Page 23 - AWA Vol.41-No.2

IRRIGATION

How to Choose the Best Submersible Pump for Irrigation Systems
rrigation systems are essential for
Imaintaining healthy crops, green
lawns, and thriving gardens. Submers-
ible pumps play a vital role in these
systems by delivering water efficiently
from wells, reservoirs, or other water
sources. Selecting the right submers-
ible pump can significantly impact the
efficiency and longevity of your irriga-
tion setup.
This guide will help you understand
the key factors to consider when
choosing the best submersible pump
for your irrigation system.
Understand Your Irrigation Needs
Before selecting a pump, evaluate the
specific requirements of your irriga-
tion system: designed specifically for deep water pumps work well for high-pressure,
• Water Source: Is the water being sources. low-flow applications.
drawn from a well, river, tank, or other Automatic Controls Check Compatibility with Your Irri-
source? Look for features like automatic start/ gation System
• Flow Rate: Determine the required stop, dry run protection, and pressure Ensure the pump’s output matches
water volume, measured in gallons switches for easier management and the requirements of your sprinklers,
per minute (GPM) or liters per second protection of the pump. drip lines, or hoses.
(L/min). Benefits of Submersible Pumps for Evaluate the Power Supply
• Head Height: Calculate the total Irrigation Select pumps compatible with your
head height, including the vertical Submersible pumps offer several ad- available power source (single-phase
distance from the water source to the vantages: or three-phase electricity).
irrigation area and any friction losses Consult an Expert
in the pipes. • Quiet Operation: Installed underwa-
ter, these pumps operate quietly and Work with a professional to calcu-
• System Pressure: Identify the pres- without disturbance. late head height, flow rates, and other
sure needed to operate your sprin- technical factors to avoid mismatched
klers, drip lines, or other irrigation • Space-Saving Design: They are sub- equipment.
components effectively. merged in the water source, saving
valuable surface space. Maintenance Tips for Submersible
Key Features of Submersible Pumps
Pumps for Irrigation • High Efficiency: Submersible
pumps reduce energy losses as they Regular Inspections: Check for signs
When selecting a submersible pump,
focus on the following features: push water upward rather than pulling of wear, corrosion, or blockages.
it, making them ideal for high-head ir- Clean the Pump: Remove debris from
Material Durability rigation systems. the intake to maintain efficient opera-
Choose pumps made from corrosion- Common Applications for Sub- tion.
resistant materials like stainless steel mersible Pumps in Irrigation Monitor Performance: Watch for pres-
or high-quality thermoplastics, espe- sure drops or unusual noises that may
cially for water sources with impuri- • Agricultural Fields: For large-scale indicate a problem.
ties. crop irrigation.
• Residential Lawns and Gardens: To Replace Parts as Needed: Keep spare
Energy Efficiency
maintain lush landscapes. parts like seals and impellers on hand
Opt for energy-efficient models to for quick repairs.
minimize operational costs, particular- • Golf Courses: For even water distri- Conclusion
ly for large-scale irrigation systems. bution across expansive areas.
Pump Size and Power • Greenhouses: For precision water- Choosing the best submersible pump
ing of plants. for your irrigation system involves un-
Match the pump's capacity and mo- derstanding your water needs, evalu-
tor power to your irrigation system's Tips for Selecting the Best Submers- ating pump features, and considering
requirements to avoid overloading or ible Pump long-term maintenance. By investing
underperformance. Choose the Right Pump Type in a high-quality pump tailored to your
Pump Depth Capability Centrifugal submersible pumps requirements, you can ensure efficient
For deep wells, ensure the pump can are ideal for high-flow, low-pressure water delivery and extend the life of
operate effectively at the required needs. your irrigation system.
depth. Some submersible pumps are Turbine or helical rotor submersible Circle 32 on enquiry card
Vol. 41 No. 2 21