There is a wide range of pumps on the market, but they all fall into one of three categories: submersible, external or dual purpose. You must decide which type of pump best suits your needs - easier if you visit suppliers with display ponds, so you can find out how your favourite effect has been achieved.

Technical terms abound and pump head is one that might puzzle you. It refers to the lift of water to a certain height (9m/30ft is the maximum possible) achieved by the pump. The figure in feet or metres is the vertical distance between the water's surface and the top of the fountain or waterfall.