Introduction
Want to take your backyard pool from basic to breathtaking? Adding a water feature is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make. In this guide, you’ll learn how to add a water feature to your pool, from design options to installation tips. Whether you’re dreaming of a tranquil waterfall or a fun deck jet, you’ll discover how to do it right.
Why Adding a Water Feature Matters for Your Pool
A water feature does more than just look great—it adds value and function to your swimming experience. Whether you want a relaxing ambiance, better water circulation, or a splash of excitement for the kids, there’s a style to fit every goal and budget.
Benefits include:
- Boosting the visual appeal of your pool area
- Creating soothing sounds for a relaxing atmosphere
- Improving water circulation and oxygenation
- Increasing your home’s resale value
- Offering interactive fun for kids and guests
Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a Water Feature
Step 1: Choose the Type of Water Feature
There are many options to suit your pool style and space:
- Sheer Descent Waterfalls – Elegant sheets of water falling from a wall or structure
- Deck Jets & Laminar Jets – Arcing streams of water shooting from the deck into the pool
- Bubblers & Gushers – Vertical water streams from shallow areas (perfect for sun shelves)
- Rock Waterfalls – Natural-looking cascades for a tropical or lagoon-style pool
- Scuppers & Spillways – Water flowing from raised walls or spa edges into the pool
- Fountains & Sprayers – Freestanding or integrated spray features
Tip: Think about function and style. Do you want sound, visual impact, or play? Choose accordingly.
Step 2: Determine Power and Plumbing Needs
Some water features can be added without major renovations, while others require extra plumbing or electrical work.
- Deck jets and bubblers may need separate piping and a booster pump.
- LED lighting in water features requires safe, waterproof wiring.
- Some features can tap into your existing return lines, while others need a dedicated line.
Pool Owner Tip: Consider future upgrades when planning plumbing—installing extra lines now may save you from re-digging later.
Step 3: Choose DIY vs. Professional Installation
Simple features like floating fountains or solar sprayers are great for DIY projects. More complex features (e.g., waterfalls, wall-mounted scuppers) may require a pool contractor.
DIY-friendly options:
- Plug-and-play fountains
- Solar-powered floating sprayers
- Pre-assembled deck jets for existing return lines
Professional options:
- Custom rock waterfalls
- Integrated bubblers and LED-lit jets
- Wall-mounted spillways and sheer descents
Caution: Never attempt electrical work near water without a licensed professional.
Step 4: Prepare the Installation Area
Clear the area and mark where the feature will be installed.
- Measure carefully and mock up the design with temporary props or tape.
- For wall features, check the strength and angle of the wall for proper flow.
- For in-deck features, ensure you have the right space and access beneath.
Bonus Hack: Use a garden hose to simulate how water will fall or spray before committing.
Step 5: Install Plumbing and Wiring (if needed)
For features that tie into your pool’s circulation:
- Install PVC piping to connect the water feature to your return line or a dedicated pump.
- Add a valve to control flow rate.
- If lighting is involved, run conduit and install a low-voltage transformer for safety.
Tip: Use unions and access points so future repairs or changes are easy.
Step 6: Mount or Position the Water Feature
Once the infrastructure is in place:
- Mount wall features using anchors or brackets.
- Place rock waterfalls securely on level footing—use mortar or sealant if stacking stones.
- Install deck jets flush with the deck surface.
- Position fountains according to water height and spray pattern.
Tip: Test water pressure during this step to make sure the stream hits the pool properly.
Step 7: Test and Adjust Flow
Turn on the pump and adjust valves to achieve the desired effect.
- For a gentle sheet from a sheer descent, the flow should be even and uninterrupted.
- For deck jets, adjust the nozzle direction and flow rate.
- For bubblers, test how high the water shoots up—usually 6 to 12 inches is ideal.
Pool Owner Tip: If using a shared pump, avoid reducing flow to the pool return jets too much—balance both systems.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Choosing the Wrong Feature for Pool Size
A large waterfall may overwhelm a small pool, while tiny jets may not impress in a large space. Match size to scale.
2. Ignoring Plumbing Capacity
Too many features on one pump can reduce overall water circulation. Consult your pool specs before adding features.
3. Forgetting About Maintenance
Some features collect debris or algae. Choose low-maintenance designs or add them to your regular cleaning routine.
4. Not Checking Local Codes
Some water features (especially with lighting or pumps) require electrical permits or inspections. Check first.
5. Poor Flow Control
No flow valve? You might not be able to adjust the spray height, leading to splash loss or annoying noise.
Extra Tips & Pool Hacks
1. Add Color-Changing LED Lights
Pair your feature with LED lighting to create a dramatic nighttime effect. Some systems can sync with your pool lights.
2. Use a Timer or Remote System
Connect water features to automation panels or Wi-Fi timers so you can control them with a tap.
3. Combine Features for Greater Impact
Try a bubbler and a deck jet together for a layered water display—or pair a sheer descent with colored lights for a spa-like vibe.
Bonus Link:
Considering automation for your backyard setup? [Check out our guide on how to upgrade old pool equipment.]
Conclusion
Adding a water feature to your pool is a fun and functional upgrade that transforms your outdoor space into a resort-style retreat. Whether you go bold with a waterfall or subtle with a fountain, the result is enhanced beauty, sound, and enjoyment. Plan it right, install it properly, and enjoy the endless splash of luxury.
Final Tip: Start small if you’re unsure—many water features can be added later as your vision (and budget) grows.