The Pros and Cons of Water Features
- Michael Bowers
- 1 hour ago
- 4 min read
The Pros and Cons of Pool Water Features
(And Whether They’re Worth It for Your Pool)
If you’re designing a pool, it usually starts simple…Then somewhere along the way, the question comes up:
“Should we add a water feature?” And it’s easy to see why:
Waterfalls
Deck jets
Bubblers
Sheer descents
They look incredible.But here’s the truth most pool companies won’t tell you: Water features are one of the most visually appealing upgrades you can add… but they’re not always one of the most used.
That doesn’t make them a bad choice. It just means you need to understand what you’re really getting. Lets dive into the pros and cons of water features.
What Are Pool Water Features?
Water features are add-ons that move water for visual, sound, or interactive effect.
Common types include:
Sheer descents (smooth sheet of water from a wall)
Deck jets (arched streams shooting into the pool)
Bubblers (on tanning ledges or shallow areas)
Rock waterfalls (natural, resort-style cascades)
In simple terms:They turn your pool from functional into an experience.
The Pros of Water Features
1. They Instantly Upgrade the Look
This is the biggest reason people add them. Water features make a pool feel:
More custom
More high-end
More complete
A simple pool can look: Dramatically different with the right feature.
2. They Create Sound (Which Changes Everything)
This is underrated. Moving water adds ambient sound.
Masks road noise
Creates a relaxing environment
Makes the space feel more private
Especially with:
Sheer descents
Waterfalls
3. Great for Kids and Interaction
Some features aren’t just visual. They’re interactive.
Deck jets
Bubblers
Splash areas
👉 These can become:
Play zones
High-use areas for younger families
4. Enhances Nighttime Experience
With lighting: Water features come alive at night.
Reflections
Movement
Visual depth
This can completely transform the space.
5. Adds a “Resort Feel”
Let’s be honest: This is what people are really buying.
The experience
The atmosphere
The feeling of being somewhere else
The Cons of Water Features
Now let’s talk about what people don’t always consider.
1. They’re Not Used as Much as You Think
This is the biggest reality. At first: You run them all the time.Later: Not so much.
Why?
Noise can become too much
Energy cost
You just don’t think about turning them on
Many become occasional-use features.
2. Added Cost (Can Add Up Quickly)
Water features aren’t cheap. Costs include:
Feature itself
Plumbing
Pump upgrades
Installation
And multiple features? That adds up fast.
3. Increased Energy Use
Moving water requires power. More features = more energy use
Pumps working harder
Longer run times
👉 This increases operating cost.
4. More Maintenance
Water features introduce:
More plumbing
More components
More areas for buildup
Especially with:
Hard water
Debris
👉 Things like:
Calcium buildup
Clogged lines
5. Noise Isn’t Always a Positive
This surprises people. Water sound can be:
Relaxing… or
Too loud
Especially:
Large waterfalls
Multiple features running at once
👉 It can overpower conversation or feel excessive.
6. Can Clash with Certain Designs
If you’re going for:
Clean
Modern
Minimal
Some features (like rock waterfalls) can feel out of place.
7. Not All Features Add Equal Value
Some features:👉 Look great but don’t get used much
Others:👉 Actually get used regularly (like bubblers)
Choosing the right feature matters more than just adding one.
Popular Water Features (Quick Breakdown)
Sheer Descents
👉 Best for:
Modern design
Clean lines
Subtle sound
Deck Jets
👉 Best for:
Visual movement
Kids’ interaction
Bubblers
👉 Best for:
Tanning ledges
High-use, low-maintenance fun
Rock Waterfalls
👉 Best for:
Natural look
Statement feature
So… Are Water Features Worth It?
✅ They’re a Great Fit If You:
Care about visual impact
Want a resort-style feel
Enjoy ambient sound
Plan to use them intentionally
Are okay with added cost and maintenance
❌ They Might Not Be Right If You:
Want a simple, low-maintenance pool
Prefer a quiet environment
Are on a tight budget
Want a clean, minimalist design
Don’t think you’ll use them regularly
THE MORAL OF THE STORY
Water features are not about function. They’re about experience. And when done right: They can elevate your entire backyard. But when added without thought: They can become expensive extras you rarely use.
The biggest mistake homeowners make? Adding water features because they look good—without asking: “Will I actually use and enjoy this regularly?”If the answer is yes: Go for it. If you’re unsure: Keep it simple—you can always add later.
SHAMELESS CALL TO ACTION
If you are ready to dive in and explore the possibilities of fiberglass pool ownership don't hesitate to call Pool Pros today @ 920-771-0107. Our in house pool designers are waiting to help create the outdoor living area of your dreams. When Quality Counts, Count on Pool Pros.
AUTHOR BIO
Mike Bowers is the founder and owner of Pool Pros Inc. in Green Bay, Wisconsin. He has spent 29 years installing and servicing swimming pools throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Is an Advanced Certified Building Professional, Certified Service Professional, Licensed General Contractor, Father to 4 beautiful children and Husband to the one and only "PoolWife" Lysti.
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