Posts Tagged ‘Buying Tips’

« Older Entries

Tips to Keep in Mind when Shopping for Indoor Fountains

There are many different types of indoor fountains available today. In fact, there are so many different styles and designs of indoor fountains that you may find yourself wondering which type of fountain will best match your needs. Keeping a few shopping guidelines in mind can help you to find an indoor fountain that will meet all of your needs.

One tip to keep in mind when shopping for an indoor fountain is the sound of the fountain. Perhaps one of the best features of an indoor fountain is the soothing sound that it makes, so you certainly will want to make sure you choose a fountain that can be easily heard over any other sounds that may be present in the area where the fountain will be placed. This will allow you to enjoy the fountain to the greatest extent possible.

You should also consider whether you want a wall fountain, tabletop fountain or a standing floor fountain. Consider where you would like to place the fountain and which design would best suit that space. Wall fountains are ideal for homes as well as offices and create a stunning focal point in any space. A standing wall fountain is a good choice if you prefer not to mount a fountain to the wall for some reason, but still want a fountain that will make a striking statement. If you do not have a lot of space but want to enjoy the look and feel of a fountain, a tabletop fountain is a good choice.

Keeping these shopping tips in mind will allow you to choose an indoor fountain that is ideal for your chosen space as well as enjoy all of the many benefits associated with the use of a fountain indoors.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

The Different Types of Wall Fountains

When shopping for a mounted wall fountain you may notice that there are two basic types of fountains available. They are dedicated water source fountains and re-circulating fountains. Which type of system is best for your needs when choosing a wall fountain? The answer to this primarily depends on the amount of water that will be used. Other important factors include the rate of water loss due to evaporation and possible splashing if it is an outdoor wall fountain.

A re-circulating mounted wall fountain is one of the most common type of wall fountains. These types of wall fountains are typically utilized in homes and small offices. A pump is used with this type of wall fountain to circulate the water throughout the entire fountain. A reservoir pan is also usually utilized with this type of fountain design in order to hold the water until it is recirculated. With this form of fountain, you can place it almost anywhere in your home or office and not have to worry about having an additional source of water to operate the fountain.

A dedicated wall fountain is usually used with larger fountains in public locations. These are often commercial fountains that can use thousands of gallons of water. In order to maintain the desired effect, the fountain may need as much as 100 gallons of water per day. While this is not always the case, a dedicated wall fountain will often require working with a plumber and contractor.

Most of the wall fountains used in homes and offices today are re-circulating fountains. The advantage of this fountain is that you do not need a dedicated water source. The water used in the fountain is continually repeated throughout the entire day provided that the fountain is turned on.

Tags: , ,
Posted in Fountain Buying Tips, Fountains & Interior Design, Office Fountains | No Comments »

Why Can’t Indoor Fountains Be Used Outdoors?

Here’s a question why is there such a thing as  indoor water fountains and an outdoor fountains? Shouldn’t you be able to take a fountain inside or outside at will? Well, there are some fountains that do have this feature. However, most of the indoor fountains you see advertised cannot be taken outside. Why?

Most interior fountains are electrically powered. They have power cords and plugs as well as built-in lighting. Outdoor fountains are specially made and have UL-approved grounding plugs. These plugs protect the fountain from electric shock in the event of moisture occurring. Additionally, there are shroud devices that protect the lights from moisture. Just imagine if your indoor water fountains powered by electricity met up with moisture from the outside world!

The outdoor water fountain (made for this traveling purpose) usually has a special finish that interior fountains don’t have. That means the finish can stand up to wet weather and other earthy elements. If you put an indoor water fountain outside then rest assured, before long, the finish would peel, crack, fade and slowly deteriorate into nothing. Not only can moisture affect the finish, but sunlight and wind are similarly destructive. Outdoor water fountains are made with a special sealant that preserves the look of the fountain. Why some are even “made to age”, and increase in their visual richness as time goes by. Not so, with a traditionally built indoor water fountain.

Just as using interior fountains outside is not a good idea, neither is using an outside fountain inside. Why? Because these outdoor water fountains are created in order to allow a certain level of splashing. This way, the water sounds (not to mention the cascading features) create specific effects.

Simply put, an outdoor water fountain can ruin your carpeting and your precious wooden floors in a hurry. You could also open up your home to a liability risk if people should start tripping. Indoor fountains are specifically made to protect against accidental splashing.

If you still have doubts or questions, what you might try doing is talking to a contractor in your area. He will be able to tell you about the pros and cons of using an exterior fountain inside or vice versa.

Please note that some fountain makers actually offer a special provision where they can make an indoor fountain compatible with an outside environment. The company might ask an additional fee for this add-on, but this could be precisely what you need to complete your home or office fountain project.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Fountain Buying Tips | No Comments »

Water Fountain Safety Tips

What should you know about water fountain safety? Whether you have a garden fountain outside, a tabletop fountain or a mounted wall water fountain, there are some general tips you want to remember to keep you and others in your company safe.

First of all, understand that protecting people from slipping is a major concern, even if you have a home fountain. Legal liability for an injury can be a problem at work or at home if someone slips because of a faulty fountain (or even the awkward placement of a fountain).

First off, it’s best to have an electrician install a power outlet right behind your wall mounted fountain. When you’re using a standard plug, the outlet must be recessed. Also, the cords that hang from the bottom of this wall-mounted device can be hazardous. Wiring about fountains is especially dangerous to children. The use of extension cords is highly discouraged as these have caused accidents in the past.

When you are working with wall mounted fountains, be sure to hang the item on the wall using the provided brackets. Make sure that the brackets are sturdy or else use your own anchors. Lightweight fountains are sometimes connected with nails; if so, make sure these fountains are high above the reach of children or pets.

A tabletop fountain should only be placed on a level surface. If the fountain is situated on a crooked setting it will splash unevenly and this could cause leakage to the ground below. Make sure the fountain is not splashing outside of the basin, because even a small amount of water can trip somebody.

You must make sure that the water inside mounted wall water fountains is always moving and re-circulating. Stagnant water is a health risk. If you unplug the fountain then you must replace the stagnant water. Harmful bacteria can grow in stagnant water. These pests can cause all sorts of diseases. Moving water though, has oxygen, and this impedes bacterial development.

This understanding applies to all forms of fountains, from wall mounted fountains to tabletops and garden fountains. In addition to preventing bacteria, you also want to discourage the formation of algae and mineral scale. Mounted wall water fountains will require water treatment for cleanliness. However, it’s advised that you only use chemical free treatments and child-safe treatments. In addition to applying this treatment you should attempt to clean the fountain regularly.

A mounted wall water fountain should be disassembled and cleaned thoroughly once every 12 months. However, the water itself should be replaced quarterly. These tips can help keep friends and family safe throughout the seasons.

Tags: , ,
Posted in Fountain Buying Tips | No Comments »

Understanding Different Fountain Water Sources

You will notice that mounted wall fountains come in two types: re-circulating fountains and a dedicated water source. What determines which system is used? It mainly depends on how much water is being used. The rate of evaporation and water loss (resulting from splashing) is also important.

First, consider re-circulating mounted wall fountains. The fountains that are usually used inside small offices or residential homes have a pump. This pump circulates the water throughout the whole fountain. The fountain has a reservoir pan which holds the water until recirculation. This model allows the fountain to be put practically anywhere, and does not require an additional source of water.

A dedicated wall mounted fountain, or any fountain with a dedicated source of water, is usually made for larger fountains in public places. These are commercial fountains and they may move upwards of several thousand gallons of water. They may actually require up to 100 gallons a day to sustain the effect. Remember that waterfalls and fountains can evaporate slightly, which requires an additional water source.

Of course, just because a wall mounted fountain requires a dedicated source doesn’t mean that it has to be a specially built, high-tech gadget. The source could be something as simple as a garden hose. Usually though, constructing these fountains does involve working with a contractor and plumber.

The mounted wall fountains you see in offices and homes today are usually re-circulating types of fountains. They don’t require their own constantly moving water source. They simply pump the water to the top of the fountain using the small electric pump inside the system. The water runs down the fountain’s surface and goes into the reservoir pan. This is repeated throughout the day as long as the fountain is on.

However, even mounted wall fountains require additional water. All fountains, even smaller ones, evaporate. In fact, the drier your air is the more water you must add. If you have cold temperatures or use a lot of gas heat in your house, you will need to add an above average amount of water. In order to remember this important step, just start adding water to your fountain at the same time you water your plants!

The majority of wall mounted fountains you see are re-circulated fountains. However, some companies do actually carry dedicated source fountains. You can choose to custom-build your own fountain/fall or choose from the most popular selections.

Tags: , ,
Posted in Fountain Buying Tips | No Comments »

Top 10 Reasons to Purchase a Water Fountain

Are you looking for a few good reasons to buy indoor water fountains? There are numerous aesthetic, financial and health benefits to consider. Here are ten to consider.

1. Indoor fountains provide soothing sounds of water flowing. Many people report that these sounds are relaxing and can decrease stress. Human beings have always been drawn to water. We need it for its natural healing power and its calming effects.

2. An indoor water fountain adds a strong focal point to any room of the house. Fountains can be used for decoration purposes and are attractive to crowds. You might even say that a good fountain can turn an average room into a spa. Since this device is a focal point it can detract attention from other flaws.

3. An indoor fountain is loud enough to drown out unpleasant background noise. However, the noise quality of a water flow is never disturbing or disruptive. It can get rid of traffic noise or other minor annoyances.

4. Indoor water fountains can increase humidity, which has many beneficial effects. We are constantly losing humidity due to heat and cold temperatures. Unlike a humidifier device though, these fountains work naturally and do not have any risk of condensation damage or mildew.

5. Indoor fountains emit negative ions. These are the same ions that are found around waterfalls and mountains. They can improve your breathing because of improved air quality. This improved air causes beneficial reactions in your body that can help relieve stress and fatigue.

6. An indoor water fountain contains positive energy, as explained in Feng Shui. When you promote the flow of positive energy you can increase the enjoyment and success of your life.

7. An indoor fountain can help children and adults fall asleep faster, as the sound of a calm water fountain helps people to relax. Such calming flows also mask loud noises of the night.

8. Pets can appreciate positive energy…beyond that, they just like fresh, running water by instinct. If you have ever seen your dog and cat drinking from a running tap or a hose, you can imagine how popular your fountain will be.

9. Indoor water fountains are easy to set up and maintain. Most fountains you see advertised for sale are self-re-circulating and self-contained. They do not require extra assembly or maintenance.

10. Fountains are affordable! You can find a water fountain that’s ideal for your budget and your home personality. There are a variety of fountains available online.

These are ten good reasons that say it’s hard to pass up indoor water fountains!

Tags: , ,
Posted in Fountain Buying Tips | No Comments »

Tabletop Water Fountains as Corporate Gifts

What better way to show your professional respect than with indoor tabletop fountains? Rather than give the same old boring corporate gifts every year, why not broaden out with a fountain? What good is a fountain and why is it a good idea as a work-related gift?

Many  indoor tabletop fountains provide various health benefits in addition to providing a colorful and eye-pleasing appearance. There are a wide variety of fountains available. Fountains can help hard workers to relax, breathe in cleaner air and decorate their desk area in style. Whether you are reaching out to customers, clients or simply want to take care of your own employees, a tabletop fountain is the ideal selection.

These fountains are made with a high standard of craftsmanship. Some of these fountains can even be custom designed. Imagine having the ability to custom-make a fountain with a company logo or an employee’s name. These products are fun to exchange and are one-of-a-kind craft pieces.

A tabletop fountain can fit right on top of a desk or a table. They can be purchased as holiday presents, end of the year presents or even special motivational gifts. When you order indoor tabletop fountains you may be able to get discounts on quantity purchases.

Buying tabletop falls or fountains can help you to maintain good business relations, keep customers, interest new customers or endear yourself to a team of employees. At the same time, if you take the opportunity to promote your company, you can increase the value of the brand name in the employee and whoever else he has contact with. This is ideal for improving customer relations.

Some businesses use indoor tabletop fountains to show appreciate for client loyalty or for a business referral. There’s no question that such a gift can go a long way in motivating a team. A company owner shows by way of such a gift that he/she values his/her employees and their hard work.

Last but not least, don’t forget using tabletop fountains as a means of celebration or congratulating. Celebrating a worker’s achievement (a promotion, a new project or another professional accomplishment) shows that you care. This is a great gift for company owners, and even for employees who are ready to support their co-workers.

A tabletop fountain is a unique way to express concern for a professional acquaintance. Nowadays, good business relationships depend on goodwill and communication. If your company is to expand, you must take the initiative. This type of unique present will not disappoint!

Tags: ,
Posted in Fountain Buying Tips | No Comments »

Pets and Fountains: Are they Safe?

As you may or may not know, pets of all sorts can drink out of tabletop water fountains. Naturally, you do have to maintain your fountain and ensure that it is clean and properly treated. Is there anything you should know about pets and fountains? Is there any risk of disease if a pet were to take a few gulps out of your relaxing fountain?

First of all, understand that pets can drink out of any fountain if the water is clean. Pets will actually seek these fountains out, because the splashy current of water is instinctively attractive to them. The sound of running water will attract your cat, dog or even bird to the fountain and many will adopt the fountain as their own. There is no risk of disease or sickness if you keep the water safe from bacteria and algae.

The only concerns you might have would be the sudden disappearance of your water as well as the appearance of animal dander inside the fountain. If your pet frequently drinks from the table fountain then be careful to replace the water on a regular basis. The pump can be damaged if it is trying to re-circulate a minimal amount of water.

Some people do not want their fountain hairy and so limit a pet’s access to the fountain. If pet dander is becoming a problem for you, then you have the option of pet-proofing the fountain. (Also realizing that a build up of pet hair can effect the operation of the fountain)

What you might try to do is protect the pump itself from getting clogged. You can do this by cutting a length of sheer pantyhose and putting it over the pump device. Tie both ends and make sure they are tight. The hose will stop small debris from getting sucked inside the rotors. Otherwise, if you see large debris accumulating in the tabletop water fountain, then simply replace the water.

If you decide that your beloved Fido is qualified to drink from the tabletop fountain then be sure to replace the water often, and clean the fountain regularly. When cleaning the device, wipe it thoroughly and then refill it. Rinse very well. If your pet only occasionally drinks from the table fountain then you treating the water may suffice. If you are using treatment for algae or scale then make sure the treatment is pet-friendly.

Remember though that tabletop water fountains are not a replacement for a regular water dish. Your pet should always have plenty of fresh water and clean water available throughout the house. A healthy pet is a hydrated one!

Tags: ,
Posted in Fountain Buying Tips | No Comments »

How to Shop for Fountains Online

There sure are a lot of water fountain retailers online! How can you possibly decide what type of fountain to get and what type of company to buy it from? Consider some of the most important factors involved in choosing a fountain.

First of all, buy within your budget. This doesn’t mean just looking for the cheapest listed price. Take into consideration price matching guarantees. Be sure to compare online sales with retail store prices. Don’t take for granted the price match guarantee. What if you can get the same price on a water fountain but from a better quality company?

You also have to consider shipping costs when ordering fountains online. Some retailers may show a low price on their website but charge unusually high shipping costs. When cost-feasible, try and go with the company that offers flat-rate shipping or free shipping. As you can probably guess, large water fountains can be a expensive when it comes to shipping.

Make sure the company selling the water fountains has a return policy. The company should be flexible in their policy and offer a “no hassle” type of return contract. If the product in unsatisfying you don’t want to spend time on the phone arguing with employees! Just remember to return the product within 30 days. (Note that clearance items and custom-orders are usually not eligible for returns)

You want to make sure the company you work with is trustworthiness and has good communication. Make sure that you can reach an employee by phone if you have to. You might try talking to someone in person before you buy. Be wary of any companies that do not provide contact information like an address or a phone number.  Ask the company’s representative how long the company has been in business, the longer the company has been business usually the more knowledgeable about the products and the industry.

Lastly, when purchasing a water fountain make sure that the source knows what it’s talking about. Pay attention to the web copy and verify that the customer representatives can answer technical questions about their products. Look for companies that have detailed FAQ pages. The more helpful the company is, the more likely they are to sell you a quality product.

Water fountains have many health benefits and are of great aesthetic interest. Not only do they attract attention (from customers, clients and the general public) but they also help to circulate the air and increase the humidity. They also provide a nice sound of flowing water that can easily lull a person to sleep. Fountains make for a friendlier and far more enjoyable environment!

Tags: ,
Posted in Fountain Buying Tips | No Comments »

How to Determine the Right Size for Your Water Fountain

Are you interested in a wall fountain for your home or office? Whether you want a fountain for your wall, tabletop or courtyard, you will enjoy the prestige and comfort this device brings you. Wall fountains are especially popular, considering that they can adapt to almost any living situation. However, right about now you may be wondering just what size of wall hanging fountain do you need. How can you tell? After all, you certainly do not want to order the wrong size of wall fountain, put it up and realize that it doesn’t fit your wall!

For starters, before buying any selection of wall fountains make sure to check your living area (or work office) for available space. Pay close attention to the wall length and the height of the ceiling. If you have a high ceiling then ideally, you are looking for a fountain that is tall or vertical size wall fountain.   If the wall is long and has an average height for the ceiling, or perhaps smaller than average height, then your best bet is a horizontal wall fountain.

You want to avoid a tall vertical fountain for a wide wall, unless you have other plans for filling up the sides. You also have to give some attention to the depth of space. If the fountain will be situated in a hallway, for example, then the average depth you are looking for would have to be relatively small. Some people might say six inches is a good figure, but remember you don’t want the fountain to jut out too far. This could cause your guests to run into the fountain or get themselves wet by brushing up against it.

In general, a wall fountain is supposed to open up a space, not crowd it. An ideal place for a fountain would be an empty wall, not a cluttered wall. What you might try is getting the measurements of the fountain you like and then measuring your wall beforehand. You could keep track of these measurements by using tacks, tape or even post it notes. These will act as your reference. Create four corners using these objects that will represent the four corners of the fountain. Now that you have these measurements in place you can back up and observe what looks acceptable. Some users will actually go so far as to create a template fountain using poster board. (You simply cut them into measurable pieces)

In any event, a wall hanging fountain will provide you a great deal of comfort and excitement, whether you welcome clients or guests. Using these tips you can decide the best place to put your wall hanging fountains so they will attract attention!

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Fountain Buying Tips | No Comments »

« Older Entries