If you are curious about how solar panels work, or you just want a fun solar project to work on, you can build your own solar fountain in a weekend. It’s a simple project that you can do by yourself or with the kids to learn about solar energy. Here are the basics of what is involved.

The first thing you want to do is choose the design you want. Would you like a waterfall or a bubbling stream? Sometimes it is helpful to look through landscaping magazines or browse the Internet to get ideas on what kind of style, shape and size you are looking to create. You also want to decide whether your fountain will be in a fixed location or if it will be able to be moved from place to place.

Your next step is to choose which kind of pump you will use to move the water. Depending on the size of your fountain you will need to determine the numbe of gallons perminute and the vertical lift of the water that your pump will need to handle. You will get this information based on the volume and height of your fountain’s design. For example, a tall waterfall fountain requires a more powerful pump than a smaller and lower babbling brook design. You want to pick a pump that is designed to be completely immersed in water and runs on direct (DC) current.

Picking out and purchasing your solar panels is your next step. These can usually be found at your local home improvement stores or online. The size of the solar panel you will need is determined by the energy requirements of the pump you choose and the amount of sunlight your fountain will receive. If you are using a powerful pump that will move a lot of water with a long vertical drop you might need to choose a larger panel. This also goes for a fountain that is located in an overcast region or shady area. You can use smaller solar panels if you want to slow down the pump, or if your fountain will receive lots of direct sunlight every day.

Prior to connecting the pump to the solar panel you want to assemble all the components of the fountain (if it has several tiers or basins) and hook up the pump and hose. Test the fountain for any flow and leak problems. While it is on regular electricity pour enough water through it, using a bucket or hose, to make sure that it works as intended.

Once everything is working properly you can hook up the pump and the PV panel. Depending on the placement of your solar panel you will notice that your fountain will slow down or speed up depending on placement. Now, since everything is working correctly you can install your fountain in its permanent location and enjoy your hard work.

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