Indoor waterfalls are found in many living rooms as conversation pieces. These are actually systems of water flowing continuously from top to bottom between two transparent sheets with a decorative backdrop. Lights and sounds are used in order to enhance the entire effect.
Waterfalls placed indoors may be wall-mounted, tabletop or even placed on the floor. Wall-mounted waterfalls are flat, while tabletop ones may be of any desired shape or theme. Stone, copper, glass, slate or stainless steel are the usual materials used in these waterfalls.
The basic parts of an indoor waterfall are the container, tiers and a submersible pump. Of course, water is of prime importance. The container is a basin which collects water as it falls. A pump is kept submerged inside the container. It resends the water to the top through the tiers and the water falls from a concealed space at the top. Water is made to fall between two translucent sheets which may be of glass. However, there can be infinite number of aesthetically appealing ways in which water can be made to fall. There may be paintings or panels on which the water falls. There can also be several colors and themes, making each waterfall quite personal and unique.
The play of sound and light is important in creating a realistic waterfall. Many waterfalls have a halogen lamp at the point where the water is just about to enter the container. This makes the entire water flow shimmer as it falls, giving the effect of tiny pearls. Sound devices are placed strategically. These make water sounds, making it seem quite natural.
While buying an indoor waterfall, its play of dramatics must be seen. A waterfall making loud noises won't be ideal for a small room or a bathroom. Similarly, space is also to be considered. The light should not be too bright if the room is small.
Waterfalls are also available in combination with aquaria. Water is made to fall in a tank placed at the bottom instead of the container. Live fish and aquatic plants are placed in the aquarium lines with marine features. Such combination waterfalls are in much demand.
There are also cascading waterfalls in which the water is made to fall through a surface that curves several times. The curves can be arranged to give the desired effect.
The prices of indoor waterfalls vary, depending on their art and features. Being pieces of art, they are definitely very expensive and looked upon as status symbols. Cheaper versions are also available, often in copper and of smaller sizes. Waterfalls also have Feng Shui relevance. Feng Shui experts believe having flowing water within a room creates dynamism in it and leads to progress.
