A well-installed fountain runs evenly, stays level and is easy to maintain. A rushed install can lead to uneven flow, a tilted basin or a pump that's hard to reach. This guide covers the key stages of installing an outdoor fountain, from choosing the spot to switching it on.
Our Fountain Installation Guide gives detailed instructions for our large tiered concrete bird fountain, and there's an installation video as well. The principles below apply to most outdoor fountains, but always follow the instructions for your specific model.
We sell and deliver across the US and internationally, and we install within 100 miles of Anaheim. If you're within our install area, contact us and we can handle the installation. Everyone else can use this guide as a checklist for a DIY install or for working with a local contractor.
1. Choose the spot
Consider:
- Viewing angles. Where will you see and hear it most?
- Power. Pump cords are typically 10–15 feet, according to our installation guide. You'll need a GFCI-protected outdoor outlet within reach.
- Ground conditions. Avoid soft soil, slopes and areas that flood.
- Trees. Overhanging trees drop leaves into the water, which means more cleaning.
- Access. Leave room to walk around the fountain for maintenance, and make sure equipment can reach the spot.
2. Plan delivery and access
Large fountains usually ship by freight anywhere in the US, and we also ship internationally. International orders pay the same fountain price, and the buyer covers shipping and any customs or duties. Our FAQ explains that delivery is usually curbside and that drivers generally don't handle indoor placement, assembly, installation or removing packaging. Plan how you'll move the pieces from the curb to the final spot, and check gate widths and paths in advance. Our FAQ also asks customers to report any shipping damage within 24 hours.
3. Prepare a solid, level base
The base is the most important part of the install. Concrete fountains are heavy. Our installation guide notes that our large tiered bird fountain weighs about 1,300 lbs. For that fountain, it recommends:
- A base that supports at least 1,500 lbs.
- A reinforced concrete pad or compacted gravel at least 6 inches deep.
- Avoiding soft soil or grass without a proper base.
Smaller fountains weigh less, but they still need a firm, level surface. For sphere fountains with hidden basins, the basin is set into the ground and must be level.
4. Plan the power
Our installation guide recommends a GFCI-protected outdoor outlet for the pump. If there's no suitable outlet nearby, consider hiring a licensed electrician. Plan how the cord will run, and keep connections out of the water and away from foot traffic.
5. Move heavy pieces safely
For heavy concrete fountains, our installation guide recommends a forklift or crane rated for 1,500+ lbs and 2–3 people. It is clear: never attempt to lift tiers by hand. Protect finishes with padding or blankets as you move pieces.
6. Assemble and level
For a tiered fountain, the general order is:
- Set the basin on the prepared base.
- Level the basin. Use a level in several directions, with shims if needed. Our installation guide recommends this step.
- Place the pump in the basin and run the tubing up through the pedestal and tiers.
- Stack each tier, checking level as you go.
For sphere fountains, set and level the basin or reservoir, place the pump, connect the tubing through the sphere and position the sphere.
Even small leveling errors show up as water running off one side. Take your time here.
7. Fill and test
- Fill the basin with water. Our installation guide recommends 4–6 inches of water above the pump.
- Plug the pump into the GFCI-protected outlet.
- Watch the flow. Adjust the pump's flow control if it has one, and fine-tune the leveling if water runs unevenly.
- Inspect for cracks or chips. Our installation guide includes this as a final check.
Common installation mistakes
- Skipping the base. Setting a heavy fountain directly on lawn or loose soil can lead to settling and tilting over time.
- Not checking level at every stage. It is much easier to fix level at the basin than after all the tiers are stacked.
- Running the pump dry. Always fill before plugging in.
- Hiding the pump where you can't reach it. You will need to clean the intake regularly.
- Forgetting the cord route. Plan where the cord will run before the fountain is in place.
8. Ongoing care
Once your fountain is running, our FAQ recommends:
- Topping off water weekly.
- Cleaning the pump filter monthly.
- Draining the fountain and storing the pump indoors in freezing temperatures.
- Resealing once a year with the Fountain & Flora sealer. Your fountain arrives sealed and protected, and we provide a complimentary Fountain & Flora sealer.
See also how to prevent algae and oxidation in your outdoor fountain.
DIY or professional?
Small and medium fountains are often a manageable DIY project for handy homeowners. Large concrete fountains need lifting equipment, a prepared base and careful leveling, so many people choose professional help. Factors to weigh include the fountain's weight, access to the site, whether you need new electrical work and your own comfort with heavy lifting.
We sell and deliver across the US and internationally, and we install within 100 miles of Anaheim. Outside that area, a local landscaper or contractor can handle the install.
Before you order
- Measure the space and mark the footprint.
- Confirm power is available or plan for an electrician.
- Plan the base.
- Check delivery access.
- Remember lead times. Most of our fountains are made to order, with production usually taking 2 to 8 weeks.
Browse our Classic Fountains and Sphere Fountains collections, or contact us at info@fountain-flora.com or (714) 210-1414.
