A solar pond pump is a fountain pump that gets its power from solar energy by utilizing solar cells attached to the unit. You can select between two options: submersible and external. In the following paragraphs, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using a solar powered pump for your fountain.
A water feature like a lily pad is most relaxing when the water runs and makes a trickling sound. It is always the centerpiece of landscaping. However, because backyard pools are man-made bodies of water that don’t get their supply from nature, cleaning them regularly for maintenance is a must. This stagnation leads to the growth of not only moss and algae, but also bacteria, which makes the water green and dirty. The effects of this are anti-life as it depletes oxygen suffocating pond fauna i.e. frogs and fish. A pond pump prevents water from stagnating; aeration and circulation hinder the growth of these aquatic parasites.
However, the issue we are discussing here is the cost of operation. An electric fountain pump is expensive to maintain. For this reason, a considerable number of fountain owners choose solar-powered pumps.
Solar pumps depend on the abundant sun for their energy. Just like the standard pond pumps, you also have the option of the submersible type or the external type. The submerged pump operates inside the pond under water. The external pump, on the other hand, works out of the water, so it creates a constant buzzing unlike the previous one, where only the sound of dripping is heard.
The external pond pump is indicated for medium to large sized ponds, meaning a capacity of 1000 gallons or more. While the submersible pump is indicated for small ponds or pools with a capacity of less than 1000 gallons. Small pumps are usually labeled in gallons per hour or GPH, while large pumps are marked in horsepower or HP.
The use of solar energy is respectful with the environment. Although the initial cost of installing solar panels is high, it is cheaper in the long run with the money you save on electricity bills. Also, solar pumps are safer because without electricity the chances of electrocution are nil.
The disadvantage of solar energy is that it is not suitable in shady countries. The sun must always shine to store enough energy to power the fountain. Although there are backup batteries where the energy is stored, if the sun does not shine for a week, the energy runs out.