Off the Grid Solar Water Fountain
Embarking on the journey of creating a solar water fountain is not only a fulfilling DIY project but also an excellent way to contribute to the local ecosystem. This guide will walk you through the process of building a 5-gallon solar water fountain that serves as a refreshing oasis for bees and other wildlife in your garden.
Essential Materials
Before diving into the construction process, gather the following materials:
Plastic Planter Bottom: This will form the top of your fountain where water flows. Look for one at Lowe's or similar home improvement stores. Ensure it fits snugly on your 5-gallon bucket to prevent shifting.
5-Gallon Bucket: This serves as the water reservoir. You can easily find one at Lowe's or any large retail store. Opt for a bucket with a lid to keep debris out.
Hot Poker or Drill: You'll use this to create holes for water drainage and the pump hose. If using a hot poker, ensure it's thoroughly heated for clean cuts.
Solar Fountain Water Pump: This is the heart of your fountain, circulating water to create the desired effect. Various models are available on Amazon, with cost-effective options around $15. They are a pump with no adjustable settings for flow rate and water height. Set it and forget it.
Clip or Zip Ties: These will secure the hose in place, preventing it from falling into the bucket. Use a waterproof clip or zip ties for durability.
Assorted Rocks: These provide landing spots for bees and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your fountain. Select rocks of varying sizes to create different levels.
Step-by-Step Construction
Preparing the Planter Bottom
Begin by using your hot poker or drill to create 15-20 small drainage holes in the planter bottom. These holes allow excess water to flow back into the bucket, preventing overflow. Next, make a larger central hole for the pump hose, ensuring a snug fit.
Assembling the Fountain
Place the prepared planter bottom securely on top of the 5-gallon bucket, ensuring it's level. Thread the pump hose through the central hole and connect it to the solar fountain pump.
Securing the Hose
Use your clip or zip ties to fasten the hose to the planter bottom. This step is crucial as it prevents the hose from slipping back into the bucket and ensures consistent water flow.
Adding Aesthetic and Functional Elements
Arrange your collected rocks around the fountain. Position them so they're partially submerged, creating easy landing spots for bees while adding visual interest to your creation.
Setting Up the Pump
Place the solar fountain pump inside the bucket. No need to adjust the pump's settings to achieve your desired water flow and height - it is already set.
Place the Solar Cell
Place the solar cell on a flat surface to maximize sun exposure. We use a concrete block and secure the solar cell to the top. See Picture.
Case Studies: Real-World Applications
Urban Garden Oasis
In our bustling city, a gardener friend with limited space implemented this 5-gallon solar fountain in their small urban plot. The result was transformative—the fountain became the garden's centerpiece, attracting bees and a diverse array of pollinators and birds. This small addition significantly increased the biodiversity of the urban space, creating a thriving micro-ecosystem.
Enhancing Backyard Beekeeping
We are backyard beekeepers and integrated the solar fountain into our apiary setup with remarkable results. The constant source of fresh water improved the bees' health and productivity. We observed increased activity in the hives, likely due to improved hydration.
Maintenance and Tips for Long-Term Success
Algae Control: Regular cleaning is key to preventing algae buildup. Consider adding a small amount of aquarium-safe algaecide to the water or introducing aquatic plants to manage algae growth naturally.
Seasonal Considerations: In colder climates, bring your fountain indoors during winter months to prevent freezing and potential damage to the pump.
Regular Maintenance: Expect to clean the bucket every two weeks. Use mild soap and water, and don't forget to scrub the planter bottom to remove any buildup.
Following this guide will create more than just a water feature—you'll establish a vital resource for local wildlife and a captivating focal point for your outdoor space. Enjoy the soothing sounds of your fountain and the delightful buzz of bees visiting your garden!
Betsy and Pete
Las Vegas, Nevada
About Us: The Authors
We're Betsy and Pete, passionate Las Vegas beekeepers trained by a master in the field. With hundreds of successful bee and bee swarm removals under our belts, we're not just experts; we're enthusiasts committed to the well-being of these incredible pollinators.
We manage dozens of beehives, both natural and honey-bearing at our Joshua Tree Preserve.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Education is an ongoing journey, especially in a dynamic field such as beekeeping. That's why we continually update our knowledge base, collaborate with other experts, and stay up to date with the latest advancements in bee control methods and beekeeping practices.
We also provide top-tier beekeeping supplies, offering everything a beekeeper needs, from beginners to experts.
Comments