Some Facts About Solar Powered Water Pumps

Solar powered water pumps are similar to traditional pumps in the exception that they generate electricity by themselves through high quality solar panels. Energy stored from the sun and converted into energy is transfered as a DC (direct current) power supply. As solar panels naturally produce DC electricity, solar water pumps must be compatible to DC power in order to run properly. Most open water source solar water pumps (such as submersible floating pumps) that are used in ponds, springs, and streams naturally used DC power as an energy source. However, most wells use a centrifugal water pump that uses AC power. In that case, DC power create by the solar panels must be transformed into AC power through an inverter adapter. Becuase this adds to the complexity and expense of the solar water pump, most of them use a DC electricity as a power supply.

On a different note, you'll be happy to know that solar powered water pumps also work when it's cloudy. Even though efficiency is diminished, they still will provide power for many hours. However, when purchasing a solar water pump, make sure that it has sufficient capacity to store energy from sunny days for at least three to five days worth of excess energy.

Choosing the Best Solar Powered Pump for You

Thinking of purchasing a solar powered water pump? Before you do, you have to consider what kind of water pump you want. There a few things to consider when shopping around for solar pumps. First, is your water source a open source or dug out? If so, you will want a floating solar water pump. This will usually be submersible floating pumps. These will be on the less expensive side because you dont' need as much power to draw water from underground. Is your water source a well or underground? If so, there are couple options you can take. Most wells will use a submersible centrifugal solar powered water pump to draw water out. Also referred to AC powered centrifugal pumps.

These are the preferred choice for well solar powered water pumps becuase they are quite, easy to start, and they require little maintenance. They are also good because they can move large volumes of water under relatively small pressure. This makes for a smooth and steady output of water. For shallower wells, you can use a positive displacement system. However, positive displacement pumps tend to be noisier and they expel water rapidly. Some can't tolerate running dry if you happen to run out of water. You may want to use the submersible centrifugal solar powered water pump for shallower wells as well.