06/06/08

Solar water features have never been so popular, as people have seen for themselves the benefits of using solar power to power electric water pumps at friend's gardens and at garden centres.

Using photovalvic solar cell technology, sun is converted into electricity which powers a small pump that can create fountains, cascades etc. Only five years ago the range of water features was limited and the solar panels were at least twice the size of solar panels today, and were less efficent in turning sun into electric power.

The 'iconic' solar water feature which many of you will have seen is the Solar Terracotta Cascade, which is a few small dishes that are placed on a wire rack that surrounds a bowl. The water is pumped up to the top dish and lets gravity do the rest as the water flows over in the next dish below which continues until reaching the base bowl, from where water is taken and pumped up to the top dish. A simple but very effective process, which creates the relaxing sound of continuous running water.

One of the cons of opting for a solar water feature as opposed to one connected to the mains is that if it becomes overcast the power will greatly reduce and often stop, leaving the feature dormant until the next break in the clouds, and at night time of course the feature will not work.

However, this has been overcome on many water features now with the option of buying a cable that allows the feature to be powered by the mains if prefered. Also, one of the main manufacturers has now brought out water features with a patented 'Solar on Demand' technology which allows for the feature to be controlled by remote control and can use solar power or battery power depending on the weather conditions.

The designers have been busy over the last few years in an attempt to create solar water features that suit all types of garden from the traditional to the contemporary. It is now possible to buy birdbaths, mock urns, buddhas, etc all using solar panels to power the water flowing in, down or around the feature.

Running fresh water will attract birds to your garden who will use it a small watering hole to refresh themselves and is also a great focal point for garden borders, patios etc.

On a less positive note, in the last couple of years solar water features were available in attractive metals, such as stainless steel and copper that were perfect for modern homes and people wanting a minimalist or contemporary designed garden. Unfortunately due to rising commodity prices the main manufacturer has stopped using metal to create water features as it was proving to be economically unviable. So it seems gardeners will have to settle for resin based, terracotta or stone features. Although all of these materials are excellent in blending in with garden surroundings.

Solar Water Feature - An Old Classic,
The Terracotta Cascade