Fixington

Outdoor Drinking Fountains

Trade: Plumber

⭐ Introduction

Outdoor drinking fountains are plumbing fixtures installed in gardens, patios, or other external spaces to provide clean, fresh drinking water. They are especially useful if you enjoy spending time outdoors, have children playing outside or want to offer guests a convenient water source.

You may need an outdoor drinking fountain when you’re redesigning your garden, adding practical features to your home exterior, or replacing an older or faulty unit. They’re popular for making outdoor gatherings more comfortable and encouraging hydration, particularly during warm weather.

🔧 What the job involves

Installing an outdoor drinking fountain involves connecting a suitable water supply line to the fountain unit, securely mounting the fountain on a wall or on the ground, and ensuring it drains correctly to prevent standing water or damage.

The plumber will:

  • Choose the right location with access to a cold water supply, ideally close to your main water system.
  • Install any necessary tap valves or frost-proof fittings to protect the system in winter.
  • Fit the fountain unit, which may include controls like a push button or a lever for water flow.
  • Connect the drainage, usually directing away from house foundations and paved areas to prevent water pooling.
  • Check water pressure and flow rate for comfortable and safe use.
  • Test the system to confirm it delivers clean water hygienically.

Outdoor drinking fountains are usually supplied from mains cold water and should include proper backflow prevention—this stops any water from the fountain contaminating your potable water system.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry
    Contact a reputable plumber experienced in outdoor plumbing. Explain your needs, the intended location, and any preferences for styles or materials.

  2. Site survey and quote
    The plumber visits to check access, existing plumbing, water supply quality, drainage options, and discuss any technical or aesthetic choices. They then provide a written quote including labour, parts, and any additional work.

  3. Agree schedule and arrangements
    Confirm the installation date, any preparations you need to make (such as clearing the area), and clarify access permissions.

  4. Installation day
    The plumber arrives, sets up equipment, isolates water supply if needed, installs the fountain and drainage, tests the system, and cleans the work area.

  5. Final check and advice
    The plumber shows you how to use the fountain, discusses maintenance, and provides any paperwork or guarantees.

  6. Aftercare
    You monitor the fountain for leaks or performance issues, keeping records of servicing if applicable.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Typically includes site visit for survey and installation work, usually charged per hour or as a fixed price.
  • Fountain unit: Costs vary depending on style, materials (stainless steel, stone effect, plastic), and features (filtering, bottle fillers).
  • Plumbing materials: Pipes, valves, fittings, backflow preventers, insulation for frost protection.
  • Drainage work: Includes pipework to divert waste water and possible groundworks if drainage repairs or new soakaways are needed.
  • Disposal: Removal of any old fixtures or spoil from digging.
  • Certification: Although outdoor drinking fountains are generally simple fittings, ensure any backflow prevention or water system alterations comply with local plumbing regulations and Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999.

Example itemisation:

  • Labour (4 hours) – £160
  • Fountain unit – £180
  • Plumbing materials – £50
  • Drainage pipework – £40
  • Waste disposal – £20
  • Total (excl. VAT) – £450

📊 What affects the price

  • Access to plumbing (easy wall access vs. digging to reach supply).
  • Complexity of connections (simple supply tap vs. integrating filters or bottle fillers).
  • Need for frost-proof systems or extra insulation.
  • Drainage requirements and potential groundworks.
  • Compliance with water regulations and quality certification.
  • Distance from water supply or need for specialist equipment.
  • Urgency or weekend work requests.
  • Location within the UK — urban areas or parts with higher labour costs may be pricier.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple replacement or new install with good access: 2–4 hours.
  • Installation requiring groundworks or complicated pipe reroutes: up to 1 full day.
  • Complex systems with filtration or integrated bottle filling: 1–2 days.

The exact time depends on the site conditions and whether the plumber needs to obtain extra supplies or permissions during the job.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

While installing a basic garden tap may be within the DIY ability of an experienced homeowner, fitting an outdoor drinking fountain usually requires plumbing skills. This is because:

  • Water supply connections must meet the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations to avoid contamination risks.
  • Installing backflow prevention devices is critical and often not straightforward.
  • Safe drainage design and frost-proofing can be complex.
  • Incorrect installation could lead to leaks, water damage, or health issues.

For these reasons, hiring a qualified plumber is highly recommended when installing an outdoor drinking fountain to ensure it is safe, legal, and durable.

💰 Typical UK price range

The estimated cost for installing a basic outdoor drinking fountain typically ranges between £350 and £750, excluding VAT. This includes labour and materials but can increase depending on complexity or specific product choices.

Always get a written quotation with VAT clearly stated before work begins.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Confirm the water supply is suitable and mains pressure is adequate.
  • Choose a durable fountain material suited to your climate and garden style.
  • Check if local water companies or councils have any specific rules or permissions.
  • Consider frost protection measures for winter to avoid burst pipes.
  • Keep all receipts, guarantees, and any certification for the work.
  • Arrange regular servicing or cleaning if your fountain includes filters or sensors.
  • Clear the installation site beforehand, moving pots or furniture.
  • Discuss with your plumber about water treatment or filtration if your supply is hard or has taste issues.

By preparing carefully and using a reliable professional, your outdoor drinking fountain will be a safe and refreshing addition to your home for years to come.