Water Features: Adding Fountains, Waterfalls, and More to Your Pool
Short guide to choosing water features that add style and value without excess cost or maintenance.
Top feature choices:
- Waterfalls (rock or sheer descent): high visual impact; good for natural or modern designs.
- Deck jets / laminars: elegant arcs, great for motion and evening effects.
- Bubblers on tanning ledges: low-cost, family-friendly feature.
- Scuppers and wall spouts: clean, architectural water accents.
Selection tips:
- Match scale: small pools — one subtle feature; large pools — multiple coordinated elements.
- Mind sound: powerful waterfalls are dramatic but noisy; bubblers are quiet.
- Plan for plumbing/electrical access and a variable-speed pump for efficiency.
Cost & installation quick facts:
- Simple bubblers/fountains: $500–3,000
- Medium waterfalls/sheers: $2,000–8,000
- Large rock waterfalls/custom arrays: $8,000–20,000+
- Retrofits add 20–40% over new-construction integration.
Maintenance highlights:
- Regular debris removal and seal inspection.
- Check seals/gaskets monthly; service pumps and valves annually.
- LED integration recommended for low-energy night effects.
Quick action plan:
- Choose one primary feature that fits your style and budget.
- Add a variable-speed pump and LED lighting to maximize ROI.
- Start with a single feature retrofit; expand later if desired.
Want a custom feature recommendation for your pool dimensions and style? Send the pool size and style and I’ll suggest options.
Why Add Water Features to Your Pool?
Visual Impact
Water features create stunning focal points that draw the eye and add architectural interest to your pool design.
Aesthetic Benefits:
- Creates movement and visual interest
- Adds depth and dimension to your pool
- Provides beautiful reflections of light
- Enhances your home’s overall curb appeal
Auditory Experience
The sound of moving water has a profound effect on our sense of peace and relaxation.
Therapeutic Benefits:
- Masks unwanted neighborhood noise
- Creates a calming, spa-like atmosphere
- Promotes relaxation and stress reduction
- Enhances outdoor entertainment experiences
Increased Property Value
Water features are desirable additions that can significantly boost your property’s appeal.
Value Enhancement:
- Makes your property stand out from neighbors
- Creates luxury resort feel at home
- Attracts potential buyers when selling
- Provides excellent return on investment
Types of Pool Water Features
Waterfalls
Waterfalls are among the most dramatic and popular water features for Florida pools.
Natural Rock Waterfalls:
- Built with natural or artificial rock formations
- Creates authentic, tropical appearance
- Can be designed as grottos with swim-through spaces
- Perfect for naturalistic pool designs
Sheer Descent Waterfalls:
- Thin, elegant sheets of falling water
- Modern, sophisticated appearance
- Can span several feet wide
- Creates stunning visual effect with LED lighting
Rain Curtain Waterfalls:
- Multiple streams of water falling like rain
- Creates gentle, soothing sound
- Excellent for modern pool designs
- Can be installed on raised walls or structures
Spa Spillovers:
- Water cascades from elevated spa into pool
- Combines two features in one elegant design
- Creates beautiful visual connection
- Popular in luxury pool designs
Fountains
Fountains add elegance and movement to your pool with varying degrees of drama.
Deck Jets (Laminars):
- Arcing streams of water that shoot across the pool
- Can be synchronized with LED lighting
- Creates playful, dynamic atmosphere
- Perfect for entertaining
Bubblers:
- Small, gentle fountains in shallow areas
- Great for kids and tanning ledges
- Adds visual interest without overwhelming sound
- Relatively affordable option
Centerpiece Fountains:
- Large, dramatic fountain in pool center
- Classic, elegant appearance
- Creates strong focal point
- Available in various styles and sizes
Wall Fountains:
- Mounted on pool walls or raised features
- Space-efficient design
- Creates beautiful water curtain effect
- Perfect for smaller pools
Scuppers
Scuppers are decorative spouts that pour water into your pool from elevated features.
Traditional Scuppers:
- Classic Mediterranean-style design
- Often made of copper or stone
- Creates elegant, sophisticated look
- Perfect for Tuscan or Spanish-style homes
Modern Scuppers:
- Sleek, contemporary designs
- Can be integrated into walls or columns
- Creates clean, minimalist appearance
- Ideal for modern pool designs
Multiple Scupper Arrays:
- Several scuppers arranged together
- Creates dramatic wall of water
- Excellent for larger pools
- Stunning with LED lighting
Deck Jets and Laminars
These features create arcing streams of water that can span impressive distances.
Standard Deck Jets:
- Shoot water 6-15 feet into pool
- Adjustable flow and direction
- Can be installed in pool deck
- Creates playful, interactive element
LED Laminars:
- Illuminated water streams
- Color-changing capabilities
- Creates stunning nighttime effects
- Perfect for evening entertaining
Bubblers and Aerators
Gentle water movement perfect for shallow areas and relaxation zones.
Tanning Ledge Bubblers:
- Installed on baja shelves or tanning ledges
- Creates gentle, relaxing water movement
- Perfect for lounging areas
- Adds visual interest without overwhelming sound
Pool Aerators:
- Surface water agitation
- Helps cool pool water in hot weather
- Improves water circulation
- Affordable option for water movement
Design Considerations
Pool Style Compatibility
Your water features should complement your pool’s overall design aesthetic.
Naturalistic Pools:
- Rock waterfalls and grottos
- Multiple small fountains
- Natural stone scuppers
- Beach entry with water movement
Modern Pools:
- Sheer descent waterfalls
- Clean deck jets
- Minimalist fountains
- Geometric scuppers
Mediterranean Pools:
- Traditional scuppers
- Tiered fountains
- Classic water features
- Ornate designs
Tropical Pools:
- Large rock waterfalls
- Multiple water features
- Lagoon-style elements
- Naturalistic designs
Scale and Proportion
Water features should be appropriately sized for your pool and property.
Small Pools:
- Single, modest water feature
- Bubblers or small fountains
- Avoid overwhelming the space
- Focus on elegance over drama
Medium Pools:
- One primary feature plus secondary elements
- Moderate waterfall or fountain
- Balanced design
- Multiple focal points possible
Large Pools:
- Multiple water features
- Dramatic, large-scale elements
- Feature combinations
- Resort-style designs
Sound Considerations
The sound level of water features affects your overall outdoor experience.
Quiet Zones:
- Bubblers and gentle aerators
- Small, low-flow fountains
- Subtle water movement
- Perfect for relaxation areas
Moderate Sound:
- Standard waterfalls
- Medium-sized fountains
- Deck jets
- Good balance of sound and visual
Dramatic Sound:
- Large, powerful waterfalls
- Multiple water features
- High-flow fountains
- Creates strong auditory presence
Lighting Integration
Water features and lighting create stunning nighttime effects.
Underwater Lighting
Illuminating Falling Water:
- LED lights within waterfalls
- Creates beautiful light patterns
- Enhances visual drama
- Color-changing options available
Fountain Lighting:
- Submersible lights in fountain bases
- Highlights water movement
- Creates mesmerizing effects
- Perfect for evening entertaining
External Lighting
Uplighting:
- Lights positioned to illuminate water from below
- Creates dramatic shadows and reflections
- Enhances feature visibility
- Adds depth to design
Downlighting:
- Lights positioned above water features
- Creates sparkling effects on water surface
- Mimics moonlight on water
- Natural, elegant appearance
Cost Considerations
Water Feature Pricing
Simple Features:
- Bubblers: $500-1,500 each
- Small fountains: $1,000-3,000
- Basic deck jets: $800-2,000
Mid-Range Features:
- Medium waterfalls: $3,000-8,000
- Sheer descents: $2,000-5,000
- Traditional scuppers: $1,500-4,000
Premium Features:
- Large rock waterfalls: $8,000-20,000+
- Custom fountains: $5,000-15,000
- Complex feature arrays: $10,000-25,000+
Installation Costs
New Pool Construction:
- Integration cost: 10-20% of base pool price
- Most cost-effective time to add features
- Seamless coordination with pool build
- Better placement options
Retrofit Projects:
- Additional plumbing required: $1,000-3,000
- Structural modifications: $2,000-5,000
- Electrical upgrades: $500-2,000
- Total retrofit premium: 20-40% above new construction
Operating Costs
Pump Requirements:
- Additional pump often needed: $800-2,500
- Monthly electricity: $30-80 depending on usage
- Variable speed pumps reduce costs
Water Costs:
- Evaporation increases: 10-20% more water loss
- Additional fill water needed: $50-150 annually
- Covers can reduce evaporation
Maintenance Requirements
Regular Maintenance
Daily:
- Check water level
- Inspect for proper operation
- Remove debris from features
Weekly:
- Clean pump strainer baskets
- Inspect for leaks
- Check water flow patterns
Monthly:
- Clean feature surfaces
- Inspect seals and gaskets
- Test water chemistry (features affect balance)
Seasonal Maintenance
Spring:
- Thorough cleaning after winter
- Inspect for winter damage
- Test all systems
- Adjust for summer operation
Fall:
- Prepare for reduced use
- Clean and winterize if needed
- Cover features if closing pool
- Schedule professional inspection
Popular Water Feature Combinations
The Resort Experience
Features:
- Large rock waterfall with grotto
- Multiple deck jets
- Spa spillover
- Bubblers on tanning ledge
Perfect For:
- Luxury properties
- Entertainment-focused homeowners
- Those wanting dramatic impact
The Tropical Paradise
Features:
- Natural rock waterfall
- Multiple small fountains
- Beach entry with water movement
- Rain curtain
Perfect For:
- Naturalistic designs
- Tropical landscaping
- Florida Keys aesthetic
The Modern Oasis
Features:
- Sheer descent waterfall
- Clean deck jets
- Minimalist fountain
- LED-integrated features
Perfect For:
- Contemporary homes
- Geometric pool designs
- Minimalist preferences
The Family Retreat
Features:
- Gentle waterfall
- Bubblers for kids
- Small fountain
- Interactive deck jets
Perfect For:
- Families with children
- Active households
- Multi-generational use
Why Choose Waasser for Water Features
With 22+ years of experience in South Florida pool design:
✅ Custom Design - Unique features tailored to your vision ✅ Expert Installation - Proper plumbing and structural work ✅ Quality Materials - Premium components for longevity ✅ Complete Integration - Seamless coordination with pool systems ✅ Ongoing Support - Maintenance and repair services ✅ Warranty Protection - Stand behind our work
Getting Started with Water Features
Consultation Phase
- Vision Discussion: Explore your ideas and preferences
- Site Assessment: Evaluate pool and property for feature placement
- Budget Planning: Find options within your investment range
- Style Matching: Ensure features complement your design
Design Phase
- Feature Selection: Choose appropriate water features
- Placement Planning: Determine optimal locations
- System Design: Plan plumbing and electrical requirements
- Integration Strategy: Coordinate with existing pool systems
Installation Phase
- Professional Installation: Expert technicians install all components
- System Testing: Ensure proper operation
- Fine-Tuning: Adjust flows and effects
- Owner Training: Teach you to operate and maintain features
Transform Your Pool Today
Water features can turn an ordinary pool into an extraordinary outdoor retreat. Whether you’re looking for dramatic impact, soothing sounds, or visual elegance, the right features will completely transform your pool experience.
Imagine:
- Relaxing to the soothing sound of a waterfall
- Hosting parties with stunning water features as backdrop
- Creating a resort-like atmosphere in your backyard
- Enhancing your property’s value and appeal
- Enjoying your pool in new and exciting ways
Ready to Add Water Features?
Our team at Waasser has designed and installed stunning water features for hundreds of Florida homeowners. We combine creative vision with technical expertise to create features that exceed expectations.
Schedule your free consultation today. We’ll:
- Assess your current pool and space
- Recommend the best water features for your needs
- Provide detailed pricing and options
- Show you examples of beautiful feature installations
Don’t settle for an ordinary pool. Let us help you create the extraordinary backyard oasis you’ve always dreamed of.
Pro Tip: Start with one primary water feature that makes the biggest impact, then add secondary features later as your budget allows. This approach gives you immediate transformation while allowing for future expansion.
