Table: pump selection for different types of fountains

Type of fountain	maximum head (Hmax), m	maximum productivity (Qmax), m3/h
Geyser	0,2	2
	0,3	3
	0,5	4
	0,7	5
	0,8	7
Cascade	0,6	1
	1	2
	1,5	3
	2	5
	2,5	6
	3	8
Bell	0,3	0,9
	0,4	1,2
	0,5–0,6	3
	0,8	4
	0,9	6

How to make a fountain with your own hands

The first step is to decide on the location of the hydraulic structure. It should be:

• away from trees so that the tank remains free from foliage falling into it;
• away from walls that can deteriorate from excess moisture;
• away from the paths so as not to block the road.

A good choice would be to decorate a playground or a place for relaxation with a fountain. Flowers, stones, etc. would be appropriate nearby. If on a site with a slope the fountain is placed in a low place, the air for plants growing higher will become more humid and favorable. If you settle at the top, and even with an open system, then excess water will automatically water the garden.

Preparation of materials

In addition to the pump purchased in the store, the remaining parts can be assembled from scrap materials. You will need either an unnecessary container or a pond. For the latter, a special hydro-repellent film - liner - is added to the shopping list. To hold the film in place, its edges are pressed with bricks or stones.

Sand, gravel or expanded clay are suitable for drainage.

Often a metal mesh is installed on top of the bowl, on which stones masking the pump are placed. The presence of such a clever detail significantly saves the amount of other materials that would have to be used to fill the water space without it.

A simple diagram of a spray fountain

Work algorithm

1. Under a reservoir or pond, dig a hole in the ground equal to the height of the container plus 5 cm.
2. In the direction where the drain will be directed, they are deepened by 40 cm.
3. Geotextiles are laid on the bottom.
4. Set up a drainage layer of coarse sand 5 centimeters thick.
5. The reservoir is immersed in the resulting “hole”.
6. The submersible pump is installed at the bottom of the tank. To keep it there, the device is made heavier. To do this, attach any object of great weight to it. Alternatively, the pump is placed in a basket and filled with stones.

A hole is dug for a pond or reservoir.

To install the pump correctly, three rules must be followed:

• disguise. All electrics must be hidden;
• transformer. The device is connected to a low-voltage transformer located inside the nearest room;
• electrical safety. All connectors for extending the electrical cable must be reliably protected from moisture. A separate machine and RCD on the line would not be superfluous.

They ensure uninterrupted operation of the pump by protecting it from contamination. To do this, a filter is installed in front of the device nozzle to trap debris. There is also protection against “dry running”.

The finished fountain mechanism is decorated, the reservoir is filled with water and the pump is started. If required, the pump power is adjusted. If desired, the structure can be illuminated for evening relaxation hours.

Is it possible to make a fountain without a pump?

Magnificent Peterhof is famous for its 176 fountains that operate without pumps. The source of water in them is the Ropshinsky springs, passing through many pools and locks. Therefore, if there is a spring on your summer cottage, you can “connect” the fountain directly to it.

Another way to do without a pump would be to create a device called Heron's fountain. This option is also suitable for those who do not have natural sources on the site.

The principle of the “eternal” fountain is cyclical

Two of the three containers shown in the diagram - namely B and C - are closed hermetically, water is poured into A - this is a visible fountain reservoir. The whole trinity is located on top of each other and is connected by a system of tubes. In order to start the mechanism, it is enough to add water into the open bowl A. Pressure is created and the liquid begins to move. The magic stops when all the water from the middle vessel goes into the bottom one. The thinner the tubes, the longer this moment is delayed.

You can create a fountain with your own hands using the law of communicating vessels according to the ancient Heronian method even from ordinary plastic bottles. If you use five-liter ones, then one charge of water is enough for 40 minutes of continuous operation of the mechanism. The preferred tubes are those used in IVs. The tightness of the vessels is ensured with silicone sealant.

Primitive fountain model

Video: how to make a fountain yourself

How to arrange

Statues and figurines always remain classics of the genre. Modeling enthusiasts with artistic talent will enjoy working on masking the pump. The material for the manufacture of monumental figures is polymer concrete - artificial stone. It retains the strength of its forms even in bitter frosts.

Modeling and statues are traditional decorative elements

In a large area, even a car can be disposed of. Let currents of living water pass through it and give strength to the green shoots around, and let the neighbors stop to take a selfie against such an unusual background.

Even an old car can come in handy

A still life like this will be more appetizing. Antique samovars, teapots and cups will be used, and the pump tube will be hidden in the leg of the tea table. The abundance pouring out onto the earth will be a symbol of the endless hospitality of the owner of the dacha.

Fountain-still life - original composition in the recreation area

Imitating a natural source will always be appropriate among lovers of natural farming. To decorate the fountain, only the stone that is under your feet is taken. Naturalness is ensured by this technique one hundred percent.

Natural stone is one of the popular materials used in landscape design

An excellent illustration of the fact that it is not necessary to engage in excavation work to arrange a fountain. A geometrically adjusted stone slab becomes an obstacle to the source supposedly gushing from the depths and, unable to withstand its power, lets it upward.

An ordinary stone slab can be installed among plants on large pebbles

The fountain in the Art Nouveau style is modern and minimalistic with its right angles. The emphasis of the structure is given by successful lighting in the place where the water flow falls. Bulbs for underwater “chandeliers” are purchased exclusively from LEDs and are completely protected from moisture getting inside.

Successful backlighting will make the entire composition more lively

You can even imitate the miracle of levitation. To create the illusion of a water tap floating above the ground, simply veil the pump hose in a transparent plastic tube. The water flows into the tap, turns around and falls down.

By skillfully decorating tubes and wires, you can create an unusual composition

In this version, it is as if an invisible gardener is watering the flowers in the flowerbed. If the tube is thin enough, it will not be visible from a distance. For such a fountain, any used dishes are taken. Here a bowl was added to the teapot.

An old kettle and a rusty bowl were put to good use

From these bottles will flow continuous fun. With such an original fountain, there is no shame in inviting friends to a barbecue. And let alcohol remain at the celebration of life only in this form - in the form of cooling water.

An original fountain, next to which you can sit with friends

There is nothing easier than placing an old musical instrument in a bathtub filled with water. A child's rubber duck quietly sways on the waves of pouring “music.” Such an installation would be the envy of the best museums in the world. If desired, the structure is removed and the bath is used for its intended purpose. The versatility of the tank is another feature of the presented masterpiece.

The structure is easy to assemble and disassemble

Care and maintenance rules

The same water, circulating in a circle, gradually evaporates. Adding a new portion is the very first thing you will have to deal with when operating the fountain.

Periodically, the water must be completely replaced to avoid spoilage. Over time, dust settles in the liquid, contaminating it. The water becomes cloudy and an unpleasant odor appears. Simple measures can reduce the amount of dirt coming from outside - just cover the top of the fountain with any available material after each use.

When draining the water, it is necessary to clean all the internal surfaces of the fountain. The filter, attached to the pump nozzle, is rubbed with a brush.

Shading the fountain helps delay the blooming of water.

Before the onset of the winter months, all water is removed completely and the fountain is dried. The pump is removed and moved indoors until spring. If the device is planned to be stored in a cold room, after drying it is cleaned of deposits. If the room is warm, you can avoid the cleaning procedure by storing the pump in a bucket of water.

If the size allows and the fountain is mobile, it is moved entirely under cover. If not, the structure is covered with film.

In a pond equipped with a hydraulic structure, it is difficult to frequently change the water. Large debris floating on the surface is caught with a net with a long handle. The process of purifying a reservoir can be started by planting algae and populating it with mollusks. The stronger the pump nozzle sprays, the more oxygen the pond will receive - this also has a positive effect on the freshness of the water.

A properly selected pump and a creative touch in the design are all that is required for complete dacha happiness. They say that a person can look at fire and water endlessly. However, even five minutes spent near a murmuring fountain can give you a feeling of infinity.

By making an indoor fountain with your own hands at home, you can not only save a fairly large amount of money, but also purchase a useful interior decoration. According to the Chinese teachings of Feng Shui, the symbol of Water, placed in the northwestern part of the home, ensures prosperity in the family. An excellent embodiment of the moving element in the house can be a babbling brook, a cascade of waterfalls or another form of fountain.

Small decorative cascades for interior decoration should be made taking into account the fact that there is nowhere to drain the constantly rising water at home. This means that the amount of liquid in the system must be constant. To comply with this requirement, the fountain installed in the room must be made to operate in a closed cycle. In this case, water will be collected in a storage tank. The pump installed in the system must lift it to the top point of the structure, from where the liquid will flow out, again falling into the tank.

In order for a thin stream to beautifully flow, drip or shoot up, decorative obstacles should be made of shells, stones, shards or other objects in its path. In Ancient China and Japan, specially trained craftsmen built a channel for a stream so that it would babble beautifully. Tuners of the “music of water” created real masterpieces from ordinary pebbles, laying them so as to form cascades with depressions into which drops and streams fell, producing the noise characteristic of a stream or waterfall.

What to prepare for work?

To create a mini fountain, you need to choose a suitable pump. Its power depends on the height to which the liquid needs to be raised. This value is dictated by the dimensions of the structure and is determined individually. If you want to make a fountain with your own hands so that the stream of water shoots upward, it is better to buy a pump with more power and a regulator. To assemble a small tabletop cascade, an aquarium pump for filtering water is sufficient.

Before you make a fountain with your own hands, you need to prepare:

• a reservoir into which water will flow;
• silicone tubes;
• waterproof glue;
• materials for decorating the product.

The reservoir bowl should be spacious. In addition to its direct function - collecting liquid circulating in the system - it will also serve as the basis for a composition made of stone or other materials. Some of them can be placed directly in the container.

What to do if there is no pump?

A low-power pump that can raise water to a height of about 20 cm can be made independently. For this you need:

• a motor from a children's toy, camera or other, protected from water;
• batteries (phone or finger batteries);
• charging connector if using a mobile phone battery;
• LEDs - optional;
• switch of any type;
• electrical wires;
• plastic gear;
• a small round container (aerosol cap, plastic bottle);
• waterproof glue.

Make an impeller for supplying water from a gear from an unnecessary mechanism: adjust the wheel to the diameter of a round container, glue 4 pieces of plastic crosswise onto the shaft: fig. eleven). Drill a hole in the bottom of the container for the motor shaft, and in the side for water. Place the motor shaft inside the container, glue the motor housing to the bottom of the pump reservoir from the outside, and secure the impeller to the shaft inside (2). Cut a piece of plastic, make a small hole in it, and seal the open part of the pump body. Attach a tube to the hole in the side and seal the connection (3). Connect the wires to the motor and carefully insulate the connection, protecting it from water. Any sealant will do for this.

To connect the motor to the power source, use diagram (4). It is important to remember that batteries should not be exposed to moisture. You can attach them to the outside of the pool, and glue the switch here.

You can include a resistor in the circuit to adjust the speed of rotation of the motor or LEDs for decorative lighting.

Assembly method

A homemade or purchased pump must be attached to the bottom of the tank (storage container). Its depth should be such that the pump is completely immersed in water. You can hide the pump in different ways: place a mesh cover on top of it, on which pebbles or shells will be placed to represent the bottom of a reservoir, or hide it inside a large decorative element. One of the design options - a dry fountain - provides for a completely hidden water surface in the storage tank. To do this, you need to lay a grate on top of it and secure the stones. The water will pass through the stones into the container without forming a visible pool. Rice. 2.

A short master class will tell you how to make a mini fountain in an apartment with your own hands from ceramic pots (Fig. 3):

1. 1 Prepare 2 ceramic pots and 5 trays (2 large and 3 small). Cover them with waterproof varnish, drill a hole for the tube in the center of 1 larger and 1 smaller tray. Make cuts on the edges of the pallets to drain water.
2. 2 Install the pump at the bottom of the tank, following the diagram in the figure. Cover it with a large pot, and lead the tube through its drainage hole and drilled holes in the trays to the very top of the structure.
3. 3 Place a smaller pot next to it and secure the tray to it. The next tier consists of 2 small pallets (one is upside down and serves as a base for the bowl from the other). The pallets must be placed so that the holes cut into their sides allow water to flow from one to another, forming a cascade.
4. 4 Decorate a fountain, assembled with your own hands from the simplest materials, with beautiful pebbles, plants and shells, figures of aquatic animals or birds.

Such a miniature pond can be placed on a table or given a special corner among indoor plants. Iridescent water will not only enliven and decorate the composition, but will also slightly humidify the air.

Waterfalls in the room

A stylish and fashionable interior decoration is a vertical waterfall (Fig. 4). Making this type of indoor fountain with your own hands is not much more difficult than a mini tabletop fountain. The only difference is the pump power for such a large structure. When looking for a pump, you need to pay attention to the fact that the height of the water column is at least 1.8-2 m. This will make it possible to build a water wall or stream originating from the ceiling of the room.

Before making a home waterfall, you need to waterproof the floor in case the tank leaks. Polyethylene film can be used for this. It is advisable to cover with it a section of the floor 15-20 cm larger than the perimeter of the future structure.

For the panel on which water will flow, you will need:

• thick glass or mirror;
• 5x5 cm bars for support posts;
• boards for the base of the top cover;
• a plastic pipe with a diameter of 2 cm for distributing water over the glass;
• a block or thick board for the clamp step.

The structure of the fountain supply system is the same as discussed above.

On top of the fountain tray, you need to install and secure a board with a stop to fix the glass in a vertical position. Knock down the frame from the support bars and crossbars on top. The role of the crossbar can be played by the horizontal bar of the top cover.

Drill a piece of plastic water pipe, the length of which is equal to the width of the glass panel, in one line along the axis. The holes should not be located too far from each other so as to avoid the impression of separate streams. Plug one end of the sprinkler tube and secure it to the top cover strip. Install backlighting if necessary.

Place the glass panel vertically, resting the lower edge against the step of the latch. Attach the side parts to the support bars using liquid nails. To prevent water from spreading beyond the panel, sides made of strips of glass, wood, and plastic must be glued to its edges.

Install the pump into the pan and run the water supply tube up to the open end of the distribution pipe. Connect and seal the connection. Hang the front part of the top cover. Decorate your home fountain with your own hands according to your own taste. Through many holes in the sprinkler pipe, streams of water will fall on the glass and flow down it into the pan, creating the illusion of a falling stream.

Materials for decorative finishing of indoor fountains, made with your own hands in tabletop or floor-standing versions, can be found in pet stores (colored soil, castles, shells, ships in the aquarium department). Flower shops sell bamboo plant supports and beautiful containers. In the souvenir departments you can find artificial bonsai, figurines of birds and animals.

There is nothing more pleasant than relaxing after a hard day under the quiet splash of water in a man-made stream. The decorative functions of the fountain are perfectly combined with its main purpose - to humidify the air in the room. You can add live indoor plants to the streams of flowing water.

The intense rhythm of our life requires periodic rest, both physical and moral, and there is nothing more pleasant than sitting in silence, enjoying a beautiful view and pleasant sounds.

Decorative fountains for apartments that fully meet all these requirements may be suitable for this purpose.

After all, there is nothing more pleasant than listening to the sound of rushing water and looking at a flowing fountain. And building it in an apartment, even if it is small in size, is a completely solvable task.

In addition to the listed beneficial properties of this structure, the fountain in the apartment is a good air humidifier.

Classmates

Types of mini-fountains by location

Small home fountains can be divided into several types. Depending on the place of application, they are divided into country and indoor fountains. It is clear that a country fountain, in most cases, is installed on the street, and an indoor one in a city apartment. The country fountain is made in large sizes and it is important to choose the right place for its installation.

Do-it-yourself decorative fountain in an apartment video:

Place for installing a country fountain

When choosing a location, it is important to observe three important conditions:

1. It is very undesirable to install near trees. First, growing roots can damage the fountain bowl and its waterproofing. Secondly, falling fruits and leaves can also disrupt the water supply and bowl.
2. If the fountain is installed in open areas, water blooms may occur due to direct exposure to the sun's rays.
3. If the fountain is installed in close proximity to the house, then additional dampness may form on the building during windy weather, due to the drift of water drops from the fountain towards the house.

Classification of fountains by type of falling water

Depending on the type of falling water, a decorative fountain can be divided into several types.

1. Waterfall. This type has a ledge design with falling water. It has a beautiful appearance and is used most often.
2. Cascade. The installation diagram is the same as the first type, only it consists of several water streams. The liquid flows into them over thresholds or inclined ledges.
3. An ordinary fountain, made in the form of a jet beating upward and spraying splashes around itself.
4. Fountains made in the form of streams and lakes. They have an original appearance and are becoming increasingly popular.

DIY indoor fountain

Looking at the decorations of some fountains, it seems that their manufacture and installation are very complicated. Yes, there are designs that are quite bulky, and their installation will require serious professional skills and knowledge from you, but almost anyone with simple skills in construction and installation work can make a small mini-fountain with their own hands. In addition, you will create a design based only on your preferences and taste, which best suits your home interior. In addition, you will save significant money.

Materials and tools

So, if you don’t yet know how to make a mini fountain in your apartment, then read our step-by-step instructions. Before you begin this work, you need to purchase the necessary materials and tools.

• Fountain container. This could be a basin, a flower pot, or something else at your discretion.
• The hose used to clean the aquarium is about 10 cm long.
• Polyethylene in dimensions slightly larger than the container.
• Waterproof glue, expanded clay.
• Pump used for an aquarium.
• A medium or large sink, as well as stones or pebbles to strengthen it.
• Small shells and colored soil used for decoration.

The bowl for the fountain that we choose must be checked for cracks and holes to prevent future leaks.

Materials for the fountain

Pump installation

If you are making a tabletop fountain, then first you need to find a hose to work with, through which a stream of water will come out. To do this, cut 10 cm from a regular aquarium hose and insert it into the pump. Immediately check whether your system is in working condition, so as not to return to this issue later. We install the pump to the bottom of the container and fill it with expanded clay. Do not forget to level the surface after filling.

Final work

After you have filled in the expanded clay, you need to cover it with film, after making a hole for the hose. Then we pour decorative soil onto the film.

Note!

For a sea shell, it is advisable to make a base of stones and fix them to the shell using waterproof glue.

The next step is to push the tube through the stones and the sink, having previously made a hole in it. The end of the hose should protrude approximately 1 cm from the sink. The surface of the fountain should be decorated with stones and shells at your discretion. Thus, you have seen that you can make a tabletop fountain with your own hands without spending significant effort and money.

Advantages of a fountain without a pump

If you think that when constructing fountain structures you must use a mini fountain pump, then you are mistaken. You can make a small fountain without using a pump, and it will work solely thanks to the laws of physics.

Yes, in these designs there are some restrictions on the power of the jet, but you do not have to spend money on electricity and deal with the purchase and connections of the pump. You need to know that such a fountain should not be large, otherwise you will not be able to do without a pump.

Decorative fountain

How the fountain works

Such a fountain will work on the principle of communicating vessels, only with some features. They need to be placed at the same level, connected to each other by two tubes. It is better to take plastic containers and preferably of the same volume, and tubes with a minimum thickness for longer uninterrupted operation of the fountain. The tubes are inserted into the bottom of each vessel, into pre-drilled holes, which then need to be sealed.

Illuminated fountain

Final assembly and installation of the fountain

In order for such floor fountains to work without a pump, you need to use a third vessel with a volume equal to or larger than the previous two. To this vessel, in the walls, closer to the bottom, you make two more holes, into which you insert the two ends of tubes from smaller containers.

We also tightly seal the entrances of these tubes, and insert a T-shaped adapter into the bottom of a large vessel. After this, your fountain design is considered complete. All you have to do is decorate it according to your taste, preferences and combination with the interior of the apartment.

Garden fountain

Where can apartment fountains be installed? As you probably already understood from the above, apartment fountains come in a wide variety of types. In addition, they can be installed not only on the floor, but also on a table and even on a wall.

Note!

Tabletop structures are usually the smallest in size and can even be placed on bedside tables and windowsills.

Floor fountains depend on the size of your apartment and can have a very impressive appearance. Wall fountains look like real works of art and have the appearance of a panel or painting.

Their installation and manufacture, of course, is more complex and requires much more skills and material, but if you successfully execute your own, you will receive indescribable pleasure contemplating them.

Watch a video on how to make a decorative fountain in an apartment with your own hands:

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