PV Gap

Brandon Said:

Recommendations for solar powered water fountain?

We Answered:

There are lots of places that sell solar powered pumps and fountains in kits. Like this site.

http://www.siliconsolar.com/solar-founta…

You could also find a pump (DC would be easiest) that you like and then design a system to supply the amount of power it needs.

I would go with a kit just to save the hassle and because they have been tested for the application already.

As far as raising frogs you could do it but it would be difficult to make sure the frogs stayed in the area. Unless you build a small barrier around your fountain and area where you want to control the slugs.

Bonnie Said:

I have a solar powered fountain. It sucks, how can I improve it?

We Answered:

It is possible you have not pointed the panel correctly. It is not enough to just set in in full sun. The panel needs to be pointed directly at the sun to get maximum power.

In the video I saw the fountain all by itself bubbling up maybe 2 inches. Then in the later part with the two people standing by it I saw it bubbling up maybe 6 inches.

I could not find any specifications on the links. Not the size of the panel or the watts it can make in full sun or anything. But your disappointment is a very good demonstration of how weak solar power is and why it hasn't taken off as a power source in widespread use.

Ida Said:

Can you tell me step by step like I am a two year old how to make a solar powered fountain?

We Answered:

I would just go buy one.
A "two year old" will have trouble making one from scratch.
It's already hard enough to find a pump with the correct flow and "head" for a particular fountain application, then calculating the size/type of solar panel for that motor further complicates things. There are no standardized formulas for solving this.

But if you insist, start with a DC pump (standard fountain pumps are AC, unfortunately). Then note the voltage. If you can find a solar panel of that voltage. Great, otherwise you'll need to wire several in series to approximately match the voltage. Next, the solar panel must supply *at least* the current (in amps) that the pump requires as per specs. You might find these components at Edmund Scientific, etc.

Olga Said:

my dog has bitten through the wire of my solar powered fountain how can I repair it ?

We Answered:

peel back the insulation on both ends, expose the four wires, twist the two sets of wires, get some electrical tape and insulate or get an insulating cap at the hardware store.