Choosing the Perfect Scott Fountain: A Comprehensive Guide to Features and Types

Adding a pond fountain to your outdoor space can transform it into a peaceful oasis. The sound of trickling water can create a calming atmosphere that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Furthermore, the visual appeal of a pond fountain can add an element of beauty and serenity to any pond, large or small.

With so many options, selecting the right pond fountain can seem overwhelming. It is crucial to consider several factors, such as the size and depth of your pond, the type of fountain you want, and the features you require. Ignoring any of these factors could result in a fountain that doesn't meet your needs or even causes damage to your pond.

Investing in a high-quality Scott fountain can offer numerous benefits. Aeration fountains, for example, can help maintain the health of your pond by improving water circulation and oxygen levels. Furthermore, fountain lighting can enhance the ambiance of your outdoor space, allowing you to enjoy your pond fountain day or night.

Choosing the right pond fountain requires carefully considering and evaluating your needs. With the right fountain, you can create a peaceful and beautiful outdoor space that you can enjoy for years to come.

Size and Depth of Your Pond

The first factor to consider when choosing a pond fountain is the size and depth of your pond. The size of your pond will determine the size of the fountain you can install. If you have a small pond, a small fountain may be sufficient. However, if you have a large pond, you will need a larger fountain to make an impact and to properly aerate.

The depth of your pond will also play a role in your choice of a fountain. If your pond is less than 7 feet in average depth, either a decorative or aerating fountain can be used. If your pond is deeper, for proper aeration you will need to purchase a bottom aeration unit, which consists of an on-shore compressor which pumps air to diffusers which sit at the bottom of your pond.

Type of Fountain

When choosing a pond fountain, it's important to consider the different types available to determine which one best suits your needs. The three main types of pond fountains are floating decorative fountains, floating aerating fountains, and stationary fountains.

1. Floating Decorative Fountains:

Floating fountains are designed to float on the water's surface and are easy to install and move. They consist of a float, which suspends a pump beneath it, and a nozzle on top of the float to create a display pattern. The pumps use impellers, rather than propellers, to move the water. They are ideal for ponds when the most intricate display patterns are desired. Sometimes the nozzles can be adjusted to different heights, making them versatile and customizable. Scott Fountains as a general rule provide the tallest displays. But the drawback is that to reach great heights flow is restricted and they don’t move as much water because of this restriction. Thus, aeration will be limited by the restriction. A Kasco Fountain typically offers more aeration but the displays are not as tall. We also offer our discount line of floating fountains, complete kits with floats, pumps, filter baskets, nozzle kits, and mooring rope. Various displays are included with all of these kits depending on the type of spray nozzle

The advantages and disadvantages of each are these:

• Kasco Marine offers 2-5 year warranties on pumps and include a control panel, whereas all Scott fountains include a 5-year warranty. Fountain Tech fountains (our discount line) include warranties of 1 year to 18 months, depending on the model.
  
  
• Replacement parts can be purchased for all of the fountain brands we offer. Kasco pumps can be rebuilt at the factory. Scott fountains do not need to be removed from the pond during winter.
  
  
• Floating fountains are often equipped with lights, creating a stunning display of light and water at night. These fountains are also low-maintenance and easy to clean.

All of these fountains will aerate but to varying degrees depending on which submersible fountains are installed

 

2. Aerating Fountains:

Aerating fountains aerate more than decorative fountains by using a propeller instead of an impeller. They don’t use a nozzle but rather the propeller creates the display, which is always the V-pattern. Thus, there is not as much emphasis on versatile display patterns but there is an emphasis on aeration. They are still quite lovely to look at, but the display is always a “V’ shape.

Aeration is essential for the health of fish and other aquatic life and reduces mosquito breeding, stagnation, algae, malodorous environments, and build up of muck at bottom of the pond.  These fountains, like decorative fountains, work by drawing water from the bottom of the pond and dispersing it on the surface, increasing oxygen levels and improving water circulation. Aerating fountains can also be equipped with lights, making them a popular choice for pond owners who are putting more emphasis on aeration and less on versatility and height of display patterns.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Kasco versus Scott Aerating Fountains:
Just like decorative fountains, Scott aerating fountains always include a 5-year warranty and do not need to be removed during winter. If you are in a very cold climate with ponds that ice over, it is recommended you remove Kasco units during the winter. Warranties are 2-3 years though motors are rebuildable. Kasco units tend to be the most energy-efficient. Fountain Tech does not include aerating fountains, as all of the pumps in that line of fountains use an impeller and nozzles.

3. Stationary fountains

Stationary fountains do not include a float. They are, as their name implies, stationary, and require a constant level of pond water or their nozzles will sink below the pond’s surface. These are sometimes used in business parks and use either a submersible pump or an inline pump at the shore.

4. Surface Aerators:

Plain surface aerators are the most efficient type of surface aerators as they don’t really include a display, other than large bubbles above the float. Flow has very little restriction on it so that more water volume is pumped. This option is used when the highest level of aeration is necessary.

5. Aerating a Pond Deeper than 7 Feet in Average Depth

If your pond is deeper than 7’ feet, on average, you really need to purchase a bottom aerator for proper aeration of the water. Notice the air bubbles rise from the bottom via a diffuser.

Choosing the right type of pond fountain depends on several factors, such as the size and depth of your pond, the effect you want to create, and the level of maintenance required. Floating fountains are easy to install and move and are ideal for ponds when a stationary fountain is not a reasonable option. Decorative fountains provide the most versatile display patterns but aerate less than aerating fountains. Aerating fountains provide a great deal more aeration but are limited to the “V” pattern and don’t display as tall as decorative floating fountains. Plain surface aerators provide the most aeration of all, but their displays are limited to large bubbles.

Features

The final factor to consider when choosing a pond fountain is the required features. Some features to evaluate include:

1. Lights:
   
   
   
   Adding pond fountain lights can create an entirely different ambiance in the evening or at night. The lighting feature can enhance the fountain's visual appeal and provide a calming atmosphere to your outdoor space. The lights can be positioned to illuminate the fountain's water flow, creating a breathtaking view. The lighting can come in various colors, and some fountains offer the option to change the color of the lights to match your mood or occasion.
   
   
2. Spray Patterns: The fountain's spray patterns determine the water flow's shape and direction as well as the amount of flow. Some fountains offer interchangeable spray patterns, so you can choose different displays without purchasing a new fountain or new nozzle. Changing the spray pattern can also create a different effect, enhancing the visual appeal of the fountain. For example, a fountain with a single-tier spray pattern may create a gentle and calming spray of water, while a triple-tier spray pattern may create a more dramatic water display.
   
   
3. Automatic Timers: If you don't want to turn your fountain on and off manually, consider a fountain with an automatic timer. This feature allows you to set a specific time for the fountain to turn on and off, saving you time and effort. As mentioned above, all Kasco fountains come complete with a control panel, which includes a timer, photocell for lights, and GFCI. Both Scott and Fountain Tech fountain models do not include a timer, but you can usually purchase a reliable outdoor timer for under 20 dollars on Amazon. The automatic timer feature also ensures that your fountain is not left running for too long, which will increase energy costs.
   
   
4. Adjustable Flow: Some fountains offer the option to adjust the water flow, allowing you to create different effects. The adjustable flow feature lets you control the water flow's height and width, depending on your preference. This feature is useful to create a more subtle or dramatic effect with your fountain.
   
   
5. Warranty: Before purchasing a pond fountain, it is important to check if it comes with a warranty. A warranty can protect your investment by ensuring you are covered for any defects or damages. A fountain with a warranty gives you peace of mind and can save you money in the long run by covering repair or replacement costs.

When choosing a pond fountain, it is essential to consider the features that best suit your needs. Lights can enhance the ambiance of your outdoor space, while interchangeable spray patterns and adjustable flow can create different water effects. An automatic timer can save you time and energy, and a warranty can protect your investment. Considering these features, you can select a pond fountain that meets your specific needs and enhances your outdoor space's visual appeal and calming atmosphere.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pond fountain requires careful consideration of several factors, including the size and depth of your pond, the type of fountain you want, and the required features. By evaluating these factors, you can find a pond fountain that meets your needs and adds beauty and relaxation to your outdoor space. Check our Scott fountain collection and choose the one that you like.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what size pond fountain I need?

The size of the pond fountain you need depends on the size of your pond. For surface pond fountains and aerators, you will need to know length x width of your pond (surface acreage). For ponds deeper than 7 feet, you will need to know acre feet.

Aeration Capabilities of Decorative Fountains, Aerating Fountains, and Aerators

Kasco recommends:

Pond Size	Decorative Fountain	Aerating Fountain	Aerator
½ acre	1 HP	¾ HP	½ HP
1 acre	2 HP	1 ½ HP	1 HP
2 acre	4 HP	3 HP	2 HP
3 acre	6 HP	4.5 HP	3 HP
5 acre	10 HP	7.5 HP	5 HP

 *These recommendations above are for Kasco units only. Different brands use different pump and nozzle combinations and these figures do not work for them!

You can use our pond size and electricity calculator to easily calculate pond size.

Can I install a pond fountain, or must I hire a professional?

Installing a pond fountain can be a DIY project, but it depends on the type of fountain you choose and your level of expertise. Floating fountains are easy to install and require no plumbing or electrical work, making them ideal for DIY installation. As long as it is a 120v unit, it is plug in and play. For 220v we recommend an electrician install.

How do I maintain my pond fountain?

Proper maintenance is essential to keep your pond fountain running smoothly. Regularly cleaning your fountain would be best, removing any debris or algae that may clog the fountain's nozzles. It is also important to periodically check the fountain's pump and filter and replace damaged parts. Additionally, you should winterize your fountain in colder months by removing it from the pond and storing it in a dry, cool place unless you are purchasing a Scott fountain, which requires no removal during the winter.

Can I leave my pond fountain running all the time?

You can always leave your pond fountain running, which will increase your energy costs but might be necessary for proper aeration. Kasco fountains come with an automatic timer that allows you to set the fountain to turn on and off at specific times, reducing energy costs. It is also important to note that running your fountain constantly may increase evaporation and water loss, so you may need to add water to your pond more frequently. But constant running is often necessary for aerating your pond.

Can I use a pond fountain in a natural or wildlife pond?

Yes, you can use a pond fountain in a natural or wildlife pond, but choosing a fountain that will not harm the wildlife or disrupt the natural ecosystem is important. Aerating fountains are a good choice for natural ponds, as they increase oxygen levels and promote the health of aquatic life. Choosing a fountain that is safe for wildlife and does not include harmful chemicals or materials is also important. Always consult a professional if you are unsure about the best fountain for your pond.