The ultimate guide to understanding submersible pumps

Submerged pumps are essential devices to ensure water supply from various underground sources such as wells, boreholes, or reservoirs. They are increasingly popular among individuals and professionals due to their efficiency, compact size, and discretion. In this article, we will explore the specifics of these equipment, their different types, and the criteria to consider when choosing them.

What is a submerged pump?

A submerged pump is an electric device used to draw water from an underground source and propel it to the surface. It generally consists of a watertight electric motor, a turbine or hydraulic wheel, and an electrical power cable.

The pump is designed to operate fully submerged in water, allowing it to be protected against temperature variations, vibrations, and noise.

The advantages of submerged pumps

Submerged pumps offer several advantages compared to other pumping systems, such as:

  • High energy efficiency: Due to their positioning directly in water, they minimize energy losses due to friction, which gives them a better performance.
  • Long lifespan: Submerged pumps are designed to resist corrosion and wear caused by water and are generally made with high-quality materials such as stainless steel or reinforced plastic.
  • Reduced footprint: They do not require bulky support structures and can be installed in confined spaces.
  • Sound discretion: Being fully submerged in water provides soundproofing, making them much quieter than other types of pumps.

drawing water from an underground source

Different types of submerged pumps

There are several types of submerged pumps, each adapted to specific needs.

Submerged pump for wells

This type of pump is designed to draw water from traditional or drilled wells. It has a multicellular turbine that provides significant pressure to transport water to the surface.

The depth at which it can be submerged depends on its power and the total manometric head (HMT) required for the intended application.

Submerged pump for boreholes

This type of pump is specially designed for boreholes. It also has a multicellular turbine and can be submerged at significant depths, up to several hundred meters.

The motor power depends on the HMT required for the specific application.

Submerged pump for rainwater recovery

Submerged pumps for rainwater recovery are designed to draw water from underground or buried reservoirs.

They generally have a single-cell turbine and can be equipped with an integrated float that automatically controls their start and stop based on the water level in the reservoir.

How to choose a submerged pump?

Buying a submerged pump

To choose the right submerged pump, it is essential to consider the following criteria.

Total manometric head (HMT)

The HMT is the vertical distance between the water level in the underground source and the point of water use, plus the head loss due to friction and elbows in the pipes.

It is important to choose a pump with a suitable HMT for your needs, otherwise, it will not be able to provide a sufficient flow.

Flow rate of submerged pumps

The flow rate is the amount of water delivered by the pump in a given time. It is expressed in liters per minute (L/min) or cubic meters per hour (m³/h).

When choosing a submerged pump, make sure that its flow rate is sufficient to meet your water needs, whether it is for supplying a house, a garden, an irrigation system, or a pool.

Motor power

The motor power of the submerged pump determines its ability to provide the necessary pressure to transport water to the surface and operate without overheating.

It should be chosen based on the HMT required for your application and the depth at which the pump needs to be submerged.

Construction materials

To ensure a long lifespan for your submerged pump, it is important to choose models made with materials resistant to corrosion and wear caused by water, such as stainless steel or reinforced plastic.

Finally, do not hesitate to seek advice from a professional to help you choose the most suitable submerged pump for your needs and installation.