I really like this fountain, but contrary to one of the answered questions, it does splash. It's not a big messy splash, more like a fine spray. I use tap water and over time, the fountain has left a fine white mineral deposit on the leaves of the plants I have around it, on the fountain itself and on the  floor in front of the table I have it on. I'm quite sure the wall next to it has the same deposit, but fortunately the wall is white. I'm not sure what to do now, it will obviously have to be moved.