a fountain is near the pots

10 Best Solar Birdbath Fountains in [current_year] (Review)

If you have a large area in the backyard, you might want to use it to make a beautiful garden. No garden is complete without flowers and animal life. Birds are essential in providing that colorful and relaxing atmosphere in any backyard.

There are two ways to attract birds to your garden: using bird feeders or birdbath fountains. If you choose to install birdbath fountains, you need to circulate the water by installing a pump. Without this, the water becomes stagnant, attracting mosquitos instead of birds. To do so requires you to wire the water pump to an electrical outlet, which makes the process tedious and dangerous.

The solution is to install one of the best solar birdbath fountains in [current_year]. Powered by solar energy, these products will keep the water running and will require no complicated wiring to complete the installation. Let’s take a look at some of the valuable options that you have available.

Carlos

Written by qualified solar engineer Carlos. Last updated:

The Best Solar Birdbath Fountains

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1. Smart Solar 20633R01 Solar Birdbath Fountain

front facing smart solar 20633r01 solar birdbath fountain

Key Features:

  • Olive green finish
  • Glass-fiber reinforced concrete material
  • Low-temperature limit: 4°C

Key Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 17.8 x 17.8 x 24.5 inches
  • Weight: 16.5 pounds
  • Water capacity: 1 gallon (3.79 liters)

Where To Buy

The Smart Solar 20633R01 birdbath fountain is the perfect addition to your garden or patio that has been designed with an olive green color to mix easily with the environment.

The smart solar birdbaths are constructed with a glass-fiber reinforced concrete material that has a durable and sustainable performance. Such construction makes it very easy to clean and install.

This small solar fountain for a birdbath has been designed with a pump system that can operate under direct sunlight or even with partial shades caused by cloudy days. Moreover, among other specs, the fountain has a water capacity of 1 gallon along with a bowl depth of 1.3 inches.

It is important to notice that smart solar birdbath fountains need to be empty and stored in a cool location whenever ambient temperatures fall below 39°F/4°C due to frozen damage risks.

2. Smart Solar 34222RM1 Solar Birdbath Fountain

front facing smart solar 34222rm1 solar birdbath fountain

Key Features:

  • Battery running time: 6 hours
  • Glass fiber reinforced concrete material
  • Weathered stone finish

Key Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 21 x 21 x 32 inches (53.34 x 53.34 x 81.28 cm)
  • Weight: 24 pounds (10.88 kg)
  • Capacity: 2.5 gallons of water (9.45 liters)

Where To Buy

The Smart Solar 34222RM1 birdbath fountains have a weathered stone finish that makes them perfect for outdoor use in country gardens. Furthermore, they are also built with glass fiber reinforced concrete that has been constructed to last many years.

They also integrate solar panels that charge a DC rechargeable battery that can keep the fountain running continuously for 6 hours after 1 or 2 sunny days. Moreover, this birdbath with a solar fountain will keep the water pump running during the day using direct sunlight while charging the battery. It also features an integrated switch that will allow you to turn on/off the pump during the day or night.

This model features bubbler and spray heads to vary water patterns. Finally, the fountain has 21 inches in diameter, has a water capacity of 2.5 gallons and a bowl depth of 4.3 inches as well.

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3. Wishing Well Solar Fountain

front facing wishing well solar fountain

Key Features:

  • Materials: polyresin, stone powder, and sand
  • Wiring needed
  • UL listed

Key Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 15 x 15 x 25 inches (38.1 x 38.1 x 63.5 cm)
  • Weight: 17 pounds (7.7 kg)
  • Two bowl set

Where To Buy

Solar birdbaths should be intended to reflect a forest-stone classic style that reminds of enchanted places. This free-standing model has been designed with such an idea by manufacturing it with polyresin, sand and stone powder to make it durable, reliable and cozy.

Since it is equipped with two sets of bowls, the integrated pump is capable of keeping the water flow constantly moving from the lower bowl to the upper one in a smooth and controlled manner.

Moreover, unlike previous models in this list, the Wishing Well Solar Fountain has been designed with a separate solar panel that is wired with the water pump to keep it running. This feature allows you to place the solar panel in another position or area where the amount of sunlight throughout the day is bigger than the place where the fountain is be located. This translates into better efficiency and pumping more liters per hour.

The downside of the wishing well is that there is wiring needed. Nevertheless, it has received so many positive solar birdbath fountain reviews that it is definitely worth it to consider.

4. Smart Solar Ceramic Solar Bird Bath

front facing smart solar ceramic solar bird bath

Key Features:

  • Material: Ceramic
  • Blue finish
  • No wiring needed

Key Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 25.2 x 20.5 x 21.3 inches (64 x 52.07 x 54.1 cm)
  • Weight: 32 pounds (14.5 kg)
  • Single bowl

Where To Buy

The Smart Solar Ceramic Solar Bird Bath make the perfect addition for an elegant backyard, garden or patio. Designed with a beautiful blue finish color and decorated with ornamental flower designs that add a remarkable touch of sophisticated classic style.

Like other models of solar birdbath fountains that use pumps, the Smart Solar product also integrates a solar panel kit that using sunlight converts solar energy into electricity to keep the water pump running. It is important to notice that unlike the previous wishing well, the solar panel in this model is already integrated with the fountain, therefore, it needs to be installed in a location with wide access to solar radiation.

Moreover, despite it is easy to install as it simply needs to be placed over a flat and even surface, it also needs a couple of hands to carry it to the installation location as it is heavier than other models. Besides, since it is made out of ceramic material, it is important to know that it is more delicate than other models made out of stone or concrete.

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5. Smart Solar Somerset Verdigris

front facing smart solar somerset verdigris

Key Features:

  • Bathing depth is 2 inches
  • Iron stand
  • Water spray head integrated

Key Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 18 x 18 x 30 inches (45.72 x 45.72 x 76.2 cm)
  • Weight: 11 pounds (5 kg)
  • Water capacity: 1-1.5 gallons (3.78- 5.67 liters)

Where To Buy

Smart Solar Somerset Verdigris as a valuable designer of outdoor solar garden fountains, has developed this traditional and strong birdbath fountain manufactured with an iron stand to make it last and make it suitable for any landscaping scenario.

Like other models in this list, the fountain uses a solar panel that is integrated into the base of the bowl and that powers a brushless motor that is connected to a solar powered water pump that makes water flow. Moving water constantly is essential to avoid the presence or growth of mosquitoes or bacteria in stagnant water. Moreover, this model uses a water spray head that makes birds get attracted to the sound of flowing water and that makes these solar fountains more beautiful at sight.

The iron fountain base has a free-standing construction that makes it safe and easy to install. Among other factors, the bathing depth is approximately 2 inches which allows it to hold between 1 and 1.5 gallons of water.

6. Smart Solar 20622R01

front facing smart solar 20622r01

Key Features:

  • Concrete construction
  • Stone finish
  • Two nozzle heads: umbrella or bubbling

Key Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 21 x 21 x 29 inches (53.34 x 53.34 x 73.66 cm)
  • Weight: 20 pounds (9.07 kg)
  • Water capacity: 1 gallon (3.78 liters)

Where To Buy

The Smart Solar 20622R01 model has been designed with a glass-fiber reinforced concrete construction that provides a solid structure — resistant to damages, erosion, and multiple weather conditions. Moreover, this concrete construction has a stone finish that mixes perfectly with any garden, deck, patio or balcony, and that includes two turtles located on the edge of the bowl that add a beautiful touch to this fountain.

The water fountain can operate using a solar panel that converts sunlight into electricity for the pump system which makes water flow through the fountain. Moreover, the water fountain contains two nozzle heads that allow you to switch the operation and the view of the fountain between an umbrella spray and a bubbling head feature.

Among other interesting facts of this solar water fountain, the bowl has a 1.3-inch depth along with a water capacity of 1 gallon. Finally, regarding maintenance routines, the stone fountain requires just to simply drain the water to wipe and rinse it down, to refill it with water.

7. Smart Solar Blue Ceramic Fountain

front facing smart solar blue ceramic fountain

Key Features:

  • Cascade design
  • Blue ceramic construction
  • Separated solar panel

Key Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 17.5 x 17.5 x 10.2 inches
  • Weight: 25 pounds (11.3 kg)
  • 10 ft. cable for solar power

Where To Buy

The Smart Solar Blue Ceramic Fountain is another good product from the brand that can be placed on any garden or patio to add a remarkable nature touch.

Unlike previous birdbaths on this list, this model has a cascade feature that consists of a 5-piece set of different design bowls through which water flows until the last and largest recipient. This last recipient is connected to a small low-voltage pump that pushes water back to the top (urn) through a hose. The water then starts to gently fall through 3 jugs in order to begin the cycle again.

The water pump is powered by a solar panel that is separated from the rest of the kit and that can be installed on any position or tilt angle. This allows the installer to optimize solar power harvesting as the solar cells can be placed in an area where the amount of sunlight is higher throughout the day, even though the fountain is placed in another position or location. Keep in mind that the solar panel will have a 3m (10ft.) cable which is enough range to make a proper setup.

8. TBI Pro Terra Cotta Mosaic Design Solar Birdbath

front facing tbi pro terra cotta mosaic design solar birdbath

Key Features:

  • Terra cotta fountain bowls
  • 5-piece set
  • Cascade design

Key Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 15 x 15 x 20.5 inches
  • Weight: 24 lbs. (10.8 kg)
  • 15-foot cord for solar panel

Where To Buy

Following a similar concept to the blue ceramic fountain, the TBI Pro Terra Cotta Mosaic Design Solar Birdbath is another excellent choice to be added to any yard or garden.

The TBI product consists of a 5-piece set cascade design under which water continuously flows from a top urn which gently trickles water into three small jugs to eventually end up in a large bowl that discreetly contains a pump that sends water back to the initial and highest point of the fountain through a hose. As the water flows from the urn into the jugs it increases speed, and by the time it gets to the last bowl it is much faster than what it was when it left the urn due to potential energy. The largest bowl can be decorated with stones, flowers or other ornaments.

Moreover, the water pump is powered by a separated solar panel which can be wall or stand mounted by using the included hardware. The panel and the pump are connected through a 15-foot cord that allows you to place the fountain in one spot and the module in another one. This provides a mobility range as not always the most aesthetical position for the fountain is the best for solar power harvesting.

9. Smart Solar 20221R01

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Key Features:

  • Freezing damage below 39°F / 4°C
  • Glass handy painted bowl
  • Two fountain heads: spray and bubbler

Key Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 20 x 20 x 24 inches
  • Weight: 12 pounds (5.4 kg)
  • Water capacity: 1.5 gallons

Where To Buy

Last but not least, Smart Solar 20221R01 brings this colorful fountain design made out of a two-piece set: base and bowl. The bowl is made out of a delicate glass material that has been painted at hand and that has the drawing of a peacock. On the other hand, the base is made out of pure steel and covered with a black powder-coated finish that provides safety and durability.

Installation of these birdbaths is quite simple as all that needs to be done is to place the base on flat terrain and then put the glass bowl on top of it. Among other things, the product has two fountain heads: a 360-degree spray and a bubbler. Besides, the water fountain is able to hold a capacity of 1.5 gallons.

Regarding its functionality, the fountain is solar power based through an integrated photovoltaic cell that is located on the bottom of the bowl and that can work underwater. As light passes through water and reaches the cell, it is able to power a low voltage water pump with filter integration that allows keeping the water circulation for oxygen.

10. Vivohome Polyresin Antique Solar Birdbath Fountain

front facing vivohome polyresin antique solar birdbath fountain

Key Features:

  • Polyresin material
  • Floating solar powered pump
  • 5 exchangeable fountain heads

Key Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 20.6 x 20.3 x 4.6 inches (52.32 x 51.56 x 11.68cm)
  • Weight: 6 lbs. (2.72 kg)
  • Lifetime operation: 8000 hours

Where To Buy

Vivohome Polyresin Antique has developed a weather-resistant polyresin to be the core of its beautiful birdbath fountains made with heavy-duty construction. Designed with an antique green pattern that makes a gorgeous addition to any backyard or patio and that is easy to clean and also easy to install.

The solar powered birdbath kit consists of two main combo sets: 1 garden birdbath and 1 pump. The first combo consists of 4 different pieces that can be easily joined together. Meanwhile, the pump kit has a star shape and consists of 5 pieces that after assembled they can float on the water. The kit also features multiple fountain heads that can be easily exchanged and that provide different water patterns to make it more attractive at sight.

One of the interesting facts of this floating solar fountain for a birdbath is that water circulation for oxygen is favored with this model as the water that is pumped is located on the surface. Moreover, the water pump is expected to have over 8000 hours of lifetime operation.

5 Things to Think of Before Choosing A Solar Birdbath Fountain

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Location and Dimensions

Before you install a solar water fountain, the first thing that you need to know is that you need to check the available space that you have for it. It is useful to have two or three possible arrangements (depending on the size of your garden) that allow you to evaluate what is the best option for you.

In any case, you must be fully aware of the dimensions available in your garden for the fountain under each scenario and compare them with the size of the models available to verify that it fits properly in width, length, and height.

Solar Panel Connection

The next factor to consider is the schematic that the solar panel connection must follow. In other words, whether the solar cell is already integrated into the base of the bowl or if the solar panel is separated from the fountain itself with a cable.

Those solar fountains that have the photovoltaic cell located on the bottom of the bowl must be patented to work underwater conditions as they will permanently generate electricity underwater. These have an aesthetic advantage, however, they are highly dependent on the location where the fountain will be installed for aesthetically purposes which could be located under a tree, or close to another object that causes shades on the solar cell.

This eventually reduces the performance of the water pumps and could lead to a lower speed or even stagnant water. Moreover, as the light needs to pass through the water to reach the solar cell, part of the light beam is reflected by the water which means lower conversion efficiency. In other words, to ensure the proper function of the fountain, you must place it in a location that is constantly receiving sunlight, no matter if it looks better aesthetically in another place.

Meanwhile, the solar panel that is separated by a cable does not have such a problem. You can place the fountain wherever you like and find the best spot to install the solar panel.

Head Types and Bowl Configuration

Solar fountains will have different head types available, mainly between bubbles, spray and others that will provide different water features. Moreover, you may also find single or two-tiered fountain bowls and even some like the TBI Terra Cotta or the Smart Solar Blue Ceramic models that can offer up to a 5 piece set. Choosing different combinations among them is part of the decision.

Weight and Materials

The weight and the material of construction is another element to consider. A lightweight fountain is preferable for installation purposes, but it is also likely to be more fragile. Regarding the material, it is preferable if the base of the fountain is solid and strong like steel, iron or concrete. Other materials such as ceramic, terra cotta or glass can also be considered but they must be installed carefully and in an area free of children.

Aesthetics

Finally, the last factor to consider is the beauty of the fountain, the style and how well it mixes up with your garden. Choosing a fountain in which color is low or too dark into a garden that misses life is not a good investment. Fountains must be installed to add life and beauty into your garden or to contrast as well. If your garden is already full of flowers and led lights, then it misses no color and a serious or elegant tone could be a good addition for it. Getting assessed by a designer in that aspect might be a good idea.

What are the Different Types of Solar Birdbath Fountains?

the green fountain is on the ground

Solar birdbaths can be classified according to the fountain solar – pump system as follows:

Floating fountain pumps

The solar panel and the pump come as a single device that can be placed on top of the water to operate. Water circulation for oxygen and efficiency is improved when compared to the fixed solar panel pump kit. Example: Vivohome.

Fixed solar panel pump kit fountain

The solar panel is located at the bottom of the bowl and works permanently underwater. It’s simple to install, but it’s also highly dependent on the fountain location. Example: Smart Solar 20633R01.

Separated solar panel pump fountain

This solar panel can be installed in position different from the fountain location. The pump is integrated and fixed inside the fountain. Efficiency is increased, the power source and the fountain are independent of each other, no wiring is required. Example: Wishing well fountain.

Do Solar Fountains Require Much Maintenance?

From a maintenance perspective, birdbaths are very simple to handle. They only require you to drain the water and wipe it down. It is useful to have the equipment for cleaning the solar panel on hand because the photovoltaic cell also needs to be clean to work properly. You must continue with the cleaning process of the fountain by rinsing it and filling it with new water. Performing this process once a week during spring or summer and once every two weeks during autumn is more than enough. During winter it is safer to store it.

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