How we research

On this page

This page explains where the information on the site comes from and where its limits are. In short: we read and organize what manufacturers publish. We do not run experiments on the fountains.

Where the data comes from

Every specification in our database comes from one of these places:

  • the manufacturer's product page
  • the official manual or quick-start guide (usually a PDF)
  • the manufacturer's support, FAQ or parts pages

Each spec row on the site links to its source and shows the date we last checked it. If a value is missing, we show a dash instead of guessing. We never take specifications from an Amazon listing.

Specs such as capacity, noise level and filter interval are the manufacturer's claims. We repeat them as claims, and real-world results can differ.

How we pick models

We include a model when it meets these conditions:

  1. The manufacturer publishes enough information to fill in the basics: size, materials, power, pump type and filter.
  2. A manual or support page exists, so owners can find parts and instructions later.
  3. The model is sold in the US. Our "Check price on Amazon" links open an Amazon search for that exact model, so always confirm on Amazon that the listing matches the model before you buy.

A roundup groups models by one feature, such as material or pet size, and lists several brands. The "best for" notes come from the specifications, for example a larger capacity for multi-pet homes. They are not rankings based on how a product performed for us.

What we do not do

  • We do not run lab work or performance measurements.
  • We do not claim to have used or lived with any specific fountain.
  • We do not use Amazon ratings, star scores or review counts, and we do not copy Amazon text or images.
  • We do not show prices, discounts or availability. They change too often to be accurate on a static page.
  • We do not have a veterinarian on staff, and we do not give medical advice.

Owner-reported problems

For the repair and troubleshooting pages we look at public sources: manufacturer support articles, manuals and public owner discussions. We summarize what many owners describe in our own words and link to the source. We do not quote at length, and we do not present a single complaint as a pattern. A reported problem is a report, not proof that a model is defective.

How often we recheck

Each record carries a "checked" date. We aim to recheck models at least once a year, and sooner when a manufacturer changes a product or a manual. Records older than 12 months are flagged internally for review. The "updated" date on every page shows when the text or its data last changed.

Corrections policy

If we find or are told about a mistake, we fix it and update the page date. For a significant factual error we add a short note on the page saying what changed. We do not quietly leave known errors in place.

Report an error

If a spec, link or statement looks wrong, or a manufacturer has updated a product, tell us through the contact page. Include the page address and, if you can, a link to the manufacturer source. We read every message, though we may not be able to reply to each one.

You can also read how the site is funded on the disclosure page and who runs it on the about page.