As you approach the garden gate you can hear the gentle splashing of a small solar fountain. You step through the cool shade of the overhanging vines into the brightly lit and wildly colorful world of the garden. There you see several small fountains, one on a tall pedestal where the birds dip in and out of the spraying droplets and another is tucked into a bed of succulent plants where a dragonfly sits and takes as “sun bath”.

You notice that the gravel path is lined with pretty little copper lanterns that seem to mix perfectly with the grasses and plants that also reside at the edges of the many walkways. Further on you notice a lovely flowering tree of some sort, and note its overhanging branches that sway in the breeze.

At the back of the flower garden you realize that there are rows of herbs and vegetables peeking up from behind a short fence which is also lined with those delightful copper lanterns. At the back of the vegetable bed is a small and brightly painted wooden shed where it is clear the gardener spends a great deal of their time.

So, this lovely daylight scene is clearly a beloved garden full of growing things and contented wild creatures. What happens to such a scene after the sun sets? Clearly the gardener has installed many lights along the paths and walkways, but they might also have installed a much wider range of lighting fixtures, particularly if they used solar powered lighting. Additionally, those tinkling fountains might also be powered by the sun as well!

Modern gardeners have the benefit of the rapid developments taking place in the field of solar energy, and one of the most immediate is the wide availability of solar powered lighting and even pumps. The garden discussed above could be gently lit during the evening hours by the pathway lighting fixtures, it could easily have a solar powered shed light installed at the back of the vegetable garden, and the two fountains and beautiful flowering tree could all benefit from solar flood lights.

Fixtures such as these could be installed with almost no tools and by someone with absolutely no knowledge of electricity or wiring. Solar fixtures will have their chargers either built in or connected through durable wires, they can be quickly and simply relocated, and rarely require bulb replacement. They will cost absolutely nothing to operate and add a whole new dimension to even the most beautiful garden. For safety and security, solar security lights provide a bright beam of light when their sensors are triggered my movement.

There is perhaps no better place than a garden for appreciating the bounties of nature. Though some people believe that cheap garden decor is hard to achieve the fact of the matter is that it is really not all that difficult because there are several useful ideas worth pondering about in this regard. Artificial lighting can add a lot to the overall ambiance of a garden and so too can statues as well as ornamental items. However, these items can prove to be more expensive than you would want.

Eco-Friendly Solutions

Why not then consider cheap garden decor ideas such as turning to eco-friendly solutions such as solar garden decor. There no doubts the fact that solar energy embodies a powerful yet cheap source of energy and so, products that use solar power can be used to affect cheap garden decor. Many decorative products as well as applications make use of solar energy and these are the items that you should check out in regard to finding cheap garden decor solutions.

Solar garden lights are cheaper than any other form of lighting and they provide enough illumination; provided of course, they are exposed to sunlight throughout the day. Even better, when you incorporate solar garden lights in your cheap garden decor ideas you won’t need to worry about messy wires, which makes this item of garden decor safe as well as easy to install.

However, when using solar garden lights you need to ensure that these lights are not allowed to come into contact with other light sources as that would prevent the photocells from switching on till it gets sufficiently dark. A fully charged photocell will allow the solar garden lights to illuminate the garden for about eight hours, provided the cells have received sufficient amount of sunlight during the day. The bulbs never burn out and this only underscores the viability of using solar garden lights for cheap garden decor.

Solar energy is available for free and so, helps to cut costs and maintaining the solar garden lights too is relatively inexpensive. For hanging garden decor ideas why not consider installing wind chimes that will emit sweet sounds each time there is slight breeze. These soothing sounds will help you to relax in your garden while at the same time are also as beautiful as they are melodious. Bird baths too lend them well as garden decor items that are particularly suited to adorning small sized gardens.

There are several instances of technology of everyday use being decorative as well. Solar power lights, while efficient in the technological sense, have now found their way into being a décor element as well. The understanding is simple. Solar power lights have been incorporated into elements of décor to give a whole new dimension to your landscaping.

Take for example water bodies that can enhance the look of your garden or your outdoor patio. Shaped like fish, frogs, kingfishers and other water related animals, these water bodies have constantly re-circulating water. How this works is that the motor is solar powered and you therefore have a wonderful piece of décor in your hands. What’s more, once powered, any of these can be placed anywhere in the house or outside.

A version of such solar powered water beauties comes in the shape of a bird bath. These can be free standing structures or those that come in tiers. The effect is mesmerizing and the sound of water can be soothing at any time of the day or night and wherever they may be placed. These bird baths are available in simple and regular forms. You also get them beautifully carved to resemble a water nymph or an even a piece reminiscent of an ancient era. You can choose one to suit the décor of your outdoor space.

Fountains are another offering in the solar powered water range. These can be simple ones that can be placed in your existing ponds for a heightened effect. They also come in the form of cascades, pyramids and steps. Each of these further come in a range of materials and textures to suit the ambiance that they are placed in. Some of these fountains even come with attached lily pads for a more realistic look.

An evening meal on your patio can be heightened with the use of decorative multi-purpose solar balls. Once charged, these can be placed on a table or can even be floated in your existing water body to give an ethereal look to the place. You even have orbs that constantly change color and are connected to a central globe with all the power. It is your imagination that can give shape to where these can be used. Besides water based solar power décor, there are several other practical uses that have emerged from solar power. We just need to be sure of our needs and we will definitely find a product to suit our needs.

>> Browse Discount Solar Powered Pond Pumps & Read User Reviews

Did you know a solar powered pump can save you up $12 in electricity every year? Give your pools or ponds a complete facelift while helping the environment, and choose the smart, sophisticated option!

Finding high quality solar pumps with longevity and power can often become the dilema. Luckily, you don’t need to consult professionals. I find reading from the BUYERS themselves provides me the greatest insights.

Simply visit www.Solar-Powered-Pond-Pumps.com to find the top selection of solar pumps on the market, complete with true USER REVIEWS to help make your buying decision quick and easy. It’s like listening to what everyone who’s ever owned a solar pump has to say about them. What could beat that?

The latest solar pump models work fantastically even when your pond water is not clean. It works as it has a solar panel that is detached from the pump itself. This is also beneficial because you can then be sure to place the panel where it will receive the most unobstructed sunlight. These pumps can be both submersible and external, so they are aesthetically pleasing while still being functional.

The last one I noticed at the market was even designed to resemble a lillypad. How cool!

Fountain pumps bring a great aesthetic to any still water. These are ideal for residential and commercial landscapes alike. I’ve even heard of farmers using fountain pumps to keep their livestock waterholes from going stagnate and overtaken by algae build ups.

Several models are great for waterfalls too. Nothing sounds more blissful than the burbling waters of your own backyard brooks. The feeling is simply transcendental when you return home to retire from a busy day at the office. It’s almost a perfect escape from the daily hussle and bussle. Who needs a vacation anyway when you host paradise in your very own backyard!

You’ll find pumps in a variety of sizes as well. From the smallest bird bath fountain to the largest cascading waterfall, these solar pond pumps fit for your every need. Whether you’d like a scale model of ‘Old Faithful’ in the backyard or just a bird bath on the patio, there are boundless possibilities to suit your vision and style.

—————————————————-

Shop & Browse Solar Pumps on Sale Now!

—————————————————-

Escaping from the turbulent, chaotic mess of our everyday work schedule, itâ??s one of lifeâ??s finest rewards to simply recline in the luxury of your very own backyard. And in the midst of singing birds and sunshine, to hear the beautiful burble of cascading falls and rippling waters. No feeling is quite the same, nor as beautiful a sight.

Generally people become so tangled up with locating their new waterscape in just right spot or finding that perfect contractor, that they often forget to put any consideration into the pump that will power their new monument of splendor. While all those other things are important, your water pump is quite possibly the most essential piece you can find without the need of an expensive contractor. Especially with the popular solar options available today.

Some people just plug-and-chug using outlet power from their homes, but thatâ??s not only the least cost effective solution but also environmentally aloof. Thatâ??s right. Aloof.

One can save money as well as lessen the impact on the environment by installing solar powered pond pumps rather than using expensive power from the grid. The average American will spend $8 – $12 a year just powering their old water pumps. More sophisticated solar pumps generate their own electricity at no cost to you, and cleanly! The electric plants today are still too often using coal and leaving a massive carbon footprint on the earth. Donâ??t get stuck as one of the many who contribute to the abuse of our planet. The sunâ??s energy comes for free and is one of the best resources of electricity, not to mention completely carbon neutral. The solar phenomenon takes the burden off your pocket, and your ecologically aware soul!

Solar pond pumps are also incredibly versatile. You will find their use in a number of configurations like for waterfalls, fountains, streams, ponds, reflecting pools, water gardens, and many other creative landscape designs. Solar pumps also come in submersible and external models.

Worried about your new investment breaking? Todayâ??s solar panels arenâ??t what they used to be in the science labs decades ago. Now commercial-use panels are manufactured to withstand strong wind, rain, hail etc. Gone are the days when solar power was considered to be a high maintenance complication. The solar panels of our time are robust, reliable solutions that will never be on your mind to worry.

You will find solar pumps in a variety of sizes as well. From the smallest bird bath fountain to the largest cascading waterfall, these solar pond pumps fit for your every need. Whether you want to set up a scale model of â??Old Faithfulâ?? in the backyard or would just like a bird bath on the patio, there are boundless possibilities to suit your style.

If you are thinking of doing a few upgrades to your garden, have you ever thought of getting a solar powered pump birdbath? In fact, why buy one, when you can make it?

So why would you want to make a solar powered pump birdbath?

The Advantages Are:

Fountains circulate the water, keeping the bird bath from going stagnant The pump does not have to plugged into your power supply The pump runs on DC power, so no inverter is needed. It requires little power (about 6 volts) so you only need a few small solar panels. No batteries are required, since the pump only really needs to operate during the day when the sun is out and the birds are in the garden. You could learn to make your own solar panels, reducing the cost even further. The birdbath can be placed anywhere in your garden, without the need for unsightly wires.

And what does it take to make a solar powered pump birdbath?

The easiest way is to simply buy a birdbath with a pump and fountain already fitted. Then all you need to do is wire up some small solar panels.

The alternative is to, and more DIY approach is to buy a birdbath that is ready for a fountain pump to be installed (it has the right holes, and a place for the pump to be installed), and then add the various pump and power components.

If you go the DIY route, then you will need to get:

The Birdbath:

Here you have a choice of cascading fountains, copper fountains, terracotta birdbaths, resin fountains, or the conventional ceramic birdbath. Just make sure a pump system can be installed on the birdbath.

The Fountain Attachment:

This is optional, but it make the water spirt out the top, instead of just trickling out. It can be found at you rlocal nursery or hardware store.

Small DC Pump:

Depending your birdbath size, the volume of water to be pumped and how high you want to pump it, will help you decide on the voltage and size pump needed. For your average, medium-sized birdbath, a small 6 volt DC pump will suffice.

Thin, Flexible PVC Pipe:

This what the water will flow through. It is best to ask your nursery about the various irrigation options. Otherwise, get ideas from finished pump powered fountains. As a rule of thumb, the PVC piping needs to be narrow to maintain enough water pressure.

Silicon Sealant:

This is used to seal all joins where the water could escape from, and also to insulate any bare wire from getting wet where it has been joined.

Solar Panels:

This is what sets this off-grid system apart from conventionally powered birdbath fountains. The pump will help determine how many solar panels you need. For a 6 volt DC pump, you will need at least a 6 volt solar panel, but rater double up on the solar panels for times when the sun is weak.

->To get the solar panels, you have 2 choices:

1 : Buy a small expensive solar kit from Wallmart or Target or any other local supplier.

2 : The cheaper, DIY route and make the panel yourself. Luckily this is actually rather simple for anyone to learn to do. So if you want to learn to make your own, then carry on reading to the end…

To get the maximum sunlight, the solar panels need to be fixed in simple frame, and be south-facing (if you are in the northern hemisphere).

How easy is it to put it all together?

Once you have all the components and tools at your disposal, putting the system together shouldn’t take you more than 2 hours. And within an afternoon you could have a fully functional solar powered pump birdbath.

A nice added extra is to hook up some batteries to the system. That way you can store any excess power, and the pump could run all day and night. If you do want the fountain to operate for 24 hours, then you will need the following:

Deep cycle battery:

Since the system is small, a 12 volt battery should be enough. This will be wired up between the charge controller and the pump.

Solar charge controller:

This is not essential, but it prevents your battery from over-charging. So it can really extend the life of the battery. It will be wired up between the solar panels and the battery.

The nice thing about about building a solar powered pump birdbath yourself is that it is not only cheaper, but once you know how, you can make as many as you want. It could also make a great gift for an energy conscious friend or family member.

One of the latest styles of birdbaths that are quickly gaining popularity are solar birdbaths. These unique pieces have a fountain that runs on a pump powered with solar energy. So why choose a solar birdbath? Let’s take a look at some of the reasons you may want to opt for this style over others.

How They Work

Solar birdbaths have a fountain in the center that uses solar energy to spray water. The fountain runs on a submersible pump that is powered by a series of small solar panels. These panels are connected to the pump with a cord, allowing you to place them back away from the bird bath so they aren’t too distracting.

When the sun hits the solar panels it provides power to the pump and makes the fountain in the center of the birdbath spray. The best part about choosing a solar birdbath over an electric birdbath is that you don’t have to worry about wiring or running bulky cords all over your yard to power the pump.

Why They Are a Good Thing

Besides being beautiful and relaxing to have around, solar birdbaths serve another purpose. Mainly, they attract more birds to your yard.

The sound of the running water alerts birds that there is a place for them to bathe. This is great especially for birds who eat only insects and are harder to draw into your yard with a bird feeder. Having a solar bird bath can allow you to see birds that you may not otherwise have seen in your yard.

Birds can also spot the movement of the water as they fly over it more easily than if the water was standing still in the birdbath. Again, this often is enough to tempt them into making a pit stop in your yard so you will get to see more birds.

Solar birdbaths are not much more expensive than traditional birdbaths, are easy to set up and run and come in a wide variety of sizes, materials and colors.

Ideas?
Update:

My real reason is to provide drinking water that isn’t freezing cold. The birds that do not migrate seem to get very thirsty when everything is below freezing for days and days (no liquid water out there…)

People in my neighborhood feed them, but no one seems to be watering them.

I have seen our winter birds (cardinals, sparrows, etc) actually bathe in warm water I put out. It’s gotta be up to them if that’s a good idea….
The real object is drinking water, not bathing.