We guide you in choosing the right pump based on technical specifics such as flow rate, pressure, and discharge height.
What is a Well Pump and Why is it Essential?
A well pump is a device designed to extract water from a well or borehole, allowing it to be transported (for irrigation or domestic use, for example) to the surface or a storage tank. Two main types of pumps stand out for this use: surface pumps and submersible (or immersed) pumps. While surface pumps are placed outside the water, submersible pumps are installed directly within the well.
With a wide range of models available, it's possible to find a well pump suitable for various types of installations. For instance, a submersible pump is ideal for a deep well, while a surface pump may be suitable for shallow wells.
Different Types of Well Pumps
The choice of well pump depends on several criteria, including the depth of the well and the desired flow rate. Here’s an overview of the two main categories of well pumps:
- Surface Pump: Installed outside the well, it is ideal for shallow wells (less than 7 meters deep). It draws water through a suction pipe and is easy to access for maintenance. It is commonly used for domestic and agricultural applications, including irrigation, water supply, and drainage systems.
- Submersible Pump: As the name implies, a submersible pump is designed to function while fully submerged in the liquid it pumps. It operates on the principle of discharge. Submersible pumps come in various types, each designed to meet specific needs, whether it’s for extracting clean water from a well, a deep borehole, a tank, or draining a flooded basement. The choice of pump depends on the nature of the liquid to be pumped, the depth, the discharge height, the volume of water to be treated, and the usage conditions.
Key Criteria for Choosing a Well Pump
To select the well pump that best suits your needs, here are some technical criteria to consider:
- Flow Rate and Pressure: The flow rate of a well pump is expressed in liters per minute or cubic meters per hour. This flow depends on the power of the pump as well as the depth from which the water must be extracted. Pressure, measured in bars, determines the force with which water is sent to the surface. A pump with high pressure is recommended for installations requiring substantial discharge, particularly for large gardens (depending on the type of irrigation) or residences with multiple water points.
- Discharge Height: Discharge height is a key criterion when choosing a well pump, especially if the well is deep. It refers to the maximum height to which water can be transported. For deep wells, a submersible pump is often required, as it can discharge water up to several dozen meters.
- Well Depth and Type: It’s important to know the exact depth of your well to choose an appropriate pump. For shallow wells, a surface pump may be sufficient. However, for deep wells, a submersible pump is recommended. Borehole pumps, on the other hand, are designed to operate in narrow, deep wells, providing constant pressure and flow even at several meters below ground.
- Material Quality: Importance of Stainless Steel: To ensure the durability of your pump, it is recommended to choose a stainless steel model. This material resists corrosion, especially if the well water contains minerals that may cause limescale deposits or oxidation. Submersible pumps made of stainless steel are ideal for deep boreholes as they offer excellent pressure resistance and are suited for humid environments.
In addition to these criteria, you should also consider the price of the product according to your budget, stock availability, and delivery times. Don’t hesitate to consult a professional before making your decision. Also, inquire about accessories available for the installation of your equipment.
Installation and Maintenance of a Well Pump
The installation of a well pump, whether submerged or surface, requires particular attention. It is recommended to hire a professional for installation, especially for submersible pumps, which require specific setup.
Pump maintenance is also crucial to ensure proper operation. For surface pumps, it is necessary to regularly check the suction system and clean the filters. Submersible pumps, on the other hand, require less maintenance but should be periodically inspected to avoid clogging issues. Again, we recommend consulting a professional.
SFA’s Well Pump Range
SFA offers a range of submersible well pumps, the Saniwell series. This series includes all the multi-stage submersible pumps from SFA, which can be used for boreholes, wells, tanks, etc. They all feature a single-phase motor.
- Saniwell SW 4-50 IPC: A compact booster pump for use in rainwater harvesting systems, irrigation networks, and for pumping water from tanks, cisterns, ponds, and wells.
- Saniwell SW 4-50 IPC-F: A compact booster pump for use in rainwater harvesting systems, irrigation networks, and for pumping water from tanks, cisterns, ponds, and wells. It is equipped with a single-phase motor and a "floating strainer" kit that ensures water is pumped from beneath the surface.
- Saniwell SW 4-50 IPC-FB: A compact booster unit for use in rainwater harvesting systems, irrigation networks, and for pumping water from tanks, cisterns, ponds, and wells. It is equipped with a single-phase motor, a "floating strainer" kit, and a booster tank.
- Saniwell SW 5-60 L PC2-F: A booster pump comprising a submersible pump and an external pressure switch for use in rainwater harvesting systems, irrigation networks, and for pumping water from tanks and cisterns. It features a "floating strainer" kit that ensures water is pumped from beneath the surface.
- Saniwell SW 5-60 A: A compact multi-stage submersible pump for use in rainwater harvesting systems, irrigation networks, and for pumping water from tanks, cisterns, ponds, and wells.
- Saniwell SW 4-70: A compact multi-stage submersible pump for use in rainwater harvesting systems, irrigation networks, and for pumping water from tanks, cisterns, ponds, wells, and boreholes.
- Saniwell SW 3-60: A compact multi-stage submersible pump for use in rainwater harvesting systems, irrigation networks, and for pumping water from tanks, cisterns, ponds, wells, and boreholes. Its compact size and reduced diameter make it ideal for narrow wells or boreholes.
At SFA, we offer a wide range of well pumps tailored to every user's needs, at different price points. The price of well pumps varies depending on power, depth, and the type of pump (submersible or surface). You can also explore our range of surface pumps.
Opt for a Well Pump – A Durable and Cost-Effective Choice
A well pump is an investment that might seem optional, but it will provide you with autonomous and cost-effective water delivery while protecting the environment. By choosing the right pump, you ensure reliable water delivery for many years. SFA offers a complete range of well pumps designed to meet all needs, with high-quality models and fast delivery services.
For more information on our products and to get a quote, don’t hesitate to contact a professional who will provide you with advice and guide you toward the best solution for your installation, ensuring good value for money and handling product delivery and installation. If you need a well pump urgently, make sure to check stock availability when selecting your product, as stock levels can vary throughout the year.
