There is a wide variety of nozzle types. The selection of the nozzle depends on the desired effect, the location of the water basin, and the technical constraints. However, regardless of the selected model, there are a few basic requirements to be taken into consideration:
Size and shape
The size and shape of the basin may be determined by the fountain effect. The water depth should be no less than 18” for easy installation of the equipment.
Filtration and sterilization
Pool filter maintains water quality. The filter size is based on the required turn-over (between ½ hour and 2 hours, depending on the location and characteristics of the fountain). A sterilization system is also necessary; chlorination and ionization are generally used to disinfect water.
Pumping system
In general, two independent pumping systems should be installed. The first one is for the filtration (its flow rate is based on the turn-over), and the second one is selected according to the flow rate and pressure requirements of the desired nozzle effect
Fountain effect
There is a wide variety of nozzle characteristics and effects (flow rate, height, spread, etc.). As a general rule of thumb, the minimum basin diameter should be twice the spray height. For example, if the basin diameter is 3 m, the nozzle height should not exceed 1.5 m.
Lighting
A good lighting system modifies the entire aspect of a fountain. It enhances greatly the aesthetic of the pond or basin, especially during the evening and nighttime hours.
Type of nozzles:
There are two types of nozzles; water level dependent and water level independent.
WIND CONTROLLER
A sensing head mounted up-wind from the fountain with the control mechanism in the control panel can reduce the height of the fountain jet in moderate winds by opening a by-pass valve or shut down the jets pump completely in heavy winds.
Water level controls
Electronic water level sensors monitoring water make up valves and low water shut down will replenish the water lost due to evaporation.