TYPES OF FOUNTAIN SYSTEMS
CLOSED SYSTEM VS TANK SYSTEM Fountains that recycle the basin water and the water in the pipes/tubing/pump have a "closed system". The water must be replenished directly into the basin. Fountains that insert a water tank in the flow between the fountainhead and the pump have a "tank system". The tank serves as a reservoir, making refilling of the fountain (and tank) less frequent. An automatic siphon may also be added to tank so that manual refilling is unnecessary.

Generally, for our smaller fountains (ie, Ground Fountain, Traditional Fountain) the closed system is used. As long as it is possible to refill it daily, the Trumpet Fountain can use the closed system. The tank system is recommended for all the multi-tiered fountains.

CLOSED SYSTEM DIAGRAM

The closed circulation system circulates the water in the basin, the tubing and pump. When the water level in the basin evaporates and drops to 1", the basin must be refilled.

TANK SYSTEM DIAGRAM

The tank system increases the amount of water available to the fountain, and decreases the frequency of refilling. Use of an automatic siphon in the tank eliminates the need for manual filling.

The tank (40, 60, or 80 gal is typical size) and vault are located in-ground about 10' from the foundation of the fountain and is refilled manually using a garden hose. If you need to locate the tank farther than 10', we will size your pump to fit your application.

For an auto-fill system, the tank and vault are located as above and an automatic feeder valve is fitted to the tank. This system requires a water line, usually run in black pipe in tandem with the electrical conduit line. An existing outdoor water faucet can serve as the water source. Fitting the water faucet with a diverter allows the faucet to serve the fountain and to also to be able to use it as a regular faucet.

Given the size and shipping costs, we recommend that the tank and vault system and automatic valve be purchased locally. In addition to the instruction manual information, we can advise you by phone or e-mail in the planning and implementation of your tank system.

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