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Yes, it is possible to make a fountain without a pump, though it may seem less intuitive and will require a bit more effort to use. In lieu of an electric pump, there are a few options including hand-cranked pumps or sprinkler systems that can work to provide water for a fountain.

How many fish can call your pond home depends on the volume of the pond and the fish size. Your pond's filtration system also influences the number of fish that will thrive in a pond. A general rule of thumb is to have 1 inch of fish for every square foot in a pond that's 2 feet deep. Another rule of thumb you can follow is to have one koi fish for every 200 gallons of water or two goldfish for every 200 gallons.

Every one to three months, you should perform regular fountain maintenance, including draining, cleaning, and rinsing the components of your fountain basin and the pump and tubing to prevent algae and other buildup. Fountain maintenance also includes keeping the appropriate water level and removing debris like leaves, insects, and twigs from the water to avoid clogging the pump. You can also hire a professional landscaper to clean your fountain for around $50 to $150 per month on average.

Placing your water feature in direct sun can speed up evaporation, leading to pump damage and algae growth. Shade or partial shade serves as the ideal location for most water features—just watch out for tree and plant debris that may fall in and clog the pump.