An efficient sprinkler system is key to keeping your lawn or garden vibrant, lush and aesthetically pleasing. If you’re installing sprinklers for your lawn or garden irrigation solution, you’ll need a reliable irrigation pump to move water from its source to the system.
If you aren’t quite sure how to choose the right pump for your sprinkler system, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together this handy lawn sprinkler pump guide to help simplify your decision.
Types of Irrigation Pumps
An irrigation pump delivers a steady stream of water to the sprinkler heads so they, in turn, can supply water to your lawn or garden. Some common types of irrigation pumps used for lawn sprinkler systems include:
1. Surface Centrifugal Pump
Surface centrifugal pumps — probably the most popular type of sprinkler pump — draw water from reservoirs, wells, streams or lakes. They have a rotating impeller that spins water within a chamber, increasing the speed of the liquid and creating pressure to move water through a hose or pipe. You fill these pumps with water before use — a process known as priming. They provide a consistent flow rate and are available in various capacities.
These pumps are typically used as sprinkler pumps, placed on the shore of a water source with a pipe that runs from the pump to the water. Some centrifugal pumps are self-priming. This means they have a pump casing that acts like a tank, ensuring the impeller stays submerged so you don’t have to prime the pump manually. As a bonus, surface centrifugal pumps are generally straightforward to install and easy on your budget.
2. Submersible Utility Pump
Submersible utility pumps are fully submerged in their water source, hence the name. Unlike centrifugal pumps, they don’t need to be primed before use. They’re powered by a dry or wet electric motor. Wet motors can operate even with water flowing through, while their dry counterparts are encased to prevent contact with water.
Whatever the type of motor, submersible pumps consistently offer efficient performance. If the property you want to irrigate has a water feature, such as a fountain, or is located on a waterfront, these pumps are the ideal choice. They’re great for dewatering and applications that require the pump to be in constant use. The water keeps the motor cool, allowing it to run for long periods — even constantly, in some cases.
3. Turbine or Jet Pump
Essentially, these pumps are a hybrid of surface centrifugal and submersible water pumps. They use suction to bring water up into the sprinkler heads. A jet device lifts water far below the level of the pump.
Turbine pumps offer quiet operation, which is perfect if you crave a relaxing afternoon basking in the sunshine from the comfort of your lawn. They also don’t need to be primed, though you’ll need to adjust the impellers periodically so the pump can operate efficiently.
If you have a lawn with fluctuating water levels, a jet pump may be right up your alley. You’ll commonly see these pumps in areas with shallow groundwater. You might need to install your jet pump above the high water line, though the water level you’re drawing from will vary.
Keep in mind, turbine pumps may require more upfront costs than other irrigation pumps, and they can be more challenging to install and repair. Some may also have a lower flow capacity than what most sprinkler systems require. It’s best to talk to a professional when choosing the right pump for you.
4. Booster Pump
Booster pumps are a common form of centrifugal pump, taking water from a source and moving it through one or multiple impellers to increase water pressure. Simply put, they boost the pressure and performance of your existing system. Municipal water lines often employ these types of pumps.
These pumps work in tandem with other pumps. They’re a go-to choice when higher pressures or pressure differentials are needed, like for filter flushing or fertilizer injection. The enhanced pressure created by the booster pump increases the sprinkler heads’ spray distance and performance, providing better coverage for your lawn.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Irrigation Pumps
Now that you’re familiar with some standard irrigation pump types, how do you select the right one for your watering needs? The ideal type of irrigation pump for your lawn will depend on a few factors, including:
1. Required Pump Flow Rate and Pressure
All irrigation systems — including sprinkler systems — have specific pressure and flow rate requirements. These are typically measured by:
- Gallons per minute (GPM): Flow rate is the amount of water that your system will need to supply over time. It is usually measured by GPM, which describes how many gallons flow out of the sprinkler head each minute.
- Pounds per square inch (PSI): PSI measures water pressure. It’s the force required to push water through the sprinkler system.
Sprinkler systems need pumps that can supply high pressure to push the water through the sprinkler heads. While flow rate requirements can vary depending on the size of your system, surface centrifugal pumps are usually a good choice for sprinkler systems.
That being said, make sure your chosen pump can deliver the necessary pressure and flow rate for your sprinkler system. Read the manufacturer and product specifications carefully to confirm it will cover the lawn entirely.
2. Water Source
The type and location of your sprinkler system’s water source are important considerations. The depth of this water source can influence your choice of irrigation pump.
For instance, surface centrifugal pumps are often sufficient for shallow water sources. Meanwhile, deeper water sources might call for submersible or turbine pumps. Keep in mind that the deeper the water source, the more powerful your pump should be to overcome the vertical distance.
3. Maintenance and Durability
Look for a pump made from durable, corrosion-resistant materials that can endure continuous use. Think about its maintenance requirements, as well — some pumps will need to be serviced more frequently than others. If you don’t want to call a service technician when a problem arises or fix it yourself, consider a lower-maintenance water pump.
Factoring the pump’s typical lifespan, maintenance needs and availability of spare parts into your decision can help you make an effective choice for your sprinkler system.
Find the Irrigation Solutions You Need at Star Water Systems
Choosing the right irrigation pump directly influences your sprinkler system efficiency. If you’re looking for a sprinkler pump that delivers consistent, reliable performance, check out Star Water Systems. We offer a variety of lawn and sprinkler pumps, designed with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship to provide long-lasting performance. Browse our selection of water pumps to find your ideal solution and locate a retailer near you.
Have questions about our products or choosing the right type of pump for your needs? Reach out to our team anytime!
