For municipalities, recreational parks and water managers, it is important to keep ponds and water features both attractive and ecologically healthy. A commonly used method for this is the use of a fountain or aeration fountain. Although these installations appear similar on the face of it, their functions and technical characteristics are fundamentally different.
In this article, we explain which system best suits your issue – from aesthetics to water quality.
What is a fountain?
A traditional fountain is primarily a decorative element. Think of a fountain in an ornamental pond or at the entrance to a recreational area. The fountain appearance is determined by the pump power and the fountain head chosen and can be beautifully illuminated with LED lighting in white or RGBW light.
Technical properties of a fountain
Decorative and visual enhancement of a water feature in private, commercial or public ponds. The pump is selected for fountain height and fountain appearance.
The pumps must only operate in relatively clean water. To avoid fouling of the pump and fountain head, the pump is equipped with a suction basket, which should be checked regularly for fouling and growth of microorganisms that adhere to the basket.
A fountain is a fantastic addition to any water feature, maintenance is important to enjoy it for a long time. The frequency of maintenance depends greatly on the water quality.
Oxygen enrichment is limited to light surface circulation. Although a fountain creates water movement, it contributes little to the structural improvement of water quality. In stagnant or nutrient-rich waters, the potential for algal blooms or odor nuisance remains
What is an aeration fountain?
An aeration fountain – also called an aerator fountain – combines the visual effect of a fountain with active water aeration. This system is designed to increase oxygen levels in the water and improve biological balance.
Why choose aeration?
Aeration fountains are ideally suited for recreational lakes, park and fish ponds as well as private ponds with stagnant or barely flowing water. Movement and aeration of water is crucial for improving water quality and indispensable in any aquatic culture.
Ecological impact
Oxygen-rich water contributes to the biodegradation of organic matter in the water and removes harmful gases, which are extremely dangerous to fish and overall water quality.
Temperature reduction of warming surface water also prevents algae formation.
Technical properties of an aeration fountain
The large water displacement is achieved with a propeller pump and is highly dirt insensitive. Due to the high flow rate of the pump, oxygen is actively incorporated into the water stream.
One issue to consider is the noise level of an aeration fountain, the large displacement of water generates more noise than an ordinary fountain and this must be taken into account if there are homes, stores or other buildings close to the fountain.
💡 In practice, aeration fountains help achieve WFD goals and sustainable water management.
Aeration fountain as a sustainable investment
For managers, it is important that installations are not only functional, but also contribute to lower maintenance costs and a positive image among residents or visitors.
Conclusion
An ordinary fountain is mainly suitable for decorative applications. An aeration fountain, on the other hand, is a technical tool for effective water management. Especially in public spaces with stagnant or nutrient-rich water, an aeration fountain is a sustainable and visible investment in water quality, biodiversity and livability.
Need advice or quotation?
We advise municipalities, site managers and recreation operators in the selection and installation of fountains and aeration systems. Contact us for a site visit or a no-obligation technical analysis of your pond or water feature.