Installation Guide
The pictures used to illustrate the installation are of the Altum AquaBox, but the procedures are the same for all Blue Thumb basins.
STEP 1: Prepare the Area
Clear and level the area based on the size of the basin type, plus an additional 1-2 inches in width and length.
Diagram Description: Shows a level area with a basin and tools.
STEP 2: Dig the Hole
Dig the hole to the required size and depth of the basin. Ensure the basin will sit approximately 1 inch below grade once installation is complete.
Diagram Description: Shows digging a hole with a shovel and measuring depth.
STEP 3: Level the Base
Level the bottom of the hole with sand or small gravel and tamp it down to ensure no settling occurs after installation.
Diagram Description: Shows adding sand/gravel and tamping the bottom of the hole.
STEP 4: Set the Basin
Set the basin into the hole and verify that the top of the basin is level and approximately 1 inch below grade.
If you are using a liner bib, ensure the surrounding area gently slopes toward the basin to direct water back into it.
Diagram Description: Shows placing the basin in the hole and checking for level.
STEP 5: Backfill the Void
Backfill the void between the basin and the soil with a self-compacting material such as sand or pea gravel. If using excavated soil, compact it regularly with a tamper.
If your basin included a cardboard cover, leave it in place while backfilling to prevent soil from falling into the basin.
Diagram Description: Shows backfilling around the basin with soil and compacting it.
STEP 6: Prepare for Vase Installation
Before installing the vase, check that the inside of the basin is clean. Remove any dirt that has entered the basin using a wet/dry vacuum.
Add the pump to the basin and attach the kink-free hose to the pump using the quick-disconnect. Then, run the other end of the kink-free hose up through the basin to attach to the vase.
Diagram Description: Shows cleaning the basin, attaching the pump and hose.
STEP 7: Attach Hose to Vase
Lay the vase on its side and attach the hose to the vase using the quick-disconnect connector. Center the vase on the basin as much as possible to prevent water from blowing out on windy days. Verify that the vase is level and properly standing on the grate.
Diagram Description: Shows attaching the hose to the vase and positioning it.
STEP 8: Ensure Vase is Level
Use the provided plastic shims to ensure the vase is level. The vase should never stand uneven or unstable.
Diagram Description: Shows using shims to level the vase.
STEP 9: Fill and Test Fountain
Fill the basin with clean water and test the fountain by plugging the pump power cord into a nearby electrical GFCI outlet. Water will start flowing from the fountain. Adjust the flow of water as needed for the desired effect.
For "open-top" style vases, adjust flow by turning the red handle on the ball valve located on the standpipe inside the vase.
For "closed-top" vases, adjust flow by turning the red handle on the ball valve located inside the basin on the pump's discharge.
Diagram Description: Shows filling the basin and adjusting water flow.
STEP 10: Finish the Look
Once the basin is properly filled and the vase is running at the desired effect, cover the top of the basin using Blue Thumb Polished Pebbles to complete the look.
For additional questions, visit bluethumbponds.com or call 888-619-3474.
Diagram Description: Shows the finished fountain with pebbles.
Maintenance and Care
Regular Maintenance
Weekly: Add water to the basin as necessary. The pump must remain submerged at all times and should not be allowed to run dry. Add water using a garden hose. If water levels drop frequently, reduce the pump flow by adjusting the ball valve or add a splash apron around the basin perimeter to help retain water.
Routine Water Treatment
Use Blue Thumb water treatments weekly at first, then bi-monthly or monthly depending on product selection, season, and fountain conditions.
- Fountain Clear: Helps prevent stains, mineral deposits, & organic contaminants from forming in the basins and on the fountain.
- Fountain Lime Buster: Safely removes limescale and calcium deposits on the fountain. Prolongs the life of the pump by removing limescale build-up in and around the pump.
- AquaFix Liquid: Use weekly to prevent the build-up of algae on the fountain.
- Muck Buster: Use to remove sludge in the basin that leads to clogging and decreased pump flow.
- AquaFix Dry: Use to spot treat rocks showing signs of hairy algae.
Seasonal Cleaning
Every spring and fall, drain the basin and replace with fresh water. Vacuum the basin if excess debris may clog the pump. If your fountain has an anti-splash mat, remove any leaves and debris from it and rinse thoroughly.
Winterizing Fountain
The most important step is removing and storing your pump during winter. Disassemble and clean the pump, place it in a bucket of water, and store it in an area that will not freeze to keep seals wet and prevent the impeller from sticking.
Do not drain the basin for winter; keeping it filled with water helps avoid soil heaving during freezing. In spring, drain and replace the water.
Move vases indoors to prevent cold weather damage. DO NOT allow water to sit inside a ceramic vase fountain and freeze, as this can cause cracking. Winter damage is not covered under warranty.
If a fountain is too heavy to move, cover it with a Fountain Cover or tarp that repels water and prevents build-up.
Controlling Water Loss & Low Water Issues
Automatic Water Fill Kit - #ABDAUTO: For use with all Blue Thumb Fountain Basins.
Low Water Shut-Off: This feature turns the pump off when water drops below the sensor attached to the pump, preventing overheating and permanent damage.
*Keep in mind that every fountain is unique and experiences different site conditions and water quality changes. Please contact us directly to discuss your specific requirements or visit our website for more information regarding the proper care of your fountain at bluethumbponds.com.
Limited Warranty Information
All Blue Thumb basins are covered under warranty against material and workmanship defects for a period of 5 years from the date of purchase. The warranty is limited and void if damage results from:
- Use of the basin for anything other than its intended use as a fountain.
- Improper installation of components.
- Alteration of any kit component.
- Exposure to extreme heat/freezing conditions outside the range of 0°F to 120°F (-15°C to 45°C).
- Exceeding the specified maximum load capacity or point load capacity of the basin.
- Damage from extreme weather conditions (hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, etc.).
- Purposeful destruction or vandalism.
Blue Thumb mag-drive pumps are covered under a limited warranty for 5 years. DO NOT cut the pump cord, as this will void the warranty. Refer to the instruction manual for warranty details.
Ceramic vases are covered under a warranty against material and workmanship defects for 1 year from the date of purchase. Damage caused by excess weather or winter conditions is not covered.
The vases featured in our collection are naturally rustic, intentionally glazed unevenly, and contain variations in color and texture. No two pieces are alike, but all share an inherent beauty.
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