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Solar Water Pumps: Things To Know and Tips For Use

Updated: Feb 3, 2023


Solar Water Pumps

Overview of Solar Water Pump


A solar water pump system is essentially an electrical pump system with one or more photovoltaic (PV) panels. A solar panel array drives an electric motor, which powers a bore or surface pump in a conventional solar-powered pumping system.


Working on Solar Pump


When the sun shines on the PV panels, the solar panels convert the light into electrical energy using Si wafers embedded within the panels. The solar energy is then transferred to an electrical motor, which is used to power the pumping mechanism via cables. The pump begins to pick up soil water and supplies it to the fields by turning the shaft linked to the pump.


Types of Solar Pumps


Submersible Solar Pumps


These pumps can move water up to 650 feet and are small enough to fit into a large well. When the water depth in the well is greater than 20 feet below the surface, these pumps can operate without batteries, solar panels, or other power sources in some situations. Water is often pumped throughout the day as the sun shines, and the water is then stored in a tank for use whenever needed.



You should keep water in excellent weather because the water will not pump if the weather is bad. These pumps are typically employed in areas where water is accessible at a greater depth, and open wells are unavailable. Pumping to a depth of 50 metres is the maximum depth recommended.


Surface Solar Pumps


These pumps are employed in ponds, shallow wells, storage tanks, and streams. The well's water supply depth should be less than or equal to 20 feet from the surface. These pumps can't pick up water from a deep well too far away, but they can push it 200 feet or more. These pumps can pump and lift water from depths of up to 20 metres.


Benefits of Solar Pumps

  • Solar pump setups are adaptable and can be used for various purposes.

  • It enables individuals to manage their water supply for drinking, farming, animals, irrigation, and other housing needs.

  • In general, in the summer, water usage is at its peak. The PV panels may generate the maximum power during this season, allowing more water to be pumped into the water tank.

  • Solar technology is reliable and requires less protection due to the ease with which PV-powered water pumps may be installed.

  • Solar water pumps are easy to move and reposition and have incredibly low operating costs. They can be grouped according to the demands of the farm.

  • These advantages, combined with their long-term cost-effectiveness, demonstrate that a solar water pumping system is the ideal answer for areas with abundant water and sunny days.

7 Tips For Better Use of Solar Water Pumps


Choose the Right Pump


There are two types of solar water pump systems: surface and submersible water pumps. Surface pumps are ideal when there are local water sources such as a lake, stream, or river. Hoses link the pump to the water source and, depending on your needs, a storage tank, water feature, or irrigator.


On the other hand, the majority of users prefer a submersible solar pump drive. A well or deep groundwater source of at least 1000 feet is required to submerge the pump. When connected to a solar power relay, a solar-powered pump pumps water to a storage tank or a pressure tank.


Choose the Right Solar Pump


Most AC solar water pump manufacturers provide technical paperwork detailing the number of watt-peaks required to reach their rated capacity. Watt-peak data for solar pumps reveals how much power they can generate under typical conditions.


We recommend reviewing the manufacturer's instruction leaflet to determine the size required for your photovoltaic installation. Last but not least, different solar pump controllers have varied VOC and VMP requirements, so double-check with your solar pump inverter makers and suppliers.


Get a Good Solar AC Pump Inverter


The job of solar AC pump inverters is simple. They convert DC electricity from solar panels or batteries into AC electricity for household appliances. Because there are so many models and options available now, you'll have to make a more informed decision.


Before buying a solar inverter for your solar water pump system, be sure the supplier provides adequate support, spare parts, and outstanding after-sales service.


Maintaining Solar Pumps


Solar pump maintenance is not as difficult as many people believe. Solar pumps should be cleaned with soap and water at least once a year.



Monitor Water Flow


When a faucet is switched on, observe the water streaming from it. Your pump may be set too high if you aren't getting any water from it. Because of the strong demand for water, the pump gradually empties the water levels until it is no longer submerged as it draws water from the source. On the other hand, droughts during the dry seasons may be to blame for the low levels. Reposition the pump on/into the water source if necessary.


Fix Broken Valves and Leaks


In the case of daily use, wear and tear is to be expected. If a line is broken, a check valve in the riser pipe may be jammed open and needs to be fixed. On the other hand, a piping break usually happens within the building or between the pump and the building. Soggy lawns could indicate a leaking pump line.


Shutting off the water to the house can also be used to test the water pressure. If the pressure remains constant, the check valves and lines are likely in good working order. A pressure drop is most likely due to a leak in the line leading to the house or a check valve obstruction.


A pump must raise a column of water, which may be deep beneath the surface or just beneath the water's surface, for efficient performance.


A lower pump location will impair your rig's flow performance, resulting in higher energy consumption. A pump is put at the bottom of many wells. Please keep in mind that with this type of placement, there may not be enough power to manage water flow through the system to create the flow on days when the sun isn't shining, as there isn't enough power to control its exit. Visit the Waaree website to order good-quality solar water pumps for your home today!


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