Designing and looking after a fountain reservoir



Most products that have some sort of running water will require a fountain reservoir, which is usually a sort of catchment for spilled water. These sorts of reservoirs are found on water features, such as those found in the backyard or in parks, or even on items such as the office water cooler. In fact, those who write with fountain pens will no doubt have come across a special ink reservoir designed to catch any spills or drips. It may seem like a silly idea, but a fountain reservoir can be key to keeping your area-whether it be your desk, your backyard, or your office floor-tip top and tidy.



When designing or selecting a water or ink reservoir, one of the first things you should consider is its capacity. Some areas may be prone to large amounts of spillage, and as a result, you might like to consider purchasing a reservoir that is capable of handling large amounts of water. For example, if you have an outdoor pond that contains a water feature, a very deep reservoir might be a good idea just in case the water filter gets blocked or breaks. This can stop water from spilling out of the reservoir and on to your paving or lawn. On the other hand, if the area is unlikely to become flooded or blocked for any reason, a shallow reservoir might do. For example, an office water fountain will likely not need an especially deep water reservoir, as it is unlikely that there will be huge amounts of spillage or dripping water occurring.

The material out of which your reservoir is made is also important. An ink reservoir, for example, should be made from a material that either does not easily stain, or that is dark and so discourages stains from showing up. You want to make sure that the material is easy to wash, and that therefore it is either easy to remove or is easy to access. Bear in mind that a reservoir will be constantly damp from drips and spills, and that dampness and wetness can encourage the growth of undesirables. For example, stagnant water in an outdoor pond may encourage the growth of mosquitoes and algae. On the other hand, pools of water in an office water cooler may encourage the growth of mold, which can lead to staff discomfort from the poor smells and the growth of mold spores. Choosing an appropriate fountain reservoir can help to ensure that you don't have to deal with these issues.