Blue Thumb DIY Handcrafted Rock Fountain Kits Instruction Manual
- June 12, 2024
- Blue Thumb
Table of Contents
Blue Thumb DIY Handcrafted Rock Fountain Kits
Product Information
The DIY Handcrafted Rock Fountain Kits are designed to make the installation
of your Handcrafted GFRC Fountain Bubbler Rock Kit easy. These kits are
compatible with GFRC Handcrafted Rock DIY Kits using 2×2 or 4×4 Basins. The
kits include all the necessary tools and components for installation,
including GFRC Fountain Bubbler Rock(s), Flexible Polymesh, Grate, Flexible
Hose, Plumbing Fitting or Manifold for Doubles and Triples High-Efficiency
Water Pump, and Water Basin Reservoir.
Subscribe to our YouTube channel, BlueThumbINC, for related informational
videos.
Product Usage Instructions
Step 1: Choose Your Fountain Basin Location
When selecting a location for your fountain, ensure that it is large enough to accommodate the basin and any possible water overspray from wind. Avoid placing the basin near vegetation or structures that are not suitable for excessively wet conditions. Place the basin/reservoir in the chosen location and use a shovel or marker paint to outline the ground around the basin. Before excavation begins, be sure to call MISS DIG or your utility company.
Step 2: Dig the Fountain Basin Hole
Follow the outline and dig a hole deep enough for the basin. The top edge of the basin should extend above the ground by about 1 inch. If the soil is unstable, dig the hole 3 inches deeper and back-fill with 3 inches of crushed rock or gravel to provide a solid foundation. Ensure that the ground is level before adding your basin.
Step 3: Placement and Leveling the Fountain Basin
Insert the fountain basin into the hole and use a level to ensure that it is level from front-to-back and side-to-side. Note that near one corner of the basin, there is a spinweld fitting installed. This corner should face the direction of your electrical outlet as it is where the pump will be installed. Rotate the basin until the corner with the spinweld is in the desired location. Place grates with the corner grate piece over the pump for access.
Optional Auto Fill Kit Install
If you are incorporating an Auto Fill Kit, you may bury your water supply line and make any Auto Fill connections at this time. The Auto Fill Kit item number is #ABDAUTO.
Step 4: Backfill Around the Basin
Use the previously removed soil to backfill around the fountain basin. Tamp the dirt tightly to prevent future settling. It is recommended to leave the basin covered while backfilling to prevent dirt from falling into the reservoir.
Step 5: Install the Pump and Plumbing
Thread the included fitting onto the pump discharge, then hand-tighten one end of the hose to the grey union on the pump. Set the pump inside the basin (it can be laid on its side if necessary). If you have a double or triple fountain system, there will be a manifold system attached to the pump to regulate water flow to each bubbler.
Step 6: Install Grate and Polymesh Screen
Place the grate on top of the basin with the triangular corner access panel over the pump. If you have a 2×2 basin, you will have a single grate.
For Use With GFRC Handcrafted Rock DIY Kits using 2×2 or 4×4 Basins
INCLUDED in this kit
Blue Thumb makes installation of your Handcrafted GFRC Fountain Bubbler Rock
Kit easy by following these instructions.
Subscribe to our YouTube channel, BlueThumbINC, for related informational
videos.
Tools necessary for installation:
- Scissors or utility knife
- Shovel
- Level
- Marker paint (optional)
- Jigsaw (only for double and triple fountains)
INSTALLATION
STEP 1
Choose Your Fountain Basin Location
When choosing a location for your fountain, select an area large enough to
accommodate the basin AND any possible water overspray from wind. The basin
should not be put near vegetation or structures not suitable for excessively
wet conditions.
Place basin/reservoir in chosen location and use a shovel or marker paint to
outline the ground around the basin.
IMPORTANT : BEFORE EXCAVATION BEGINS BE SURE TO CALL MISS DIG OR YOUR
UTILITY COMPANY.
STEP 2
Dig the Fountain Basin Hole
Follow the outline and dig a hole deep enough for the basin. You want the top
edge of the basin to extend above grade by about 1”. If the soil is unstable,
dig the hole 3” deeper and back-fill with 3” of crushed rock or gravel. This
will provide a solid fountain for the fountain basin. Make sure the ground is
level before adding your basin.
STEP 3
Placement and Leveling the Fountain Basin
Insert the fountain basin into the hole and use a level to make sure the basin
is level from front-to-back and side-to-side.
Note that near one corner of the basin there is a spinweld fitting installed
in the basin. This can be used with our optional Auto Fill Kit should you
desire (see below), but for now it’s important for that corner to face the
direction of your electrical outlet. This corner of the basin is where your
pump will be installed. Simply rotate the basin until the corner with the
spinweld is in the desired location. Place grates with the corner grate piece
over the pump as access.
Optional Auto Fill Kit Install
If an Auto Fill Kit is being incorporated, you may bury your water supply
line and make any Auto Fill connections at this time.
STEP 4
Backfill Around the Basin
Use previously removed soil to backfill around the fountain basin. Be sure to
tamp the dirt to pack it in as tightly as possible. This helps prevent future
settling. We recommend leaving your basin covered while backfilling to prevent
dirt from falling into the reservoir.
STEP 5
Install the Pump and Plumbing
Thread the included fitting onto the pump discharge then hand-tighten one end
of the hose to the grey union on the pump. Set the pump inside the basin (pump
may be laid on its side if necessary).
If you have a double or triple fountain system, there will be a manifold
system attached to the pump so you can regulate how much water goes to each
bubbler.
STEP 6
Install Grate and Polymesh Screen
Place the grate on top of the basin oriented with the triangular corner access
panel over the pump.
If you have the 2×2 basin you will have a single grate with triangular piece
cut for pump access.
If you have the 4×4 basin you will have two grates to piece together with one
of them cut for pump access.
Lay the polymesh screen on top of the grates and run the pump power cord up
through the access corner.
STEP 7
Attach the Bubbler Rock(s)
Determine placement of the bubbler rock(s). Take the threaded end of the hose
and pull up through the grating and then through a small hole cut in the
polymesh screen. The screen can be cut using scissors or a utility knife.
Next, place the bubbler rock on the basin near the protruding hose. Tilt rock
on edge and hand-tighten the union and hose together on the underside of the
rock. Carefully stand the rock upright while keeping the flex hose from
binding where it extends through the grate.
Repeat if you have more than one bubbler rock.
STEP 8
Fill and Test
Fill the basin reservoir with water. The water level should be at or near the
bottom of the grate. Check and adjust the water level periodically.
Turn on the pump by plugging it into a grounded GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter) 110 volt electrical outlet.
You may plug the pump into any outdoor rated timer (not included) if you wish
to only have the fountain running during certain hours of the day.
STEP 9
Water Flow Control
9a For double or triple fountains, achieve the desired sound and aesthetic
flow, adjust the rate of water to each of your bubblers by turning the red
ball valve handle on your plumbing until the desired flow is obtained.
9b For single fountains, you can change the flow slightly using the dial
located on the pump. Your fountain bubbler also comes with a small O-ring
insert located in the top where the water flows out which can be adjusted up
or down for desired water plume height. Splash should be kept to a minimum to
avoid excessive refilling.
STEP 10
Finishing Touches
Your fountain is now ready for the final touches of landscape design. Start by
covering your polymesh screen with river rock or other decorative rock
products. There are many styles and colors available, and these can be found
at any rock yard or garden center.
Avoid placing soil or mulch on top of the screen as it may fall through the
screen and clog your pump. Use landscape plants to decorate around your basin
completing the look.
ENJOY!
Time to grab your favorite drink and relax around your newly installed
fountain.
SHARE!
Inspire others by visiting our Facebook and Instagram pages to post a picture of your completed project for all to see!
CARING FOR YOUR GFRC BUBBLER ROCK
Tips to keep your bubbler rocks looking great!
Our GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) bubblers are designed to provide
years of enjoyment, with minimal care or maintenance required. Because they
are made of concrete, they are very rugged and will withstand the elements
without color fade or discoloration common in inferior faux stones.
Cleaning – Dirt spots
GFRC rocks will age in a very similar manner as natural stones. If you need to
clean the rocks, a good blast from a garden hose will usually work, although
mild soap and a soft-bristle brush can be used as well.
Cleaning – Algae and moss
Over time, moss and algae may develop on your rock, just as it would on natural stone. The time it takes will depend on how often you have your fountain turned on, how much shade or sunlight it gets, and how often fresh water is added to the fountain base. If your rock is accumulating more moss or algae than you desire we recommend using Fountain Cleaner by Blue Thumb, which is designed to reduce moss/algae growth.
Efflorescence – Causes and cleaning / removal
Any material containing Portland cement (pre-cast stone, GFRC products, etc)
has the potential to effloresce. Efflorescence is caused when soluble salts
and other water materials come to the surface of concrete and mortar. Most
often, efflorescence will be minor, and can manifest itself in a couple of
ways – either as a powdery, fluffy substance, which is brushed off with a
nylon-bristle scrub brush, or as a crystallized deposit on the rock.
To keep efflorescence to a minimum, run your bubbler non-stop for three to
four weeks after first installing the fountain. If efflorescence appears, do
not let it dry! While it is wet, scrub the area with the nylon-bristle brush,
until the efflorescence is gone. This may need to be repeated until all the
salt has been worked out of the rock. The key is to not let any efflorescence
dry! If the efflorescence has been allowed to dry and has attached itself to
the rock, then an efflorescence remover (such as Techni-Seal), is recommended.
Even with that, some staining or efflorescence may remain which is why rocks
should not be allowed to dry until any efflorescence has been worked out of
the rocks.
Electrical precautions
Always use a properly grounded outlet. Do not immerse the pump plug in water.
If
the plug falls into the water, DO NOT REACH INTO THE WATER TO REMOVE THE PUMP
PLUG. TURN OFF THE CIRCUIT FIRST! A “drip loop” should be used. The “drip
loop” is a loop in the electrical cord below the level of the receptacle or
plug, which prevents water from traveling along the cord. The National
Electric Code requires a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) be installed
in the branch circuit supplying fountain or pond equipment.
WARNING : NEVER REMOVE THE GROUND PIN FROM THE ELECTRICAL PLUG. FOR YOUR
PROTECTION, ALWAYS UNPLUG THE PUMP UNIT FROM ITS POWER SOURCE BEFORE
INSTALLING OR SERVICING YOUR FOUNTAIN. SHOULD THE UNIT APPEAR TO NOT BE
WORKING PROPERLY, DO NOT REACH FOR, REMOVE OR DISASSEMBLE THE PUMP BEFORE YOU
DISCONNECT THE POWER!
GFRC BUBBLER ROCK FOUNTAIN
Pump service and maintenance
Periodically inspect and clean the pre-filter. To clean, remove pre-filter
from the water pump and rinse using clean water. Replace the pre-filter if it
becomes damaged or torn.
The cap over the impeller should occasionally be removed to clean and inspect
the impeller assembly. The impeller is the only serviceable item and can be
pulled out of the pump body. Do not take the impeller apart. If it is worn or
broken, the entire impeller assembly should be replaced. This will restore the
pump to its original functionality. Pumps taken out of service for an extended
period with fluid inside run the risk of forming a crust, which may prevent
subsequent starting. Saltwater should be flushed out with fresh water. Always
check the electrical cord for sharp bends, which can cause premature cracking.
Do not use the power cord to lift or move the pump.
Reservoir maintenance
Handcrafted GFRC fountain kits are designed to require very little
maintenance. Because of the “pondless” design, there are no filters to change
and very little if any debris should get into your water reservoir. However,
periodic attention is suggested to identify any potential issues before they
start.
Check and adjust water level periodically, keeping the water level at or near
the bottom of the grating and no lower than the water pump outlet. Also,
remove any dirt, rock
or debris from inside the fountain base that may cause damage to the water
pump or flexible hose.
Note : Due to overspray and evaporation, clean water must be added
periodically. Failing to do so could cause the water pump to run dry,
resulting in a damaged pump. Damage to the pump due to an inadequate water
level will void the limited warranty. Periodically inspect the grating and
polymesh screen for damage. Replace if necessary.
Winterization of your fountain
In colder climates where temperatures reach 32°F on a regular basis, or where
temperatures will drop substantially below freezing even for short periods of
time, you should shut your fountain off during the cold months. Remove the
pump by disconnecting from the valve/manifold assembly. Store the pump in a
bucket of water (to prevent the pump seals from drying out) in a temperature
controlled atmosphere (above freezing). Leave the water in the reservoir, do
not empty it.
How to get replacement parts
For replacement parts contact us directly at:
Phone: 888-619-3474
Email: [email protected]
Go to www.shopbluethumb.com for
additional information and tutorial videos.
Maintenance
General Fountain and System Maintenance
- It is OK to run pump continuously 24/7, or you may choose to connect it to a timer.
- Fill evaporated water as necessary or considering installing an Auto Fill Kit #ABDAUTO.
- Add Muck Buster® #PB2682 every couple of weeks to the basin to ensure muck doesn’t build-up over time and clog the pump. 3 tablets treat 500 gallons of water.
- If algae forms on columns, brush off and use CrystalClear® Algae D- Solv® #PB2002 to quickly clear organic debris and remove odors. 1 ounce treats 360 gallons.
- It is OK to run pump continuously 24/7, or you may choose to connect it to a timer.
Winterizing:
- If you live in a climate that experiences prolonged freezing conditions, we recommend removing the pump from the basin when temperatures begin to drop below freezing. To remove the pump, disconnect from the valve/manifold assembly. Place the pump in a bucket of water in a temperature controlled atmosphere (above freezing). This prevents the pump seals from drying out.
- Do not drain the basin during the winter months. Allow the water to freeze in the basin so that the ground doesn’t cause the basin to rise or “pop up” from expansion of the freezing soil around it.
- Our GFRC Fountains are manufactured to withstand freezing conditions and may be left outside during the winter months if you choose. There is no need to cover the Fountains, but you may do so if you desire.
Spring Start-Up:
- Once everything has thawed in the spring we recommend draining the water in the basin and replacing it with fresh, clean water. A wet/dry vacuum works well for removing water and accumulated debris.
- Reconnect the pump and plug it in.
- Add Muck Buster® to remove any remaining muck that was not able to be removed manually.
If you need replacement parts please contact us directly at
888-619-3474 or email us at
[email protected].
Now, snap a picture of your completed waterfall and post it to our Facebook
page at facebook.com/bluethumbinc
www.shopbluethumb.com