Why Is My Solar Fountain Not Working?

When I first got my solar fountain, I was excited to see it in action. However, after setting it up, I noticed that it wasn’t working as it should. Probably something that was my fault because as much as I try, I’m not exactly what you would call naturally tech-savvy. Even after flipping through the manual to make sure everything was set up correctly, it still wasn’t functioning properly. There were signs of life with the solar fountain, but not the full functionality I was expecting.

After some troubleshooting, I was able to figure out the problem and get my fountain working again, and it’s been rock solid for 4 years running since (more on the one I’d recommend later on in the article) and while it was a headache in the beginning, turns out the fault was a classic BTE (Between The Ears) problem.

If you’re experiencing similar issues with your solar fountain (and I mean not working, not BTE), don’t worry. There are several reasons why your solar fountain might not be working, and many of them can be easily fixed. In this blog post we’ll share some common problems that solar fountains face and provide some tips on how to troubleshoot them.

Whether your fountain isn’t running at all or it’s not producing enough water, I’ll help you get to the bottom of the issue so you can get your new solar fountain up and running at full glory.

Beautifully designed decorative solar fountain on outdoor deck table. Original picture from here.

Troubleshooting 4 Reasons Your Solar Fountain Stopped Working

If your solar fountain has stopped working, there are a few things you can check to troubleshoot the issue. The overwhelming majority of problems are going to be related to one of these issues. Go through this list, and eventually you’ll get to the point where everything is running smooth!

Check the Solar Panel

The solar panel is responsible for converting sunlight into electricity to power the fountain. If the solar panel is not working correctly, the fountain will not receive enough power to operate.

Here are a few things to check:

  • Make sure the solar panel is not covered by debris or shade.
  • Disconnect the solar panel from the fountain and test it with a multimeter to ensure it is producing the correct voltage.
  • If the solar panel is not producing enough voltage, try cleaning it with a soft cloth and soapy water.

Check the Pump

The pump is responsible for circulating the water in the fountain. If the pump is not working correctly, the water will not flow, and the fountain will not operate.

Here are the things to look for when checking the pump:

  • Make sure the pump is not clogged with debris.
  • Disconnect the pump from the fountain and test it with a battery to ensure it is working correctly.
  • If the pump is not working, try cleaning it with a cotton swab and hot water.

Check the Battery Pack

The battery pack stores energy from the solar panel to power the fountain when the sun is not shining. If the battery pack is not working correctly, the fountain may not operate correctly.

When looking at the battery pack you want to look at:

  • Make sure the battery pack is fully charged.
  • Disconnect the battery pack from the fountain and test it with a multimeter to ensure it is producing the correct voltage.
  • If the battery pack is not producing enough voltage, try charging it in direct sunlight for a few days.

Check the Hose

The hose is responsible for carrying the water from the pump to the fountain. If the hose is clogged or damaged, the water may not flow correctly, and the fountain may not operate.

Here are the final few things to check:

  • Make sure the hose is not clogged with debris.
  • Check the hose for any damage, such as cracks or holes.
  • If the hose is damaged, replace it with a new one.

In conclusion, troubleshooting your solar fountain is relatively easy, and you can fix most issues on your own. By following the above steps, you should be able to identify and fix the problem with your fountain.

Which Solar Fountain Did I Buy?

I went with Alukiki after doing a lot of research to make sure anything I bought was at least one of the better ones out there and once I actually got everything setup correctly and working properly, and the solar panels charged up, it was a fantastic setup.

From Alukiki’s company media packet. It is a pretty sweet system, and comes with a lot of nozzles.

I liked the versatility – the fact there were multiple nozzles, light settings, and that the reviews I could find back then all mentioned that this was a solar fountain that was well constructed, well made, and would work perfectly for long periods of time. That sounded exactly what I wanted and so for a reasonable price I was willing to take that chance.

This solar fountain is still very affordable on Amazon and the many high ratings show it’s a choice that many others have found fantastic, as well.

Cleaning and Maintenance for Solar Fountain Health

As a solar fountain owner, I know how important it is to keep your fountain clean and well-maintained. Regular cleaning and maintenance can not only improve the longevity of your fountain but also ensure that it is working efficiently. In this section, I will discuss some simple steps to clean and maintain your solar fountain.

Clean the Solar Panel

The solar panel is an essential component of your solar fountain. It is responsible for converting sunlight into energy to power the fountain. Over time, the solar panel can become covered in dirt, debris, and even bird droppings, which can reduce its efficiency.

To keep your solar panel clean:

  • Turn off the fountain and disconnect the solar panel from the fountain.
  • Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently clean the surface of the solar panel.
  • If there is stubborn dirt or debris, use a mild detergent and water solution to clean the panel.
  • Rinse the solar panel with clean water and let it dry completely before reconnecting it to the fountain.

Clean the Pump and Filter

The pump and filter are responsible for circulating water through the fountain. Over time, they can become clogged with dirt and debris, which can reduce the flow of water and even cause the pump to stop working.

To clean the pump and filter:

  • Turn off the fountain and disconnect the pump from the fountain.
  • Remove the pump cover and filter from the pump.
  • Use a soft brush or toothbrush to gently clean the pump and filter.
  • Rinse the pump and filter with clean water and let them dry completely before reassembling them.

Remove Debris from the Fountain

Debris can accumulate in the fountain over time, which can not only make it look dirty but also clog the pump and filter.

To remove debris from the fountain:

  • Turn off the fountain and drain the water.
  • Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any dirt or debris from the fountain.
  • If there is stubborn debris, use a mild detergent and water solution to clean the fountain.
  • Rinse the fountain with clean water and let it dry completely before refilling it with water.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your solar fountain clean and well-maintained. Regular cleaning and maintenance can not only improve the efficiency of your fountain but also prolong its life.

Checking Potential Battery Issues

If your solar fountain is not working, it could be due to a battery issue. Here are some steps you can take to check if the battery is the problem:

Battery Pack Replacement

If your solar fountain has a battery pack, it may need to be replaced. To replace the battery pack, open the cover on the back of the solar panel and switch out the old battery with four AA rechargeable batteries. Make sure the new batteries are fully charged before using them.

Check the Magnet

The magnet in the pump can sometimes become dislodged, causing the pump to stop working. To check the magnet, remove the pump from the fountain and inspect it for any damage or misalignment. If the magnet is damaged or misaligned, it may need to be replaced.

Check the Solar Panel Connection

If the solar panel is not producing enough power to run the fountain, it may be due to a loose connection. Check the connection between the solar panel and the fountain to make sure it is secure. If the connection is loose, tighten it and try running the fountain again.

In addition to these steps, it is important to make sure the solar panel is receiving enough sunlight to charge the battery. Make sure the solar panel is placed in a location with direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours per day.

By following these steps, you can troubleshoot potential battery issues with your solar fountain and get it working again in no time.

Warranty and Repairs

If you have a solar fountain that is not working, it is important to know your warranty and repair options. Here are some things to consider:

Contact the Manufacturer

If your solar fountain is still under warranty, the first step is to contact the manufacturer. They can help troubleshoot the issue and determine if a repair or replacement is necessary. Be sure to have your warranty information and proof of purchase ready when you contact them.

Some manufacturers offer a limited warranty on their solar fountains, which typically covers defects in materials and workmanship. For example, Sunnydaze Decor offers a one-year warranty on their products, while Smart Solar offers a two-year warranty.

Repairing the Solar Fountain

If your solar fountain is no longer under warranty, you may be able to repair it yourself or take it to a professional repair service. Here are some common issues and potential solutions:

  • Pump not working: Make sure the pump is completely submerged in water and that the hose is correctly attached with no kinks. If the pump is clogged, try flushing it out with a hose. If it still does not work, the pump may need to be replaced.
  • Solar panel not charging: Clean the solar panel with a soft cloth and check that it is getting direct sunlight. If the panel is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
  • Battery not holding a charge: Check that the battery is connected properly and that the solar panel is charging it. If the battery is old or damaged, it may need to be replaced.

Before attempting any repairs, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines. If you are not comfortable making repairs yourself, it is best to take your solar fountain to a professional repair service.

In conclusion, knowing your warranty and repair options can help you get your solar fountain working again. Contact the manufacturer if your fountain is still under warranty, and consider repairing it yourself or taking it to a professional if it is not.

That’s the Checklist for Fixing Your Solar Fountain!

A solar fountain not working can be frustrating, especially if you are new to solar fountains. However, with the help of the troubleshooting guide provided by experts, it is possible to identify and fix the issue.

The most common reasons for a solar fountain not working include a lack of direct sunlight, clogged pump or nozzles, faulty wiring, and low battery charge. By following the steps outlined in the guide, you can identify the issue and take the necessary steps to fix it.

It is important to note that regular maintenance is crucial to keep your solar fountain working efficiently. This includes cleaning the pump and nozzles, checking the wiring, and ensuring that the solar panel is placed in direct sunlight.

Overall, a solar fountain can be a beautiful addition to your garden or outdoor space, but it requires proper care and maintenance to keep it working. By following the troubleshooting guide and performing regular maintenance, you can enjoy the soothing sound of flowing water for years to come.

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