A greater environmental consciousness around the globe is seeing many householders use solar powered pumps (rather than an engine powered by a fossil fuel) to create decorative garden features such as solar powered fountains or a solar powered bird bath. These garden features, powered directly from solar panels, will work whenever there is direct sunlight and the brighter the sun the stronger the flow. Some solar powered water installations will include a remote solar panel with enough wire to allow for the solar panel to be placed well away from the fountain. Solar power is a smart way to go in the garden when convenient electrical installation is not always possible.



Imagine the scene: you're sitting in your garden, you're dozing off the seductive sound of trickling water and chirping birds, and because you have the whole set-up powered by the sun; you know that you've created this little arcadia without putting a scratch on the environment. Because a solar power pump keeps water in constant motion, it is an ideal technology to attach to a birdbath. Water can bubbles gently upwards or with an extension, sprinkle down from above, enticing birds into your domain whilst eliminating standing water that can become contaminated with insects or bacteria. It is best in this situation, to re-circulate the water through a filter giving your feathery visitors both drinking water and a daily bathing space.

There are a number of different types of solar powered fountains - including copper fountains, cascading fountains, terracotta fountains and resin or ceramic fountains. Copper fountains are particularly appealing as the brushed copper finish will age to an elegant patina over time; but can also be polished if you desire a different effect. Cascading fountains which usually come in a 4 or 5 tier design can add a real air of serenity to your patio, balcony or garden. A low-voltage, solar powered pump sends water to the top vessel, where it trickles back down through the tiers to the basin in a continuous cycle. Terracotta fountains allow you to achieve a rustic feel whilst the wide range of colors available when it comes to ceramic designs will allow you to choose a fountain that will always blend in with its surroundings.

Prices for both the solar powered fountains and bird baths tend to be in the $100 - $200 range.

If it's not apparent already solar fountains and bird baths require direct sunlight to operate at full capacity so be sure that you have a sunny spot in which to place your fountain or birdbath.