Leasing vs. Owning a Pond Fountain: Which Option Fits Your Community?

Pond fountains do more than beautify lakes and stormwater pond. They improve water quality, increase aeration, and provide a focal point that brings communities together. But when it comes to acquiring a fountain, HOAs, municipalities, and commercial property managers face a key decision: leasing or owning. Understanding the differences can help you make a choice that fits your budget, maintenance capacity, and long-term pond management goals. 

Benefits of Owning a Pond Fountain 
Owning a fountain provides a sense of permanence and control. Some advantages include: 

• Long-term investment: Once purchased, the fountain is an asset that can last many years with proper maintenance. 

• Full control over operation: Communities can set schedules, choose lighting options, and customize aesthetics. 

• Potential cost savings over time: Avoiding monthly leasing fees can reduce expenses in the long term, especially if maintenance needs are predictable. 

However, ownership also comes with responsibilities: routine maintenance, off-season storage, repairs, and the cost of replacement parts. These obligations require staff expertise, storage space, and a budget for unexpected issues. 

Advantages of Leasing a Pond Fountain 
Leasing is increasingly popular among communities looking for a low-risk, hassle-free solution. Jones Lake Management's Fountain Leasing Program offers: 

• Full installation: Includes the fountain, light set (if applicable), power cords, anchors, mooring lines, and a timer control panel. 

• Comprehensive maintenance: Covers preventative and reactive maintenance, winterization, and reinstallation each season. 

• Flexible lease terms: Options range from 3 to 5 years, depending on the size of the fountain unit. 

• Winterization included: In locations with sustained freezing temperatures, fountains are removed after November 1st and reinstalled before April 1st (weather permitting) to prevent ice damage and maintain the manufacturer’s warranty. 

• Fixed annual pricing: Annual lease payments are due once per year, with the first payment required at signing. 

• Additional savings for active clients: Active lake management clients receive 15% off fountain leasing, adding even more value to their comprehensive service plan. 

Leasing is especially advantageous for HOAs or municipalities with limited staffing or technical expertise. It provides access to high-quality equipment without the burden of maintenance or seasonal logistics. 

Which Option is Right for Your Community? 
Choosing between leasing and owning depends on several factors: 

• Budget: Leasing provides predictable costs, while ownership may save money over the long term if your community can handle maintenance. 

• Staff and expertise: Communities with experienced staff may prefer ownership, while those without prefer the convenience of leasing. 

• Pond management goals: For communities seeking turnkey solutions with minimal disruption, leasing ensures professional care and optimal fountain performance year after year. 

Many communities find that a leasing program strikes the perfect balance between functionality, aesthetics, and cost efficiency. Others with dedicated staff and storage space benefit from owning, especially if they plan to maintain the fountain for many years. 

How Jones Lake Management Can Help 
Jones Lake Management offers both leasing and ownership solutions for pond fountains. Our team helps communities: 

• Assess pond size, depth, and aeration needs 

• Recommend fountain models for aesthetics and performance 

• Provide full-service installation, maintenance, and off-season storage for leased fountains 

• Offer guidance for ownership, including maintenance schedules and seasonal care tips 

With professional support, communities can enjoy the visual and environmental benefits of a pond fountain while minimizing stress and protecting their investment. 

Takeaway 
Whether your community chooses to lease or own, a pond fountain enhances water quality, aeration, and curb appeal. Leasing provides convenience and predictable costs, while ownership offers long-term control and potential savings. Jones Lake Management helps communities evaluate the right option, ensuring your pond remains healthy, attractive, and a focal point for residents to enjoy. 

About Jones Lake Management 

Since 1949, Jones Lake Management has been a trusted leader in lake and pond management, delivering scientifically backed solutions to create and maintain healthy, balanced, and beautiful waterbodies. Our expert team offers a full range of services, including fish stocking, fisheries management, water quality monitoring, algae and aquatic weed control, aeration solutions, hydraulic dredging, erosion control, invasive species management, hydraulic dredging, and more. Whether you manage a private lake, an HOA stormwater pond, a golf course water feature, or a municipal waterway, we provide customized solutions to ensure your waterbody remains healthy, functional, and thriving. 

Discover our trusted lake and pond management partners nationwide—bringing expertise and care to communities across the country. From Aqua Services in the Southeast, to Water and Wetland in New England, Savin Lake Services in Michigan, Wisconsin Lake and Pond Resource in Wisconsin, and Clear Water in Texas, each partner delivers premier service tailored to their region.