| You have probably heard it is very easy to | | | | Using solar power as your energy source allows |
| create your own garden fountain using a solar | | | | you greater flexibility when choosing a location for |
| pump, but after receiving your pump you may | | | | your fountain, but you should still select an area |
| have no idea what to do. After all, why should | | | | where the solar panel can receive maximum |
| you pay someone to install a solar pump when it | | | | sunlight. The longer the panel is placed in the sun, |
| is so easy to do yourself? Follow these 3 easy | | | | the longer your fountain will work. Some models |
| tips and you should accomplish your task, | | | | come with on/off switches that work off a |
| enjoying your new fountain with very little hassle. | | | | charged battery system that the solar panel |
| 1. Prime the Pump | | | | charges, but most are a direct source conversion |
| Any type of pump, whether it is a regular water | | | | of sunlight into water power. It will make a |
| pump or a solar pump, cannot function properly | | | | difference in the operation of the pump if the |
| when it is pumping air. In order to "prime" the | | | | solar panel does not receive enough sunlight. |
| pump, put it in water so that the intake can fill | | | | 3. Keep the Water Free of Debris |
| with water and remove the air. This does not | | | | Most solar pumps come with a filter which |
| take very much time at all and is an essential | | | | prevents debris from clogging the fountain intake. |
| step in the installation process. This step should be | | | | However, the type of water being used in the |
| done anytime the pump is not completely | | | | fountain can affect this. The purer the water, the |
| submerged into water. If you remove your | | | | more efficient the pump will be. Even with regular |
| fountain at the end of the season when cold | | | | tap water you could experience a build up of |
| weather sets in, it will need to be primed again | | | | minerals from the water in the pump. If you wish |
| when you are ready to use it in warmer weather. | | | | to prevent mineral build-up, use distilled water in |
| 2. Place the Solar Panel in Full Sun | | | | your fountain. |