Light and water are best friends. Think sunrise over the ocean, sunset over a lake, moonlight on a river…. The right light can turn an ordinary body of water into something truly magical.
If you have a fountain or water feature in your garden, you’ll be amazed at how the addition of even just one light can completely transform it after dark. Submersible lights (ones that can go underwater) are the most popular choices for fountains, as they shine up through the water flow and onto the fountain itself, creating a soft, shimmery and almost hypnotic effect.
Some fountain lights have coloured filters, which can be changed according to the effect you want to create. Others have multi-coloured lenses, giving you a spectacular rainbow effect. You could also try a lily pad light which floats on the surface of the water.
If your fountain is wall mounted, you might want to try an easel-style light. These usually clip on the side of the fountain, highlighting the water flow from the top, rather than from underneath.
Choosing The Right Light
Whichever kind of light you choose for your fountain, it’s important to make sure it’s the right size in relation to the overall size of the basin. Most fountain lights are between five and 10 watts, although you will sometimes find up to 50 watt lights in large ponds.
Obviously, lights use electricity, and electricity and water don’t get along! This is why it’s important to ensure that any light you buy runs on 12 volts, making it safe to use in or near water. In the unlikely event of an accident, the voltage is low enough not to seriously injure people or fish.
Most submersible lights are available as LED or halogen, and either will work nicely in your fountain. Halogen lights are usually less expensive than LED versions, but they don’t last as long and typically use more electricity. They also run hotter than LED lights.
For a great choice of submersible lighting for your water feature, pond or fountain, visit Pool Spa and Filtration’s website or call us on 011 793 1381 and chat to one of our friendly team.