Water That Reacts
Jets that dance as you walk past, fountains that follow a game or splash pads that respond to touch are a great way to draw families into a public space. They also combine water, electricity and crowds, so the planning has to be careful.
How They Work
Typically a sensor detects people and a controller switches pumps and valves. Across our installations we think about these parts.
- Presence sensing — thermal or time-of-flight sensors that cope with splashes
- Valves and pumps — switching jets on and off in patterns
- Control logic — timelines or reactions to movement
- Lighting — waterproof LED fittings for evening displays
- Drainage and filtration — keeping water clean and the area safe
Planning a water feature? We offer free consultations on interactive public features... Let's discuss your site →
Safety and Hygiene
Electrical equipment near water needs specialist design, with low-voltage supplies, residual current protection and correctly rated enclosures. Surfaces must stay non-slip, and water quality needs managing so it stays safe for people who get wet. Take specialist advice on both, as rules are strict.
Children play differently from adults, so consider sudden jets, depth and supervision.
Plan for Weather
Seasonal shut-down, frost protection and maintenance access all affect the design. Councils and agencies can discuss options with us through our partnership service before a design is fixed.
