5 Best Solar Bird Bath fountains

Do you love nature and the beautiful things that mother nature provides us with? Having a bird bath put up somewhere in your backyard speaks volumes about your relationship with nature. Having a solar bird bath fountain crowns it all and shows how much you care for mother nature. Using solar energy as a source of power for your bird bath fountain conserves not only the environment but also minimizes cost.

Water is necessary for birds, and more elaborate arrangements like a bird bath fountain can effectively lure more birds to a birder’s backyard. As more birds enjoy the great source of refreshment from your bird bath, they add to the beauty.

In case you are thinking of having a bird bath fountain, consider getting a solar powered one. Bird bath fountains add flare to your backyard, make it attractive, and elevate your landscape. Powered by the sun rays only, solar bird births do not require any cords, and it does not produce any noises. The built-in solar panels have minimal risks and no tripping hazards. They are easy to maintain and can work without interruptions even on overcast days since they are energy efficient.

There are some factors to consider when getting a solar fountain. They include; the material used to make it, the size and power capacity of the solar panel, its design, and functionality in relation to your outdoor space.

Top 3 Best Solar Bird Bath Fountains

5 Best Solar Bird Bath Fountains (Tested and Ranked)

1. Wishing Well Solar Fountain

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 15 x 15 x 25 inches
Weight: 272 ounces

Wishing well solar fountain is one of the best solar fountain pumps in the market. This traditional outdoor décor is something you would want to have in your backyard or garden for its design and style. It is a fantastic focal piece made of polyresin, stone powder, and sand. The solar fountain is beautifully crafted to create two tiers of bowls for water to fall into and circulate up again, creating that scenic view that attracts the birds.

The all in one bird bath, fountain, and well produces some gurgling sound that is attractive and alluring to the birds. The masterpiece works equally well, even on overcast days. The package comes with a solar panel, pump, and an electrical adapter, for alternative use when there is no sun.

It is advisable to support the wishing well solar fountain with something substantial or some concrete to enable it to hold heavier weights and prevent it from collapsing and breakages. This also helps it endure the very windy days. The bird birth is also cost-effective and can fit into almost everyone’s budget.

Pros

It is durable since it is made of sand, stone powder and polyresin
It is easy to assemble
Has a good enough water holding capacity, around two gallons
It uses both solar and electricity to operate
It is energy efficient
It has a two-tier bowl that gives the birds enough space to enjoy the refreshments
It fits in any outdoor space
It has a sleek, elegant design that adds flair and detail to your garden or backyard with its scenic view.

Cons

The model has a small water pump
It is affected by harsh weather conditions
It requires frequent water refills in hotter seasons due to high evaporation rates
The fountain is lightweight, and the base is not stable enough. Since it attracts more massive animals like cats, it can easily give in to the weight, especially on windy days. This could lead to the risk of breakages and chipping.

2. Ankway Solar Bird Bath Fountain Pump

Ankway 1.4W Solar Fountain, Classic Version Solar Powered Fountain Pump for Bird Bath,Garden Backyard Pond Pool Outdoor,Free Standing Floating Solar Water Fountain with 7 Nozzle

ECO-FRIENDLY SOLAR FOUNTAIN PUMP — This Ankway solar bird bath fountain pump runs automatically, no battery or electricity needed.
CONVENIENT FUNCTION DESIGN — Simply cleaning, easily move to different locations, no plugs required, small, multiple fountain heads for different water patterns. Just floating it on the water, it will run automatically once the solar panel reach enough sunlight.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 6.8 x 2.2 x 6.5 inches
Weight: 7.7 ounces

Ankway solar bird bath pump is equipped with a new brush-less and pump and a high quality solar panel. The eco-friendly solar fountain pump runs automatically without requiring any power from a battery or electricity, thus saves on operational costs since there are no electricity bills to pay. It has a convenient design that is simple to clean up, easy to maintain, and easy to carry around. The solar power pump kit has eight kinds of spraying style, which allow you to select different water fountain patterns without struggles, adding more fun into your garden or backyard.

The fountain does not use any plugs; it freely floats on the water surface and automatically starts working once the solar panel reaches enough sunlight. This classic solar fountain pump is suitable for small ponds, oxygen flow through water, fish tanks, garden enhancement, and bird bath to attract the birds and bring the garden vitality.

This fountain pump works best when it is provided with adequate access to direct sunlight during day time. Therefore, it is advisable to peel off the plastic film protector on the surface of the panel to help it work more effectively. The solar fountain is an economical investment to make. Additionally, all the customers who buy the fountain pump could get free 12 months, friendly customer services for the fountain pump.

Pros

The fountain pump runs automatically without the need for battery or electricity.
It is easy to clean and maintain
It is easily portable without the risk of breakages
It has eight unique spraying styles
It is made up of superiorly capable solar panel and new brushless pump, that is durable
It is fast, stable and freely floats on water to serve its purpose

Cons

The fountain does not come with a garden bird bath as well as a bird birth stand
The solar water pump requires frequent cleaning
The solar fountain pump is adversely affected by low levels of water, which shortens its life span
The sunlight directly drives the pump; hence it is affected by factors such as shadows, weather, seasons, places, etc.

3. Solatec Solar Fountain

Solatec Solar Fountain, Black

Eco Friendly: It is an extremely competent solar panel. It is controlled with solar power completely. It does not need battery or electricity. It is an Eco Friendly solar pump and saves money.
Sprayer for Different Water Style: There are 4 different types of nozzle heads attached with the pump itself. It helps to change the height of water in different water patterns. The water can rise up to 30-50 cm approx.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 6.3 x 6.3 x 1.6 inches
Weight: 8.5 ounces

Solatec solar fountain pump is a free floating outdoor bird bath fountain kit. It is an extremely competent solar panel, entirely powered by sun rays, and does not require any batteries or electric power. For this, it is eco-friendly and helps to save what would have been used to replace batteries or pay electricity bills. The fountain pump has four different types of nozzle heads attached to the pump itself. The nozzles help change the heights of water up to between 30 and 50 cm and change the patterns and water spraying styles.

The eco-friendly solar pump is ideal for fish tanks, small ponds, pools, gardens, water circulation for oxygen, and bird baths to lure all birds, amusing decorating your yard. The pump is very easy to use since it does not require any plugs. All you need to do is make it float on the water, and when the solar panel gets sunlight, it will automatically run in a couple of seconds. Any shadow above a single panel hinders it from functioning; thus, the fountain only works when all the panels are exposed to full, direct sunlight. The brighter and sufficient sun rays it receives, the better it works.

The pump requires enough water in the fountain to keep it fully submerged, and regular cleaning to prevent dirt from blocking it.

The package comes with one solar fountain pump, four nozzle heads, one big suction cup with a long fishing line, a user guide, a one-year warranty, and free customer after sale services.

Pros

The fountain is easy to assemble and install
It is easy to utilize and clean up
It is durable since it is made of solid materials
The four nozzle heads allow for a change in water patterns making it irresistibly attractive
The solar fountain is eco-friendly, energy efficient, and cost-effective.
It is resistant to all weather conditions and frostiness even if you put it outside for its entire life span

Cons

The fountain is easily affected by shadows or anything that may obstruct the sun rays and prevent them from directly reaching all the panels
The pump needs to be always fully submerged into the water in the fountain, thus low levels of water affect its functionality
The pump can easily get blocked by dirt, hence requires frequent cleaning
It does not store charge for use when there is no sunlight

4. Viajero Latest Upgrade 2.5W Solar Fountain Pump

Sale

Viajero Latest Upgrade 2.5W Solar Fountain Pump for Bird Bath with 800mAh Battery Backup, Free Standing Portable Floating Solar Powered Water Fountain Pump for Garden Backyard Pond Pool Outdoor

【POWERFUL PANELS & BATTERY】：This solar fountain features a powerful 2.5W solar panel and long lasting 800mAh battery, working together they provide continuous power and ensure stability of the pump throughout the day when it’s sunny or cloudy out.
【INTELLIGENT CIRCUITRY】：Unlike other types of solar powered pump, ours has been designed so that the fountain will continue to work and spray water at a consistent flow even if 3-4 of the solar panels have been covered by debris.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 7.3 x 7.3 x 2.2 inches
Weight: 12 ounces

Viajero solar fountain pump comes with a powerful 2.5W solar panel and a long lasting 800mAh battery that stores backup power. They work together to continuously supply power and provide stable functionality of the pump all day long, regardless of the prevailing weather conditions. It has an intelligent circuit system that works effectively and ensures consistent water spray even if some of the solar panels are blocked from receiving direct sun rays.

Additionally, the solar fountain is made to float on water, and it is fitted with high-quality and long lasting PET laminated solar panels that are durable and free from breakages. This makes the fountain last longer, giving you value for your money. The pump is made to intelligently go off automatically if there is no water, after 15 seconds of inactivity, or if the pump gets blocked by dirt particles to prevent damages and functional breakdowns.

The pump is suitable for almost all outdoor spaces since it does not require cords. It is powered by sunlight and floats on the water surface for exposure to sun rays to start working. It is fitted with four different nozzle patterns that add spice to your fountain and habitually attract the birds.

First, spray with the nozzle before installing it to expel the air that accumulates in the pump when it is put into water. Always use clean water and regularly clean the pump. The solar water pump fountain comes with a 30 day no question asked refund policy and 1-year product replacement service.

Pros

The fountain is easy to assemble, install and use
The fountain can be used to convert any pool of water into a bird bath
It is fitted with PET laminations on the solar panels to prevent them from damages and interferences by foreign elements
The fountain comes with a backup battery to ensure smooth running all day
It has multiple applications, and it is easy to carry from one place to another
It intelligently goes off automatically if there is no water, after 15 seconds of inactivity
It senses when there is debris in the pump and goes off automatically to prevent damages.
It is not affected by debris covering any of the solar panels

Cons

5. OKMEE Solar Fountain Upgraded 4-in-1 Nozzle

OKMEE Solar Fountain Upgraded 4-in-1 Nozzle, 2.2W Solar Powered Fountain Pump with 4 Water Styles, Solar Bird Bath Fountain for Bird Bath, Pond, Pool, Fish Tank, Aquarium and Garden

4-in-1 Integrated Nozzle: OKMEE solar powered fountain pump for bird bath is the only one company designs with 4 in 1 nozzle. Rotate nozzle to change the different water styles. Never miss nozzles again and goodbye to frequently changing and complex installation. OKMEE solar fountain with the Patent NO. US D877,855 S
Different Water Style and Gentle Burbling Sound: 4 water styles, water up to 50-70cm jet height on sunny day. Rotate the nozzle to switch 3 different spraying modes and remove nozzle to get bubbler mode. Bubbler mode is the lowest height spray, then 1 to 3 mode from low to high

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 6.8 x 6.7 x 1.8 inches
Weight: 11.2 ounces

This water fountain has a 100% full solar panel with a power capacity of 2.2W, where the solar panel transforms stronger power to make water spray more stable and long lasting. It is designed with a 4 in 1 nozzle that rotates to switch to the various water spraying styles. The fountain sprays water up to 50 to 70cm jet height on a sunny day producing a gentle bubbling sound. The bubbler mode is the lowest height spray of the four rotating nozzles, then one to three modes from low to high.

OKMEE pump is equipped with high quality and new technology water shortage protection tool and a filtration box to block dirt, dust, and leave particles from getting into the pump. This serves to extend the service life of the pump. Additionally, the solar panel is fitted with PET laminations to make it durable in harsh environmental conditions.

The pump is easy to use since it is solar powered and requires to be floated in water to start working automatically after three seconds of exposure to sunlight. It is ideal for small ponds, pools, fish tanks, garden decoration, water circulation, and bird bath to attract birds that bring happiness and exciting garden life to your yard. The pump package comes with a solar fountain pump, two suction cups, two wires, and two filter sponges. It has a user manual and an instruction card for ease of use.

Pros

It has a higher power capacity to make water sprays more stable and long lasting
It has a four in one nozzle that is easy to install and easy to use
It has beautiful water styles that make your bird bath to be outstanding
The pump has a water shortage protection and dirt filtration box
The solar panel is laminated with PET (polyethylene terephthalate) for maximum protection in harsh environments

Cons

What is a solar powered bird bath, and how does it function?

A bird bath is an artificial puddle or a small shallow pond, made with a water-filled basin where birds come to get some refreshments. It is an attraction for various birds’ species to visit a garden mostly on hot days and in times of droughts. Bird baths can range from garden ornaments, small reflecting pools, or outdoor sculptures made from various materials. A bird birth can be a pre-made basin supported by pedestals and columns or made to from tree branches. They can also be carved out depressions made on rocks boulders.

Solar bird baths replace standing water bird baths that are powered by electric energy. Solar bird bath fountains are eco-friendly since they use natural energy from sunlight and are cost effective. Solar panels can be mounted in the basin or in a bird bath outside the water pool to get solar energy from the sun rays. Some solar fountain pumps are fitted with solar panels, and they are made to float on the water surface to accumulate solar powered energy.

The energy accumulated in the solar panel powers the fountain pump to ensure smooth flow and circulation of water in the bird bath. There are various types of bird baths and are affected differently by various environmental factors. Harsh weather conditions ruin some, and others work only when the entire solar panel is receiving direct sunlight. However, others are not affected by shadowing over some parts of the solar panel.

Before making any purchases, it is essential to look at various solar fountain pumps from different manufacturers and compare their features. Ensure that you put your preferences into account and get high quality products that will not leave you with regrets. Solar fountains are climate sensitive and should be put in the bright open ground with enough sunlight for maximum and effective functioning. Additionally, consider the material used to make the fountain, its design, and style.

Most solar fountains are made with several nozzles to give a variety of water patterns. For low sprays, the pumps can be used without any attachments. This is mainly ideal for a bird bath, but it is good to use attachments to enhance the spray for bigger pools of water. As the water gushes out of the fountain pump, it pushes and moves the fountain in the pool, especially with high jetting attachments that produce a lot of pressure. If you want your fountain to be stationary, you can use suction cups and attach the pump at the position you want it to remain. Keeping your fountain in one location minimizes chances of stray splashing on walkways.

Types of solar bird baths

Solar bird baths are made into various sizes and shapes, made from different materials, and apply different levels of technologies. They are crafted to take care of diverse needs, tastes, and preferences and take care of different budgetary needs. Here are the different varieties:

i. Freestanding solar pump

The solar pump is popular for sturdiness and durability. The pump is equipped with a high quality solar panel that gathers solar energy to run the fountain effectively. It is well suited for both small ponds or a bird bath fountain to enable water circulation and increase the amount of oxygen content flowing through the bird bath.

ii. Floating solar powered fountain pump

The floating solar fountain pump is solely powered by direct sunlight, and it does not have a battery to store extra power. It is known to work instantly, a few seconds after it is made to float on water to accumulate solar energy. The pump is easy to assemble and install. It is equally easy to clean for maintenance purposes.

The pump is versatile due to the adjustable lengths. It improves the flow of oxygen and enhances water circulation making it difficult for mosquitoes to lay eggs in your bird bath. It has several attachments to help fix the fountain in one place, increase the heights of water jets, or change the water splash patterns.

iii. Solar pump kit

Solar pump kit increases water circulation and flow of oxygen through your bird bath without the need for special attachments. This gives your backyard or garden a scenic view at no extra costs. The pump is equipped with a brushless motor to operate or more hours using lesser energy. The kit requires just enough direct sunlight to work effectively.

The pump can be used in multiple water features and throw water jets up to 45cm. The pump has a removable nozzle for easy cleaning and maintenance.

iv. Pedestal bird baths

Pedestal bird baths are the best in the market, and they come in large bowl capacities to hold more birds, and bigger sized birds enough space to enjoy refreshments. They are made into various colors that offer you a wide range of selections to fit it in with your exterior space.

It is advisable to have tiny stones or gravels under the bath basin to make the birds more comfortable by giving them something solid to step on as they enjoy drinking and splashing, and keep them coming for more.

Advantages of Solar Powered Bird Births

Solar bird baths are easy to maintain because the pumps are powered by solar energy compared to electric bird baths.
They are easy to assemble, and install. All a solar bird bath needs to placed out under the sun, fill it with water and the fountain starts working immediately after the solar panel receives some direct sunlight.
They are cost effective since there are no bills that need to be paid for solar energy.
The bird baths are easy to clean and add more water, especially during hotter seasons.
Most solar bird baths are made from durable materials that allow them to last longer, even under harsh weather conditions.
They add spice and bring more serenity to your backyard or garden, attracting birds, people, and even animals.
Solar bird baths are more of an outdoor decoration masterpiece that creates a scenic view in your backyard.

Pro tips to remember when using solar bird bath fountains

Clean the pump frequently to prevent it from getting clogged with dirt and debris.
Use clean water for the bird bath and replace the water to ensure that it is clean at all times.
Use a stiff bristle brush to clean your pump and some bleach solution to clean the bird bath.
Always refill water in the bird bath immediately the levels get low, to prevent the pump from getting damaged, and maintain the bird bath bubbler.
Get a bird bath that can hold more water to ensure that the pump is always submerged under water since water fountains enhance water reduction.
Keep your bird bath at an open place where it is easily visible to see and enjoy the beautiful scenery clearly.
Your bird bath should be adaptable to harsh environments since it will be placed outside most of the time.

Factors to consider when purchasing a solar powered bird bath.

It is always important to buy the best bird bath fountain that will gather more sun rays and effectively convert the solar energy into reliable power to run your fountain. A good solar powered bird bath should be strong enough to withstand extreme environmental factors and harsh weather conditions and last long enough.

There are various important factors to consider and evaluate before buying a solar powered bird bath. They include:

1. The size of the pump

The size of the pump is determined by the size of the fountain, and they should be directly proportional. As you choose a pump, it is important to consider the amount of water you want to pump and your ideal bird bath capacity. You need a bigger sized pump for higher water volumes and for low volumes a small pump will be adequate. The depth of the bath and the height of the jets you would are other factors to put into consideration as you choose a pump.

2. What time do you want to operate your fountain?

Solar pumps vary in the hours of effective operation. Some fountains work both day and night, and others operate only during the day. In case you intend to put up a bird bath and fountain that works around the clock, you need to buy one that works 24 hours non-stop. The ideal models are those with a rechargeable back up battery to store energy for you use when the sun goes down. If your idea is to have a fountain switched on only during the day, you can just buy anyone that appeals to you and is affordable for you.

3. The ideal location of the pump

Would you want your pump put in the open where it is visible to everyone or would you want it hidden? It is important to know that concealed solar panels require more wiring to connect it to the water fountain. It is also good to make sure that the solar panel is not obstructed from receiving direct sun rays. If you do not mind your pump being seen, you do not require long wiring because you can place it next to the fountain. With recent innovations and technological advancements, there are beautiful design units that are made to disguise into bird-like patterns. They camouflage appearing like an exterior adornment peak.

4. The materials used

Bird baths are made up of different types of materials. There are bird baths made of metals, and the best ones to go for are those made of brass or copper. They require high maintenance since they are susceptible to rust, but they are generally durable.

Some are also made of shells, glass and stone mosaics. They are appealing to the eye but very delicate and fragile. Those made using marble are durable.

4. Is the fountain single or double-tiered?

This is governed by your personal preferences, although double tiered fountains are spacious, and they are ideal for bigger outdoor spaces. The single-tiered fountains are generally small in size and ideal for limited outdoor spaces.

6. The size and power capacity of the solar panel

If your ideal fountain is intended to operate all day and night, you need to buy a bigger sized solar panel with a high power capacity to sustain the fountain effectively. Again, if the pump is big, it will pump more water, and this requires an equally large sized solar panel to match the high water circulations.

7. The head types

Solar powered fountains come with a variety of head types to choose from. They vary from spray nozzles, bubbly heads, and those that give multiple water patterns.

8. Aesthetics

This is the general appearance of the fountain, the beauty, its style, and how well it blends in with your garden or backyard. It is good to buy a fountain that naturally blends with your ideal space without making it look odd or wrongly placed due to the color choices. Fountains are meant to add color, spice up and decorate your garden, or to contrast it tactically. If your garden is flowery and too colorful, a serious or an elegantly toned fountain could complete the look.

FAQs

Why is my solar pump not working?

The most common reason why solar powered fountain pumps stop working is due to clogging with dirt and debris. All fountain pumps need to be regularly cleaned for proper maintenance. Ponds contain organic particles, bird debris, dust particles, and other small pieces of debris that can easily find their way into the pump. Fountain pumps are equipped with a simple filtration box, but dirt and debris accumulate after operating for some time, clogging the pump.

Most of the advanced fountain pumps are made in such a way that they detect clogging and automatically stop working to prevent the pump from getting damaged. It is, therefore, important to regularly disassemble the pump and clean it thoroughly. The process is not as complicated as it may look since there are just a few components housed inside the pump. Most pumps are made up of the outer pump cover, an impeller, and an axle inside the pump housing.

Once you have disassembled your pump, individually clean each component. To thoroughly clean inside the impeller shaft, you can use a threaded piece of cloth or a pump scrubbing brush to floss out all the dirt. Ensure that all the dirt and algae that had grown inside the impeller are all cleaned out.

Once the impeller is free of all dirt, smear some oil on the impeller and the shaft to increase its performance. Reassemble the pump and install it back in the water. Always ensure that you repeat the cleaning procedure as frequently as possible.

Is it possible to convert an electric fountain to a solar powered fountain?

Yes, it is possible to convert most of the electric fountains to solar powered fountains.

You can always replace your electric pump with a solar pump and solar panel. Since you will need both a pump and panel, it is advisable to get a solar powered kit, which includes both. You can either get a pump with a standard solar panel that only works in direct sunlight, or a pump with a Solar-On-Demand panel which comes with a built-in on/off switch and a backup battery pack that can store power. In case you are not sure which style of fountain you have, or you would like to change the fountain style as you switch to a solar powered bird bath, it is good to consult with dealers, to make an informed decision.

Bottom line

It is clear that water fountains and bird baths add serenity and an aura of tranquility to your outdoor space. Solar powered fountains are definitely an economical investment that adds spice and gives your space a scenic view without the worry of increasing electricity bills. It is essential to carry out detailed and thorough research regarding the best solar powered bird bath fountain before making any purchases. This ensures that you make a wise decision that you will not cause regrets later on. But the key factor to every choice is individual tastes and preferences.