Frequently Asked Questions 

No, Fountain People is a manufacturer but can typically recommend a contractor for the installation scope of work.

Each project is custom and utilizes commercial quality components of stainless steel, bronze, or brass that often involves machining. Each equipment package includes a UL listed control panel built per project specifications. If lighting is part of the project, this can greatly affect equipment and installation costs due to waterproofing and specialized lighting controls.

1. The Installation/Submittal Drawing Package is 3-6 weeks from the time an order is received.
2. Shipment of Embed items is approximately 2-3 weeks once written approval of the submittal drawing package is received. This includes the items that go in the concrete pour.
3. Shipment for the Balance of Items is approximately 6-10 weeks once written approval of the submittal drawing package is received. This includes the equipment vault or pump assemblies, UL control panels, light fixtures, and custom fabrications.

As a general rule of thumb, the water effect height from your nozzles should never exceed the distance to the basin wall. Water can easily be blown from the nozzle effects beyond the basin in windy situations. In fountains that are subject to the wind or HVAC systems that move high volumes of air, wind control systems are highly recommended. These systems come with a wind speed sensor, also known as an anemometer, that is ideally located near the water feature to measure similar wind conditions. These sensors typically begin to measure wind speeds at a minimum of 1 MPH.  These sensors are paired with a wind control panel that can override the pump flow and reduce the nozzle effect heights or shut down the fountain for a set duration of time based on specified wind increments. Wind level control systems help you save on water due to loss, chemical usage from water balancing, and can help keep bystanders from getting wet due to over-spray.

Aerated Fountain Nozzles:

Advantages:

1. Visual Appeal: Aerated fountain nozzles, like a Foam Jet, create a visually stunning effect due to the incorporation of air into the water stream. The result is a frothy, bubbly water display that can be captivating and eye-catching.
2. Height and Shape Variation: These nozzles allow for greater flexibility in creating various water patterns, heights, and shapes. By adjusting the air and water mixture, as with a Bubbler Nozzle, the fountain's design can be customized to suit different preferences and occasions.
3. Wind Resistance: Aerated fountains are generally more resistant to wind interference. The incorporation of air bubbles adds stability to the water stream, reducing the impact of gusts and maintaining the desired shape and height of the fountain. A Cascade Nozzle makes a great example of maintaining the shape of the water effect in windy conditions.

Disadvantages:

1. Water Loss: The addition of air bubbles to the water stream increases evaporation, leading to a higher water consumption compared to solid stream fountains. This factor may result in increased maintenance and operational costs.
2. Water Quality: Aerated fountains are more prone to water contamination due to the increased exposure of water to the surrounding air. Airborne pollutants, such as dust and debris, can easily settle on the water surface, affecting its clarity and cleanliness. Regular water treatment and filtration are necessary to maintain water quality.
3. Noise Generation: The introduction of air into the water stream can create noise, especially when the fountain reaches higher heights. This factor should be taken into account when considering the fountain's placement, particularly in noise-sensitive environments.

Solid Stream Fountain Nozzles:

Advantages:

1. Water Conservation: Solid stream fountain nozzles, such as Precision Jets, consume less water compared to aerated nozzles. The absence of air bubbles reduces evaporation, resulting in lower water consumption and operational costs.
2. Clear Water Surface: Without the incorporation of air, solid stream fountains maintain a clear water surface, which can enhance the reflection of surrounding lights and objects, creating a more mirror-like effect. Mushroom Jets and Fan Jets can help to achieve this visually.
3. Minimal Noise: Solid stream fountains are generally quieter compared to aerated fountains, making them more suitable for environments where noise control is important. Nozzles like a Smooth Bore can help to achieve minimal noise in a fountain.

Disadvantages:

1. Limited Design Options: Solid stream fountains offer fewer design options in terms of height and shape variation compared to aerated fountains. Achieving intricate water patterns or shapes may be more challenging with solid stream nozzles.
2. Wind Sensitivity: Solid stream fountains are more susceptible to wind interference. Strong gusts can disrupt the water stream and alter the fountain's shape and height, potentially compromising the desired visual effect.
3. Reduced Visual Appeal: The absence of air bubbles can make solid stream fountains appear less visually dynamic and captivating compared to aerated fountains. The frothy and bubbly effect of aerated fountains is often considered more visually appealing.