How to Install a Disappearing Fountain (It’s Easier Than You Think!)

 

Disappearing fountains offer relaxing sounds, a beautiful focal point, and a unique feature for almost any landscape. While they may look complicated to create, the basic setup is actually easier than you might think!

They’re called “disappearing” fountains because the water flows over the fountain and disappears into decorative rock below. Hidden underneath is a basin that collects the water so a pump can continuously recirculate it.

 

 

Installing one does require some digging and heavy lifting, so grab an extra set of hands when moving large pottery, basins, or landscape rocks. Once the groundwork is finished, you can have a beautiful water feature that looks like it was made for your landscape.

 
 

How to Install a Disappearing Fountain

 

What You’ll Need

 

• A piece of pottery – choose a container that fits the style and scale of your landscape.

• A fountain basin & grate – choose a size capable of supporting your fountain and holding an adequate amount of water.

• A fountain pump – the appropriate pump size and flow rate will depend on the height and design of your fountain.

• A fountain container kit – includes the necessary tubing and components for converting your pottery into a fountain.

• Decorative stone or landscape glass – used to disguise the basin and create the finished look around your fountain.

 
 

Prepare the Area

 

1. Measure your basin. Your opening should be slightly larger than the basin itself so it can be positioned properly and leveled.

2. Dig the hole. Dig deep enough for the basin to sit at the appropriate finished grade. If you’re working near mature trees, be especially careful not to damage major roots.

3. Prepare and level the base. Tamp and level the soil beneath the basin. A solid, level foundation is important because the basin will need to support the weight of the fountain, decorative stone, and water.

 
 

Install the Fountain

 

Place the basin into the prepared hole, check that it is level in all directions, and carefully backfill around it to hold it securely in place.

 

 

Next, prepare your pottery for the fountain container kit. Depending on the container and kit you’re using, this may involve creating an opening for the tubing and properly sealing the connection so water flows where it should.

Always follow the fountain kit and pump manufacturer’s installation instructions. Pottery can crack or break when drilled improperly, so use the appropriate tools and technique for the material you’re working with.

Place the pump inside the basin and connect the tubing according to the manufacturer’s directions. Position your fountain securely on the basin grate before adding decorative materials.

 
 

Test & Adjust Your Fountain

 

Before adding all of your finishing touches, test the fountain and make any necessary adjustments.

• Fill the basin with water according to the pump manufacturer’s instructions, making sure the pump has the required water level before operating it.

• Connect the pump to a properly installed outdoor electrical receptacle. Because electricity and water are involved, the fountain should be powered from a GFCI-protected outdoor receptacle and installed according to the pump manufacturer’s instructions and applicable electrical requirements.

• Turn on the pump and check the water flow. Adjust the flow until the water moves over your pottery in the way you want.

• Watch for excessive splashing. If too much water is landing outside the basin, adjust the pump flow or fountain placement so you aren’t constantly losing water.

 
 

Add the Finishing Touches

 

Once everything is working properly, it’s time for the fun part—making your fountain look like it has always belonged in your landscape!

• Cover the basin and grate with river rock, decorative stone, or landscape glass.

• Add larger landscape rocks around the fountain for a more natural look.

• Plant flowers, ornamental grasses, or other landscape plants around the fountain to soften the edges and tie everything together.

• Add outdoor landscape lighting to highlight the fountain and surrounding plants after dark. Use fixtures specifically rated for their intended outdoor or underwater location and follow all manufacturer instructions.

 
 

Don’t Forget a Little Maintenance

 

Because the same water is continuously recirculated, you’ll need to check the basin periodically and add water as it evaporates—especially during our hot East Texas summers.

Keep debris away from the pump, clean the system as needed, and never allow the pump to run without the required amount of water.

 

A disappearing fountain is a beautiful way to add the relaxing sound of water to your landscape without installing a traditional pond. Stop by The Home & Garden Center and let us help you find the pottery, fountain supplies, decorative stone, and other materials you need to create one of your own!