Water Features - Table-Top Fountain
About Table-Top Fountains
Introduction
The sounds of flowing water have always been acknowledged in both ancient and modern civilizations as a means to create a completely serene environment. These sounds block out background noise, help clear the mind, and provide a mood of relaxation in the room. In recent times, more and more fountains have been brought to the home to serve this very purpose.
Fountains come in a huge variety of colors, materials, sizes and styles to suit almost any taste and budget. What your choice will mostly depend on is the amount of space you have available in your home. For those of you who are squeezed for space, but are very enthusiastic about fountains and their psychological and aesthetic benefits, the best solution is the table-top fountain.
About Table-Top Fountains
Table-top fountains are compact and convenient water fountains that can be placed on any desktop, coffee table, bedside table, or any other flat surface. They can be added to serve as a room’s focal point, to fill a corner, on a shelf, in the middle of a furniture grouping, or as a centerpiece for a terrace table. If you are new to the home decorating world and just experimenting, or you are an experienced artist, it is guaranteed that adding a water fountain will make a fabulous, eye-catching accessory. Bear in mind, table-top fountains are not restricted to being home accessories only. They are also vastly popular in the office where they can be placed in the waiting area, on the receptionist’s desk, or on an office desk. What’s important is that table-top fountains are not permanent features; rather, they can very easily be moved from one place to another.
A table-top fountain is a great gift idea. If there is a house-warming party, birthday party, or the opening of a company or office, a table-top fountain is a unique, beneficial and inexpensive present to give.
Styles and Materials Used
Table-top fountains are usually made from acrylic, ceramic, copper, resin, slate or stone. Each material is used according to a certain table-top fountain style and design. For a traditional style, there are tabletop fountains that use flower and children sculptures, or rock configurations.
For a more original choice, there are the theme table-top fountains, like Asian and Egyptian, or perhaps pieces with fairies, gargoyles and dragons. The average table-top fountain ranges from abut one foot to three feet in height.
Equipment and Maintenance
All table-top fountains are energy efficient and do not need any plumbing. The only things needed are an electricity outlet and water in order to enjoy the trickling sounds the fountain’s waterfall will make. You may find that some tabletop fountains run on batteries and therefore will not require electricity.
It’s best to use distilled water and not tap water in your table-top fountain. Distilled water does not contain any minerals in it and won’t leave spots and stains. After you have filled your fountain, add a splash of distilled water a day to replace any water which may have evaporated.
Beware of algae and slime build-up. If you see your fountain pump has slowed down, then it’s probably time to clean it. If the pump becomes too clogged, it may overheat and then you have to end up buying a new one. It is advised to clean your table-top fountain every two to three months. A toothbrush, ScotchBrite pad and white vinegar are some useful cleaning tools.
