Water Fountains: Functions, Types And Benefits

Filed under: Gardening    

Water fountains always have in them a unique element that simply makes them stand out among other water features. Fountains are often known for their ability to induce tranquility in the place where they are installed. They can function both as indoor and outdoor decorations, or they could also serve as havens for birds in the form of birdbaths. Regardless of their varying functions and structures, the only thing that matters the most is that they would be used and innovated for more years to come.

Researches have shown that from as far back as 3000 BC fountains have already been in use. In ancient Egypt, the use of fountains were apparent as seen from their tomb paintings, while in Persia during that same period, these water features were considered as symbolic representations of paradise. Meanwhile, ancient Romans and Greeks utilized wall fountain and floor fountain pieces as their official public baths and drinking stations, while in China where large piazzas were made, sculptured fountains were used as centerpieces. From these perspectives alone, it can be easily regarded that fountains play an important role in the establishment of ancient civilizations because they are essential water reservoirs.

Water fountains work through gravitational force, and such power could be achieved with the help of three important parts”"reservoir, pump and fountain head. All fountains have reservoirs from which water is drawn and flows back at. It is the pump that moves the water; its spinning impeller runs in an accelerated speed producing centrifugal force that forces the water out of the pump. The water then goes to the fountain head and is sprinkled through the nozzle, cascades outside of the fountain and flows back into the reservoir.

There are various types of fountains that could either be used indoor or outdoor, or for residential or commercial purposes. The smallest of them all are designed for tabletops. A floor fountain is a freestanding fountain type designed as statement feature used both for indoor and outdoor spaces. Wall fountains, as their name implies, are used as wall-mounted features. Garden fountains on the other hand are larger and are commonly used as centerpieces for large outdoor spaces and may take the forms of sculpted topiary and series of connected pools.

The use of fountains could provide health and wellness benefits among homeowners. A simple indoor wall fountain could actually become a decorative feature and a source of pleasure at the same time. The soothing sound of cascading water could induce relaxation, stress reduction and comfort that are not easily achievable especially in urban areas. Similarly, these water features have the ability to humidify and add moisture to rooms, which sanitizes the air you breath and in some instances also function as sources of drinking water for pets.

All in all, water fountains are renowned water features that are consistently innovated and improved through the years. From the ancient times to date, they emerged probably as one of the most important man-made structures. Likewise, their various purposes make these pieces one of the most multifunctional articles of accents. No wonder, many commercial and residential places are filled with these water features.

Water fountains have long been used throughout history. In fact, these water features can be considered as the most popular multifunctional decorative fixtures to date. Fountains come in differing styles and finishes, the most common of which are the floor fountain and indoor wall fountain designs. Actually, the decorative value as well as the multifunctional use of these features has been their selling points since yesteryears.

- Wyatt Fisk