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Do you need to draw water from a well for your irrigation system or to supply water to your country house? If you drink water from an external source on your farm, greenhouse, workplace, home or boat, what you need is a submersible pump. These equipments will provide you with water without any problem. They are simple to use, inexpensive and very functional.
Submersible pumps are very versatile: you will need them not only for water from a well; they can also be used to mobilize water from a pond or aquarium, to empty a flooded basement, and even to rid your boat of unwanted water. If you are thinking of buying a submersible pump you are in the right place: read on!
- There are large capacity submersible pumps with motors above 12 V, but also smaller ones. The large ones are ideal for sewage, residual water and wells. the smaller ones are designed for aquariums and ponds.
- Submersible pumps, unlike traditional pumps, do not work in the absence of water. This means you shouldn’t turn them on when they’re out of the water, or the engine will burn out.
- Power is the main purchase criterion for submersible pumps. Carefully consider which function you will need, and choose the one that is most appropriate for you. Pumps for black water or wells usually have the maximum power and capacity.
The best submersible pumps on the market: our selection
Submersible pumps are of great help to people who live far from the city and need to draw water from a well. They are also used for drainage and boating work. There are many different models and types on the market, so the choice can be complicated. To help you, we have selected the four best models for you:
- The most convenient
- The most efficient
- The best for value for money / The most versatile
- The best for high depths
The most convenient
The Tacklife GSUP2B is a 400 W submersible pump for dark water, with an estimated flow rate of 9000 l / h. It works with a maximum head of 5 m and a depth of 6 m. It does not fear impurities up to Ø 25 mm, leaves just under 3 cm of water when work is completed and has automatic shutdown in case of overload or at the end of the work. It is a light and economical pump whose characteristics make it suitable for the most common uses.
The most efficient
With its 1000 W of absorbed power and a maximum flow rate of 18000 l / h, the Einhell GC-DP 1020 N is a particularly efficient submersible pump for dark water, capable of moving large volumes of water in a short time up to 5 m. depth and with a maximum head of 8 m. It works with residues of no more than 20 mm in diameter, and is equipped with a float switch and universal connector.
The best for value for money / The most versatile
The Makita PF1010 is a 1100 W pump with a flow rate of 15000 l / h, suitable for draining dark water with solid particles up to Ø 35 mm. It has a prevalence of 10 m and works up to 5 m depth. Makita’s proposal is confirmed as a pump with well-balanced characteristics and relatively versatile, robust and performing, and sold at an affordable price.
The best for high depths
The Black & Decker BXUP1100XDE is a 1100 W submersible pump for dark water, with a maximum flow rate of 16500 l / h. Equipped with a 10 m cable, with a maximum head of 10.5 m and a working depth of up to 7 m, the Black & Decker proposal is particularly suitable for working in very deep water, as in the case of large swimming pools. or water wells. It resists impurities of Ø 20 mm and leaves 45 mm of water.
Shopping Guide: Everything you need to know about submersible pumps
On the market you will find a large variety of submersible pumps. There are many different models, types and brands. Choosing the best is no easy feat. To help you understand how this equipment works, we have developed the following buying guide in which we answer the main questions about submersible pumps.
What is a submersible pump?
A submersible pump is, as the name suggests, equipment immersed in a liquid. Submersible pumps contain an impeller sealed in its seat, which allows them to pump the liquid in which they are immersed to the outside. The advantage of this type of pumps is that they produce a high pumping force, since they do not depend on air pressure.
The basic function of submersible pumps is to transport a liquid from one point to another. Therefore, the operating characteristics and the components that act on the liquid must be strictly correlated to the characteristics of the liquid in question. These pumps are mainly used for pumping and extracting wastewater and in wells.
How does a submersible pump work?
The operation of submersible pumps is very simple. These devices push the water towards the surface by converting the rotational energy into kinetic energy and pressure. This is possible thanks to the water circuit in the pump. First in the outlet, where the rotation of the impeller pushes it through the diffuser and, from there, rises to the surface.
They operate in a vertical position, as a result of the type of movement and the way they are designed. This causes the water and the kinetic energy it generates when the system operates to become pressure, to perform the task of pumping the liquid. If you use a clean water pump in black water (with solid residues), the latter could be damaged.
What is a submersible pump used for?
Do you need a water pumping system that doesn’t break when submerged? It is possible that you have a country house, and you need to pump water from a well, or you have a flooded basement and wish to empty it. Well, a submersible pump is the solution you are looking for. Thanks to the engine well sealed in the body, you can immerse it without problems.
Submersible pumps work in non-corrosive liquids, such as mud and water. In short, they are equipment designed to transport liquids from point A to point B. You can use them to:
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- Draw water from a well , natural source, cistern, or drain site.
- Drain a swimming pool to clean it.
- Drain an area of a boat that is flooded for any reason, or in an emergency.
- Eliminate black water or waste water (it will depend on the model).
- Eliminate unconventional wells .
- Draw water from wells for constant use.
- Draining a flooded basement .
What are the advantages and disadvantages of submersible pumps?
The main advantage of a submersible pump is that it is never powered, as it is always immersed in the liquid. Submersible pumps are very efficient, as they don’t really have to use a lot of energy to move the water. The pressure of the water itself pushes it up, saving the pump much of the energy expenditure.
The main disadvantage of submersible pumps is that, over time, the seals may wear out. When this happens, water will eventually enter the motor, rendering it unusable until the pump is repaired or replaced. Furthermore, it is precisely this type of watertight seal that makes repairing a submersible water pump expensive and very complicated.
What can I use submersible pumps for?
This is a question you should ask yourself before making any decisions. If you are planning to buy a submersible pump, the first thing you should be clear about is what you will need it for. Your use of it will make a significant difference in the price, model and type of pump you choose.
Here are some of the more common uses of submersible pumps, and how they affect your purchase decision:
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- Quickly extract water from aquariums and ponds. To do this you will need a simple pump, with a small electric motor between 8 and 10 V. These pumps are the cheapest and easiest to find.
- Wells, water for the house, continued operation.
For continuous use, for example to supply water to your home. In this case, you will need a professional pump. These devices have very powerful motors, up to 900 W, and can work tirelessly for hours. - Clean waters. Clean waters are those that do not contain suspended solid particles. They are those coming from wells, suitable for domestic consumption, for example. It could also be sea or swimming pool water.
- Black waters. For black water there are special pumps, with filters that protect the engine. Black water is usually sewage or waste water, coming from septic tanks, infiltrations and stagnations.
When using a submersible pump, how important is the water flow?
The water flow rate is calculated on the quantity of water to be pumped or extracted divided by the unit of time. It is usually expressed in liters / minute or liters / hour. To determine the required water flow, it will be necessary to calculate the water requirement. In the case of domestic and irrigation systems, it is necessary to ensure that the flow and pressure are sufficient.
Our recommendation is to employ a professional to perform the required flow calculations. This way you will make sure you don’t make a mistake in your choice and that you have all the water you need.
How long can a submersible pump run without switching off?
The running time of a submersible pump depends on the model and make. This is a factor that varies a lot from one pump to another. There are motors with very efficient impeller systems, mounted on steel bearings or ceramic bushings that allow them to run 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Other models have special shells and housings, with heat sinks. These models can run continuously or have duty cycles. The working time is indicated in the specifications of each model as a duty cycle , accompanied by a percentage. For example, a duty cycle of 60% means it works one hour and goes on pause for 40 minutes.
What are the most common problems with submersible water pumps?
Submersible water pumps are complex equipment. Although they are designed to last a long time and work many hours non-stop, they can present problems. These problems are common to all submersible pumps, and include ignition problems, insufficient water flow, and force regulation problems.
Here is a table with the most common problems, their causes, and possible solutions:
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The pump does not turn on . | There is no current or one of the phases is absent. The cable is very long and thin. The contacts broke and the temperature relay tripped. The power cord has become disconnected. There are residues in the impeller. |
Inspect the connection to find the cause. Use a thicker high voltage cable. Replace contacts. Inspect the connection and reconnect. Arrange the electrical part. To clean. |
| There is no water flow. The pump strains too much or too little. | the reserve function has been activated. Less scope than what is indicated. The entrance is blocked. The tube is blocked or broken. The impeller is worn. Bearing assembly is loose or broken. The retention valve is clogged. |
Change the current or reverse the cables. Adjust the lift. Remove obstructions. Remove any obstructions or fix the tubing. Change the impeller. Change the bearing assembly. Change the return valve. |
| The flow is too abundant or too little, using the correct power. | Abundant flow but not enough water. The pump is not positioned to the required depth. The water level is too low to reach the pump inlet. |
Replace the correct flow pump. Submerge the pump as much as necessary. Limit or adjust the pump depth. |
| The automatic axis works correctly, the manual one does not. | The automatic water level electrode is worn or damaged. The ground wire is worn or damaged. |
Inspect the electrode and cable, then change them. Inspect or change the control box. |
How can I clean a submersible pump?
Submersible pumps do not require great maintenance. If the gaskets and internal electrical parts work well, you don’t need to worry. However, if you want the pump to last a long time in good condition you will have to take care of it. Here’s how to clean it, step by step:
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- Disassemble the parts and clean them thoroughly, both in the grooves and in the joints.
- Thoroughly clean all component screws and washers.
- Lubricate the parts that require lubricant to achieve the necessary grip.
- Check for worn , corroded or deteriorated parts.
- If there are broken parts , you will need to replace them.
- Place new sealing parts and components to prevent water from reaching the engine.
- Finally, do an overhaul and assembly of the whole unit and its components before diving.
- Do not pull the pump by the power cord. Place it vertically at the depth indicated by the manufacturer.
Purchase criteria
Now that you know everything you need to know about submersible pumps and how they work, it’s time to focus on the purchase criteria. These factors will make the difference between a good pump and an excellent pump. In this section we will talk about weight, dimensions and other essential criteria for your purchase. Ready? Let’s start!
- Scope
- Black water or clean water
- Use
- Power
- Materials
- Accessories
Scope
Flow rate is one of the main criteria for purchasing a submersible pump. This factor will determine the uses that can be made, as well as the amount of water that can be mobilized from one side to the other. It is very important to know what range is needed to determine which type of equipment is best suited to your case.
If you are looking for a submersible pump for a pond or aquarium, you shouldn’t worry about the flow rate. You don’t need much. On the other hand, to empty swimming pools or to bring water from a well to the house, a higher flow rate is required. Remember to calculate the water flow and always choose according to your needs.
Black or clean waters
Another of the most important characteristics in choosing a submersible pump will depend on the type of liquid we are going to pump. In the market you will find special pumps for clean water, for black and ambivalent water. This factor is very important, because if you use a clean water pump in black water it will burn out.
Dirty water can also come from natural infiltrations or stagnant water. For example, if the basement is flooded or if you want the submersible pump to work for water drained from a toilet, you will need a pump with a black water filter. If you want to fill or empty a pool, the best pumps are those for clean water.
Use
Before choosing a submersible pump model, it is necessary to have a clear idea of its intended use. An aquarium or pond pump is not the same as one for bringing water from a well to your home, or for emptying a septic tank. Each submersible pump has a concrete use and specification that is important to know.
For a pond, a low power pump (10 or 12 V) and without special filters will suffice. These pumps are economical and very discreet. On the other hand, if you want a device that can draw from a well or fill and empty a swimming pool, what you need to look for is a more complex model, with a 600 or 900 W motor and waterproof accessories.
Power
Power is a factor closely related to the previous point. Horsepower will largely determine what your submersible pump is capable of doing. Low-power pumps, i.e. compact models for aquariums and ponds for example, cannot draw water from a well and vice versa.
For continuous and intense use, such as drawing water from a well in your home or giving pressure and flow to the tap, you will need a professional pump. These appliances have 900 W motors, which provide ample flow and enough power to pump water very high, for example to a tank located on the roof of the house.
Materials
Materials are another factor that you shouldn’t overlook when choosing your submersible pump. The quality of the pump and its duration over time will depend on the latter. You have to think that, since they always work underwater, they must have maximum reliability. This is achieved only by using the best materials.
Choose a pump with a steel, high-speed steel (HSS) or stainless steel housing. It is very important that it has layers of protection against rust and corrosion. You should also check waterproof seals, as they are usually one of the main problems with this equipment. Of course, the hoses and rubbers will need to be insulated and sealed.
Accessories
Many people don’t mind accessories when buying a submersible pump. However, the latter can make a difference. The simpler and more compact models usually don’t have many accessories. These equipments are simple and inexpensive; they just need to be connected to work.
On the other hand, if what you are looking for is a professional model, you should pay attention to the presence of some accessories. For example, a float switch that turns off the pump when the water level is too low. It is also important that they have overheating protection systems, which turn off the pump when it gets very hot.