Things You'll Need:
- Large cement or terra-cotta pot (at least 3 gallons) Waterproof sealer Drill Masking tape Clear silicone sealant Submersible pump Pea gravel 1/2 inch pipe Pot feet
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Step 1
Visit the home supply store to pair the correct pump with container. Deciding what size pump to purchase for the pot you choose will depend on the pot's size. Home supply stores will have charts that show which pump will be appropriate for the container size.
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Step 2
Decide where you plan to install your fountain. You will need an electrical outlet to plug in your fountain.
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Step 3
Paint waterproof sealer on the inside of the container, coating thoroughly. Allow the sealer to dry completely.
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Step 4
Look at the drainage hole to see if the cord from the pump's plug will fit through the hole. If it is too small, or if there is no hole, use the drill to carefully enlarge or make a hole large enough for the plug to fit through. Use a slow speed when drilling the hole.
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Step 5
Place the pump inside the pot, and push the plug through the hole. Pull most of the cord outside of the pot. Leave enough cord in the pot so that the pump can be raised several inches from the pot's bottom. Tape the remainder of the cord to the outside of the pot to hold in place temporarily.
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Step 6
Seal the hole and cord area with the silicone sealant. This must be airtight to avoid leaking. Allow sealant to dry for 24 hours.
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Step 7
Test pot for leaks by adding several inches of water. If there are no leaks, add several inches of pea gravel to the bottom of the pot, raising the pump slightly and positioning it atop the gravel, at the center of the pot. Set the pot atop the pot feet to allow the cord to easily exit the pot.
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Step 8
Secure the 1/2 inch pipe to the pump. The top of the pipe should be a few inches below the top of the pot.
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Step 9
Pour water into the pot. Plug the pump's plug into the electrical outlet to turn the fountain on.
