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Investing in a solar water feature makes an eco-friendly way to spruce up your garden before spring. A pretty fountain bubbling in a corner next to your outdoor dining set will help create a relaxing spot to enjoy your morning coffee while serving as a charming focal point at the same time. The soothing sound of trickling water makes a lovely added perk.
Adding a water feature to your garden also spells good news for local wildlife. A water source can help attract birds, providing the perfect pit stop for them to drink and bathe on a hot day.
Solar water features don’t use electricity, as they run solely off the sun’s energy, making them more eco-friendly than mains-powered options. They also won’t bump up your utility bills at the end of the month – something that’s always appreciated.
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So, how do solar water features work?
Solar water features draw power from sunlight via solar panels fixed on the fountain itself or attached via cable. Separated solar panels allow you to put the fountain anywhere you like as long as they’re placed in direct sunlight. Designs with panels attached must be kept in a well-lit spot to keep them charged effectively.
Do solar water features work at night?
Really, it depends on the fountain’s design. Some come with rechargeable panels, which helps water flow whether the sun is shining or not. Those without rechargeable panels will only be able to run while it’s light.
Why might a solar water feature not work?
There are two main reasons. Your fountain might not be getting enough sunlight and, in this case, should be moved to a sunnier spot. The pump might also need a clean due to a build-up of sediment in the water.
Choosing the best solar water feature for you
No matter your garden scheme, there are plenty of lovely solar water features to choose from. For big spaces, an extravagant multi-tiered sculpture will bring a regal touch to your patio area. For a smaller garden, there are lots of petite options that can be nestled among the plants on your rockery. Or, go for an elegant wall-mounted feature to utilise your available space most effectively and leave more room for your bistro set.
Stylish sphere-shaped designs are a great option for modern interior fans, while a traditional bird bath will help create a quiet spot for local wildlife to enjoy. A pretty sculpture, like this wholesome display of two children collecting water, will give your garden some character.
We’ve found a good mix of contemporary and classic solar water features we’ve found so you can create a tranquil outside area at home ready for spring 2023.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: CURVED DESIGN
Streetwize Solar Marble Water Feature
£165 AT ARGOS
Credit: Argos
This is a sleek design for a water fountain which will add curves and style to your garden. There’s also a little light at the base to help illuminate the gentle trickle.
Size: H70cm x W26cm x D48cmRechargeable solar panel? Yes.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: FAIRY SCULPTURE
Fairy leaf water feature
£120 AT WAITROSE GARDEN
Create a fairytale woodland in your garden with this ethereal water feature. For an extra touch of magic, surround it with these enchanting light-up mushrooms.Size: H43 x W34cmRechargeable solar panel? No.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: TERRACOTTA
Terracotta Garden Water Feature
£100 AT ARGOS
Create a Mediterranean-inspired display with this cascading water feature, which will look very smart nestled amongst your larger terracotta plant pots.
Size: H53cm x W38cm x D38cmRechargeable solar panel? Yes.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: BEST STATEMENT PIECE
Promadino Wood Solar Fountain
£879 AT WAYFAIR
A fabulous focal point for your garden, this fountain is sure to impress any party guests. Three benches frame the inner fountain, providing a shaded spot for you to sit and catch up with friends or enjoy a morning cuppa. Made from thick weatherproof pine, it should withstand the elements throughout the year.Size: H192 x W135 x D135cmRechargeable solar panel? No.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: MULTI-TIERED FEATURE
Queensbury Fountain Water Feature
£200 AT CROCUS
This multi-tiered stone-effect fountain is a statement piece. It’ll also provide a nice spot for the birds to enjoy, so you can do your bit to support local wildlife.
Size: H48 x W48cmRechargeable solar panel? No.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: SLATE-EFFECT
Streetwize Cascading Slate-Effect Water Feature
£180 AT ARGOS
Credit: Argos
This cascading slate-effect water feature has a solar on-demand back-up battery power source so you can still run it on overcast days. This is another design with a LED light that comes on at night.
Size: H72 x W38 x D38cmRechargeable solar panel? Yes.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: CONTEMPORARY DESIGN
Tranquility Sphere Water Feature
£22 AT CROCUS
One of the smaller water fountains featured, this spherical feature is ideal for bijou balconies and terraces. The reflective design will help to bounce light into dark corners, giving the illusion of a bigger space.
A larger option is available here.
Size: H40 x W40cmRechargeable solar panel? No.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: BLUE GLAZED DESIGN
Solar Blue Pot Water Feature
£130 AT COOPERSOFSTORTFORD.CO.UK
This water feature’s rich blue glaze will wonderfully complement any lush green foliage in your space. The four built-in lights will also provide a soft glow well into the night.
Size: H40 x W40cmRechargeable solar panel? No.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: BUDDHA FEATURE
Living And Home Meditating Buddha Water Fountain
Now 10% Off£95 AT DIY
This calming bronze Buddha feature will make a lovely standalone feature in your garden. The light-up orb at its centre will create a lovely glow and illuminate the flowing water.Size: H48cm x W30cm x D30cmRechargeable solar panel? No.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: FOR SMALL SPACES
Smart Solar Ceramic Fish Water Fountain
£55 AT ONBUY.COM
The small size of this fish fountain makes it a good choice for smaller balconies or patios. Place on a wall to provide a peaceful spot for winged friends to take a dip or stop by for a drink.
Size: H16 x W37 x D32cmRechargeable solar panel? No.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: PLANTER
Streetwize Solar Cascading Water Feature
£115 AT ARGOS
Credit: Argos
The natural look of this solar water feature means it can blend in seamlessly into a border. It also has two small planter spaces to add foliage and colour to the fountain.
Size: H47 x W43 x D43cmRechargeable solar panel? Yes.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: BAMBOO
Drsensei Table top water fountain
£119 AT ETSY
Credit: Etsy
Handmade from bamboo and coconut shell, this beautifully crafted Japanese water fountain is perfect for an oriental garden. It’s right at the top of our wish list.
Size: H20cm x W10.50cm x L25cmRechargeable solar panel? Yes.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: ELEPHANT SCULPTURE
Solar Water Feature Elephant
£180 AT COOPERSOFSTORTFORD.CO.UK
We love this joyful elephant who’s happily blowing water through its trunk into the multi-tiered fountain. At night, three lights illuminate the flowing water, making for a pretty focal point as the evening draws in.
Size: H50 x W40 x D24.5cmRechargeable solar panel? No.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: CUTE DESIGN
Puppy Dog Solar Powered Water Feature
Now 15% Off£147 AT ROBERT DYAS
Dog lovers will adore this one. With its sweet scene of a puppy curiously watching a water pump, it will certainly add a whimsical feel to your garden.Size: H53 x W33 x D45cmRechargeable solar panel? No.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: RUSTIC DESIGN
Solar Log Water Feature
Now 19% Off£130 AT COOPERSOFSTORTFORD.CO.UK
This charming water feature, featuring two tiny robins, will look lovely in a quiet patio corner or tucked between your plant pots.
Size: H56.5 xW41 x D28cmRechargeable solar panel? No.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: BEST VALUE
Solar Cherub Water Feature
£60 AT COOPERSOFSTORTFORD.CO.UK
Inspired by the lavish Palace of Versailles in France, this feature depicts two mischievous cherubs gently pouring water into three bowls. At under £40, it’s a great budget-conscious pick.
Size: H38 x W20 xD15cmRechargeable solar panel? No.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: STONE-EFFECT FEATURE
Rock Water Feature
Now 23% Off£100 AT COOPERSOFSTORTFORD.CO.UK
If you have a rockery or pond, this will blend right in. The golden LED lights in the upper and lower bowls will provide a soothing warm glow as the sun goes down.Size: H49.5 x W30 x D24cmRechargeable solar panel? No.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: WELL SCULPTURE
Solar Boy and Girl Water Feature
£130 AT COOPERSOFSTORTFORD.CO.UK
A more ornamental, sculptural design, this bronze effect fountain is so sweet. It depicts a whimsical scene featuring two children pumping water out of a well and into a bucket.
Size: H66 x W44 x D34cmRechargeable solar panel? No.
SOLAR WATER FEATURES: MULTI-TIERED DESIGN