How Much Does is Cost to Install a Backyard Water Fountain or Waterfall?

Water Fountain Installation Costs

Homeowners pay an average of $2,659 to install a backyard fountain or waterfall. Project prices typically range from $849 and $4,468 but can cost as little as $50 or as much as $8,000. Depending on factors like the size, complexity, and material, expect to pay between $100 and $4,000 for the precast unit, excluding installation. Pool waterfalls run an average slightly above $1,000.

If you want a fountain to enhance your lawn and garden but worry about the price, don't! One can be built at a reasonable price, and it requires very little upkeep, recycles the water that runs through it, and can even add value to your home.

Water Feature or Fountain Prices by Material

The price of a fountain itself will range from $50 to more than $4,000. Exact project price will depend on the material used. You can find a simple garden fountain or birdbath at a hardware store for very little money. Or you can install a full-sized waterfall cascading over a marble wall for thousands of dollars. Any way you want it, there is one that will meet your needs and your budget.

Types of Features

Some models will cost more to install than others, depending on the features you select and how difficult the unit is to install.

Average Cost of a Pool or Pond Waterfall

Adding to an Existing Swimming Pool

Adding to a swimming pool requires working with your pool's existing features and landscape. A professional will consider your pool's mechanics, drainage, masonry, pump system, and filtration. Contact a pool professional for a custom quote.

Pool Grotto Cost

Pool grottos usually run from $5,000 to $10,000 or more. Grotto structures provide overhead shelter, like a cave with a built-in bench. Waterfalls typically cascade over the top of the structure.

Custom Rico Rock or Faux Rock Feature

Custom faux rock features range from $1,000 to $7,000, not including installation. A licensed contractor or pool company can provide a quote for custom Rico Rock features. Typical installation rates apply.

Advantages of faux rock over other materials include:

• availability in a variety of standard designs,

• modular pieces adapt to a variety of settings,

• made of reinforced concrete for longevity,

• molded from natural rock formations for realistic look, and

• quick and easy installation.

Waterfall Kits

Pre-made kits range from $450 to $3,400. Installation takes 1 to 2 days, and kits include all the materials you need to complete the project yourself:

• waterfall structure,

• pumps,

• water lines or tubing, and

• installation instructions.

Pondless Waterfalls

These range from $1,500 to more than $5,000, depending on size and type of rock work. Also known as cascading waterfalls, these standalone structures boast some advantages over other models.

• Space: These can be small, so you can build them anywhere in your front or backyard.

• Safety: No pond means you don't have to worry as much about water safety. This option is perfect for homeowners with pets and/or small children.

• Cost: Most pumps operate on a timer to run only when you are home, saving money on energy bills.

• Maintenance: Simply fill the reservoir every few weeks as needed or install an automatic fill valve.

Installation Prices & Factors

In general, the cost of installation is likely to be similar to that of the fountain itself. Waterfall companies, pool companies, and pond builders will charge $40 to $65 per hour to install. Complete installation, including any necessary plumbing and electrical work, will take a minimum of 1 day, or 8 hours, at a total price of $320 to $520.

Size & Height

Whether you choose a small bird bath or a large backyard centerpiece, the size and height of your structure will be the main price factor.

Indoor vs. Outdoor

Indoor fountains usually cost less than outdoor models due to their smaller size, easy installation, and lack of maintenance. Simply fill a tabletop or floor fountain with water, plug it in, and turn it on. No plumbing, electrical, or site prep is necessary. Because indoor units aren't exposed to the elements, occasional wipe-downs and refills keep them running smoothly.

Like with outdoor fountains, indoor models are available with features like lighting, programmable settings, and high-end materials. The price will increase with added features and higher-end materials.

Plumbing & Electricity

If you choose to install on your own, you should still use professionals to set up plumbing and electrical components. You can hire a professional plumber at a rate of $45 to $65 per hour. Hiring an electrician will run $65 to $85 per hour.

The actual rate for a plumber's services will depend on the distance your fountain is from a water source. Similarly, the distance from it to a power source will determine how much an electrician will charge. Another price factor to consider is how much water and electricity it requires.

Installing Solar Water Fountains

Expect to pay anywhere between $50 and $200 for solar fountains. The price of these models may be higher than a non-solar units of similar size and style. Small, simple solar fountains will be at the lower end of the price range, while multi-tiered versions will be at the higher end. However, the amount of money you save on operating costs offsets the initial investment. These units can save you money on energy bills. Exact savings will depend on the wattage of the pump, how many hours per day it runs, and the rate of electricity in your area.

For example, a small pond fountain uses a 44-watt pump to run 24 hours per day where the cost per kilowatt hour (kWh) for electricity is 24 cents.

• 44 watts/1000 = 0.44 kilowatts

• 0.44 kilowatts x 24 hours per day = 1.056 kWh

• 1.056 kWh x $0.24 = $.02534

• Operating Cost/Solar Savings = approx. $0.25 per day or $91.25 per year

The electrical installation for a solar water fountain is much less than the work needed for a standard model. A high-end solar pump with a good solar collector and battery can power a pump 24 hours a day.

Building into Your Existing Landscaping or Garden

No additional charges should apply to building into your existing landscape unless you require significant work. The cost to reslope a lawn, for example, can range from $1,000 to $3,000.

In some cases, there may be an additional cost to excavate your land or an extra cost to install a pond. If large amounts of your property need to be dug up and paved or tiled over to accommodate your fountain, you can expect the cost to clear and prepare the construction site to far exceed the price of the fountain.

ROI & Resale Value

Water features can increase curb appeal and resale value. However, fountains must be clean, function properly, and match the style of the home. Because they are easy to maintain and do not pose a safety hazard, prospective buyers typically view them as an asset. If ROI is a primary concern, consider hiring a professional to ensure it will last.

Drinking Fountains

The cost of an indoor drinking fountain typically falls between $1,000 and $2,000, while an outdoor version runs between $1,000 and $3,000, including installation. Non-traditional, artistic fountains can be $4,000 or more. A plumber will charge an hourly rate of $45 to $150 or a flat rate of $160 to $430 for a typical job.

Unlike water features, drinking fountains do not recirculate liquid. For the most refreshing drink, you can add refrigeration and/or filtration. Many outdoor models also feature freeze resistance. With each additional feature, project costs creep up toward the higher end of the range.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

A homeowner with plumbing and electrical knowledge can install his/her own basic water feature. When plans involve a more elaborate structure like a grotto, complex details like lighting, or significant site preparation like excavating, it's usually better to consult a fountain professional to design and install a beautiful and functional garden waterfall.