Why Water Features & Fountains Need Filtration Systems: Screen Filters & Media Filters Explained
- Everfilt® Admin
- Oct 20
- 3 min read
Water features and fountains are more than just decorative elements, they bring tranquility, elegance, and natural beauty to homes, gardens, and commercial spaces. However, maintaining that crystal-clear flow requires more than just circulating water. Behind the scenes, water filtration systems play a crucial role in keeping the water clean, clear, and free from contaminants.
We’ll explore why water features use water filtration systems, focusing on screen filters and media filters, and how they ensure smooth, long-lasting operation.
The Importance of Water Filtration in Fountains & Water Features
Whether it’s a small backyard fountain or a large commercial water wall, every water feature continuously recirculates water. Without filtration, that water quickly becomes a breeding ground for algae, debris, and bacteria.
Here’s why water filtration is essential:
Prevents Clogging: Filters keep pumps and nozzles free from dirt & sediment.
Maintains Water Clarity: Removes suspended solids that cause cloudiness.
Reduces Maintenance: Keeps the system cleaner, reducing manual cleaning.
Improves Aesthetics: Clear water enhances the overall appearance & serenity.
Prolongs Equipment Life: Prevents premature wear & tear on pumps & plumbing.
Simply put, filtration is the heart of any water feature’s circulatory system, keeping it healthy, efficient, and visually appealing.
Understanding Screen Filters
What Are Screen Filters?
Screen filters are mechanical filtration devices designed to remove larger debris such as leaves, twigs, insects, and coarse particles from the water. They typically use a fine mesh or perforated screen that traps solid contaminants while allowing clean water to pass through.
How Screen Filters Work
As water flows through the screen, physical particles are caught and held on the filter’s surface. Many modern screen filters feature automatic backwashing or self-cleaning systems, reducing the need for manual maintenance.
Benefits of Screen Filters in Water Features
Removes large particles before they reach pumps or nozzles
Prevents clogging & reduces downtime
Easy to clean & maintain
Often serves as the first line of defense in a multi-stage filtration system
Screen filters are ideal for pre-filtration, protecting downstream equipment and extending the life of more advanced filters.
Understanding Media Filters
What Are Media Filters?
Media filters use layers of granular materials such as sand, gravel, or specialized filter media to trap smaller particles that screen filters might miss. They’re highly effective for fine filtration in fountains and water features that demand pristine water clarity.
How Media Filters Work
As water passes through the media bed, tiny suspended solids get trapped between the granules. Over time, the trapped particles are removed through backwashing, restoring the filter’s performance.
Benefits of Media Filters in Water Features
Removes fine particles, silt, & organic matter
Improves water clarity & transparency
Reduces algae growth by removing nutrients from the water
Ideal for decorative & high-visibility fountains
Media filters ensure that your fountain not only functions smoothly but also looks stunning, with clear water that enhances its visual appeal.
The Perfect Partnership: Screen Filters + Media Filters
For the best performance, many water feature systems use both screen filters and media filters in sequence:
Screen filter (pre-filtration): Captures large debris.
Media filter (secondary filtration): Removes fine particles & organic matter.
This two-stage filtration approach ensures comprehensive water cleanliness, minimizing maintenance while maximizing system longevity and aesthetics.
Choosing the Right Filtration System for Your Water Feature
When selecting a filtration system, consider the following factors:
Size & Flow Rate of the water feature
Water Quality (source water condition, debris load, etc.)
Maintenance Requirements
Aesthetic Goals, clear vs. natural pond look
Energy Efficiency & Automation Options
Consulting with a water feature professional can help you design a system that balances performance, cost, and ease of upkeep.
Water filtration isn’t just a maintenance step, it’s an essential part of every fountain’s design and performance. Using systems like screen filters and media filters ensures that your water feature stays clean, clear, and captivating all year long. With the right filtration setup, you’ll enjoy the beauty and serenity of flowing water without the hassle of frequent cleanings or equipment breakdowns.
