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Water Fountains: Functions, Types And Benefits

by Wyatt Fisk

Water fountains always have in them a unique element that simply makes them stand out among other water features. Fountains are often known for their ability to induce tranquility in the place where they are installed. They can function both as indoor and outdoor decorations, or they could also serve as havens for birds in the form of birdbaths. Regardless of their specific purposes and structures, one thing remains a fact; they will be used and improved for the years to come.

From as far back as 3000 BC fountains have frequently appeared throughout history. During the period of ancient Egyptians, the use of fountains were recorded in their tomb paintings, while ancient Persians used these water features as symbolic representations of paradise. Meanwhile, ancient Romans and Greeks utilized wall fountain and floor fountain pieces as their official public baths and drinking stations, while in China where large piazzas were made, sculptured fountains were used as centerpieces. Generally, fountains play a significant role in establishing ancient civilizations as they were considered as essential sources of water.

Water fountains work through the power of gravity and the activity of a fountain is performed by three important parts, the reservoir, pump and fountain head. All fountains have a reservoir from which they draw their water and to which the water flows back, creating an enclosed circuit. The pump is the one responsible for moving the water through its spinning impeller, which at accelerated speed of spinning causes a centrifugal force that forces the water out of the pump. The water forced from the pump eventually goes out into the fountain head where it is sprinkled through a nozzle towards the outside structure of this water feature and is then drained back into the reservoir.

Fountains come in differing forms and sizes; some of which could be used indoor or outdoors, while some are utilized for residential or commercial areas. The smallest of them all are designed for tabletops. Floor fountain is a stand-alone water feature that is often utilized as a statement piece either for wide indoor or outdoor spaces. Wall fountains, as their name connotes, are wall-mounted pieces. On the other hand, garden fountains are usually large water features used as focal designs of wide outdoor spaces like piazzas and courtyards that may come in the forms of sculpted topiary or series of connected pools.

Placing a fountain actually provides many benefits especially in terms of health and well being. A simple indoor wall fountain could actually become a decorative feature and a source of pleasure at the same time. The smooth and soothing flow of water from the fountain could easily reduce stress and provide comfort and relaxation, making such water feature a great addition for homes in urban spaces. Similarly, these water features have the ability to humidify and add moisture to rooms, which sanitizes the air you breath and in some instances also function as sources of drinking water for pets.

All in all, water fountains are renowned water features that are consistently innovated and improved through the years. Since the ancient times until today they prevail as one of the most extraordinary man-made water features. Likewise, their various purposes make these pieces one of the most multifunctional articles of accents. It is not at all surprising that these water features are often used both in commercial and residential spaces.

Water fountains have long been used throughout history. In fact, these water features can be considered as the most popular multifunctional decorative fixtures to date. Fountains come in differing styles and finishes, the most common of which are the floor fountain and indoor wall fountain designs. Actually, the decorative value as well as the multifunctional use of these features has been their selling points since yesteryears.

Published July 29th, 2010

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