Check with local building codes and appropriate utility companies before digging.

Excavate the reservoir about 18” deep. Allow enough space outside the bubbler(s) to contain any splash, taking into account any predominant wind direction that may cause additional splash.

When using pondliner, we suggest first laying underlayment fabric as a protective barrier between the bare ground and the liner. Other ideas may include sand or old carpet (watch for staples).

Lay out your liner in the hole and push the liner into every space possible. Any large sections of leftover liner, such as corners, may be cut off and added to the center to act as an additional protective layer on the inside. However don’t do a final cutting yet until the feature is completely full of water and finished.

It’s a good idea to add another layer of fabric on the inside of the feature as additional protection for the liner.

The most effective way to build the reservoir is to build two levels like in the picture, as it will aid in setting the bubblers. There are many ways to set your bubbler and the more space you have the better but if working in a tight space you may need to get creative. Just be sure to add additional protective layers of liner under the blocks or supports that you are using.

We strongly recommend running the flex hose through the bubbler prior to setting it.

Finish plumbing the system and connect the pump. Be sure to run the flex hose all the way to the top of the rock. That way, sealing the rock won’t be necessary. Don’t forget to include ball valves (must have one on each bubbler if multiple bubblers) which help control the flow of the water and a union is a good idea if the pump ever needs to be disconnected for maintenance.

Have PVC glue handy to connect the fittings. You should consider boxing in your pump so it’s easier to access it in the future if necessary. We offer pump vaults, or an old bucket will work too. In other words some type of box or cylinder with an open top and a lid so you only have to move a small quantity of river rock rather than digging out a lot of rock if you need to access the pump later for maintenance.

Finish the bubbler by fine-tuning the ball valves and shimming the rocks with the water running to attain desired flow and direction. If dry-creek look is desired fill entire area with river rock. It acts as a good natural filter giving you a low maintenance water feature. If more sound is desired from splashing, use less river rock, enough only to cover the pump, valves, fitting, etc.

Consider adding water plants or small cobble rock for dressing it up a bit more, and finally enjoy your water feature!