A solar bird bath fountain is a wonderful addition to any backyard. It does not just look great and offers a soft, gentle gurgling ambiance but it also attracts wildlife and offer animals a source of fresh water. As it is solar powered, it is fairly cost-effective, plus it requires fewer processes for its installation and maintenance as it doesn’t come with loud pumps or cords.
To get the right solar fountain, there are key aspects that you need to keep in mind including the design. What you want is to get the bird bath that feels natural. So, it should fit right into your existing outdoor space. A bright colored solar bird bath fountain is great for that light, airy feel. A darker stone, on the other hand, will offer some sense of style and traditional elegance.
Another choice that you would have to make is whether you want a foundation that’s single- or double-tiered. The double-tiered fountain can offer an amazing overall silhouette; however, it can become too much for its surrounding space. Analyze how it can impact your space. If it will boost the beauty and ambiance of your garden, then go for a double-tiered solar bird bath fountain.
The next thing that you need to consider is the solar bird bath’s material. Reinforced concrete, ceramic, and stone are all excellent choices. Ceramic and stone are more expensive in general, but they come with a high-end look and feel. As for reinforced concrete, it is often lighter and more durable from its engineered design. There are also plastic bird baths, but they are not recommended as they can get damaged by constant sun exposure.
They become brittle when they’re exposed to the harmful rays of the sun daily. A good guideline to remember when deciding on the material: the heavier the material is, the more likely it is to be of superior quality. The last thing you need to check is the power and size of the bath’s solar panel. The larger the panel is, the more power in Watts it can provide.
Are you thinking of complementing your garden with a charming fountain but are after an energy-efficient alternative that's good for the planet as well as your wallet? Bright choice! Solar fountains add a modern green element to timeless models, and they also make for a hassle-free installation.
In order to choose a solar fountain that you won't get tired of looking at for years, splash into our list of expert tips to figure out exactly what you need.
Versatile solar fountains come in lots of different models, but choosing a main category is the first step to narrow down your options and find the very best solar fountain for your garden and needs:
Floor: freestanding solar fountains look just like traditional models, but without all the hassle and planning involved with their installation;
Being moveable, they're a fantastic choice if you're planning on rearranging the layout of your garden and patio every once in a while, or if you're currently renting and would like to take it with you next time you move house;
Table: still moveable but smaller, table fountains can become the main accent element on your patio or garden furniture;
They will allow you to create a relaxing atmosphere when you sit outside by yourself or with your guests;
Wall: these solar fountains are a more permanent option that's better suited for houses with smaller gardens or with bare external walls that could do with some sprucing up;
Just make sure that you find a spot that gets a good few hours of sunlight!
Pond: rather than bring a water element to your garden, these fountains allow you to make the most of your existing pond by adding some splashing features;
Pond fountains usually look pretty similar, as they focus on the power and flow of the spray head rather than aesthetic designs.
In order to find the right size solar fountain for your garden or patio, you must think of it in relation to its surroundings:
Table fountains are usually under 2 feet tall;
The average wall and floor fountain is between 2 and 3";
Bigger models should only be considered in particularly large gardens so that they don't feel overwhelming and disproportionate, either when they're set to become the main focal point of that area or when they're placed next to rather bulky elements (such as a wide pond or a pergola).
While pond models mainly consist of a pump and spray head, wall, floor and table fountains come in lots of different designs.
They can sometimes fall into more than one category, but being able to identify them will allow you to have a good idea as to what you should look for before you start browsing:
Birdbath: whether you're after a traditional model or a more modern design, these fountains are characterized by their large top layer that is particularly inviting for birds; perfect if you'd like to combine the relaxing sound of the water with their adorable chirping!
Urn: if you already have some garden décor that draws inspiration from the immortal beauty of the classical world, an urn-shaped fountain would be the best way to complement it;
Sphere: this is one of the most versatile designs since, depending on the shape of its pedestal base, it can work in both traditional and modern décors; the ball can sometimes be spinning, too;
Tiered: these multi-layered fountains are one of the most popular designs; as well as ensuring an elegant, classic look, they also result in a pleasant, distinctive trickling sound;
Cascade-style: it follows the same layout as tiered fountains, but usually includes a more natural and romantic design;
Column: these fountains focus on a vertical design and usually feature sleek lines that make them perfect for modern décors;
Sculpture-style: not only is this the most elegant type of solar fountains, but it can also help you complement the style of your garden if you choose a sculpture that follows the same theme (for example, fantasy or coastal).
Cast stone and concrete offer plenty of designs to choose from and they're some of the most durable fountains; however, because of their porous nature, they're not suited for particularly cold climates where overnight freezing is common (unless you're happy to cover them);
If you're after the most durable fountains, look no further than metal, which works particularly well in modern settings;
Marble fountains are the most adequate to convey a classic feel; heavy and durable, each piece is literally one of a kind thanks to the unique patterns of their veins;
Ceramic models inspire a precious hand-made feel thanks to the differences in the clay; they're durable and easy to clean and maintain, but they can shatter if dropped;
Terracotta is very similar to ceramic but is characterized by a darker brownish color that can help you bring a warm Mediterranean feel into your garden;
If you fell in love with cast stone or marble fountains but are after a more budget-friendly alternative, check out polystone models: made to look like other materials, they're a cheaper and versatile alternative, around 80% lighter than most;
Wood is rarer in solar fountains and needs more maintenance to ensure its durability, but it might be what you're after if you'd like to maintain a natural look and turn your fountain into an extension of your garden;
Once you've got the aesthetic side sorted, you could even consider some handy extra features to personalize your experience:
Flow rate control: it lets you change how much water trickles through your fountain, consequently resulting in a louder or more tranquil sound;
Lights: if you enjoy hanging out in your garden after the sun's gone down, choosing a solar fountain with lights will allow you to make the most of it even in the dark; these models usually charge during the day in order to last throughout the night.
