installation

Which Borehole Pump is Best? Which borehole pump is the best value for money, the most reliable and best for Australia?

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Bore pumps are a type of submersible pump used to extract water from underground sources, commonly referred to as boreholes or wells. These pumps are vital in providing a reliable water supply for various applications, including agricultural irrigation, domestic use, and industrial processes. In Australia, where water scarcity can be a significant issue, bore pumps play a crucial role in ensuring access to groundwater, particularly in rural and remote areas.

How Do Bore Pumps Work?

Bore pumps operate by being submerged in the borehole, where they push water to the surface through a series of pipes. The key components of a bore pump system include:

  • Submersible Pump: The primary unit that is submerged in the borehole and responsible for pumping water.
  • Motor: Attached to the pump, it provides the necessary power to operate the pump.
  • Control Box: Located above ground, it manages the pump’s operation, including start/stop functions and protection mechanisms.
  • Piping System: A network of pipes that transport water from the borehole to the surface and distribute it to the required locations.

The pump’s motor drives an impeller, which creates a centrifugal force that lifts the water through the piping system. Bore pumps are designed to operate underwater, ensuring efficient and reliable performance without the risk of overheating.

Top 3 Bore Pumps for Small Boreholes in Australia

When selecting a bore pump for a small borehole, it’s essential to consider factors such as water demand, borehole depth, and pump efficiency. Here are three of the best bore pumps available in the Australian market:

1. Grundfos SQ Flex 3 SQF-2 Submersible Bore Pump

The Grundfos SQ Flex 3 SQF-2 is a versatile and efficient bore pump designed for small to medium-sized boreholes. It is known for its high performance, reliability, and ease of installation.

Specifications

  • Maximum Flow Rate: 3 cubic meters per hour
  • Maximum Head: 150 meters
  • Power Supply: Solar, AC, or DC
  • Material: Stainless steel construction for durability and corrosion resistance

Benefits:

  • Versatility: Can be powered by solar panels, making it an excellent choice for remote areas without reliable electricity.
  • Durability: Stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to harsh conditions.
  • Efficiency: High-efficiency motor reduces energy consumption, lowering operational costs.
  • Recommended Use: Ideal for domestic water supply, small-scale irrigation, and livestock watering in rural and off-grid locations.

2. Davey Submersible Borehole Pump HS Series

The Davey HS Series is a robust and reliable bore pump designed for small boreholes. Known for its high efficiency and dependable performance, it is a popular choice among Australian consumers.

Specifications

  • Maximum Flow Rate: 4.5 cubic meters per hour
  • Maximum Head: 90 meters
  • Power Supply: Single-phase or three-phase AC
  • Material: Stainless steel and thermoplastic components for enhanced durability

Benefits:

  • Reliable Performance: High-quality motor and pump components ensure consistent and reliable water supply.
  • Energy Efficiency: Designed to minimize energy consumption, reducing operational costs.
  • Easy Installation: Compact design and straightforward installation process make it user-friendly.
  • Recommended Use: Suitable for residential water supply, garden irrigation, and small-scale agricultural applications.

3. Onga Dominator 75 Submersible Pump

The Onga Dominator 75 is a high-performance bore pump designed for small to medium-sized boreholes. It is known for its durability, efficiency, and ease of maintenance.

Specifications

  • Maximum Flow Rate: 3.6 cubic meters per hour
  • Maximum Head: 120 meters
  • Power Supply: Single-phase AC
  • Material: Stainless steel and high-quality thermoplastic construction

Benefits:

  • Durability: Robust construction ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
  • Efficiency: Optimized motor and pump design reduce energy consumption and operational costs.
  • Maintenance-Friendly: Easy access to components simplifies maintenance and repairs.
  • Recommended Use: Perfect for domestic water supply, garden irrigation, and light commercial applications.

Cheap and Reliable Bore Pumps

When it comes to selecting bore pumps for affordability, it’s important to balance cost with efficiency and reliability. Here are three bore pumps that are not only efficient and reliable but also offer good value for money:

4. Grundfos SQ Flex 3 SQF-2 Submersible Bore Pump

Submersible groundwater pumps from Grundfos.

The Grundfos SQ Flex 3 SQF-2 is competitively priced for its versatility and efficiency. Its ability to run on multiple power sources, including solar, can lead to significant savings on energy costs over time.

Specifications

  • Maximum Flow Rate: 3 cubic meters per hour
  • Maximum Head: 150 meters
  • Power Supply: Solar, AC, or DC
  • Material: Stainless steel construction for durability

Benefits:

  • Versatility: Cost-effective for remote areas without reliable electricity due to its solar power option.
  • Durability: Long-lasting performance reduces the need for frequent replacements.
  • Efficiency: High-efficiency motor reduces operational costs.
  • Recommended Use: Ideal for remote domestic water supply, small-scale irrigation, and livestock watering.

5. Davey Submersible Borehole Pump HS Series

New Davey 4″ Borehole Pumps.

The Davey HS Series offers a great balance between cost and performance. Its energy-efficient design and robust construction make it a cost-effective option in the long run.

Specifications:

  • Maximum Flow Rate: 4.5 cubic meters per hour
  • Maximum Head: 90 meters
  • Power Supply: Single-phase or three-phase AC
  • Material: Stainless steel and thermoplastic components

Benefits:

  • Reliable Performance: Reduces maintenance costs due to high-quality components.
  • Energy Efficiency: Lower energy consumption translates to reduced operational costs.
  • Easy Installation: Minimizes installation costs with its user-friendly design.
  • Recommended Use: Suitable for residential water supply, garden irrigation, and small-scale agricultural applications.

6. Onga Dominator 75 Submersible Pump

The Onga Dominator 75 is known for its reasonable price and efficient performance. Its ease of maintenance and robust construction make it a cost-effective choice.

Specifications

  • Maximum Flow Rate: 3.6 cubic meters per hour
  • Maximum Head: 120 meters
  • Power Supply: Single-phase AC
  • Material: Stainless steel and high-quality thermoplastic

Benefits

  • Durability: Reduces long-term costs due to its sturdy construction.
  • Efficiency: Optimized design for lower energy consumption.
  • Maintenance-Friendly: Easy access to components lowers maintenance costs.
  • Recommended Use: Perfect for domestic water supply, garden irrigation, and light commercial applications.

The Best Borehole Pumps for Large Projects

For larger boreholes and projects, it’s crucial to choose bore pumps that offer high capacity, durability, and efficiency. Here are three top-performing bore pumps that are well-suited for larger applications:

7. Grundfos SP Series Submersible Borehole Pumps

The Grundfos SP.

The Grundfos SP Series is renowned for its high efficiency and reliable performance, making it suitable for large-scale projects.

Specifications

  • Maximum Flow Rate: Up to 470 cubic meters per hour
  • Maximum Head: Up to 650 meters
  • Power Supply: Three-phase AC
  • Material: Stainless steel (AISI 304, 316, 904L) for high corrosion resistance

Benefits:

  • High Efficiency: Designed to optimize energy use, reducing operational costs.
  • Durability: Robust stainless steel construction ensures a long lifespan, even in harsh conditions.
  • Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of applications, including municipal water supply, irrigation, and industrial processes.
  • Recommended Use: Ideal for large agricultural irrigation systems, municipal water supply, and industrial water transfer.

8. Franklin Electric 6″ High Capacity Submersible Pumps

Franklin Electric’s high-capacity pumps are designed for demanding applications requiring high flow rates and substantial pressure.

Specifications

  • Maximum Flow Rate: Up to 380 cubic meters per hour
  • Maximum Head: Up to 520 meters
  • Power Supply: Three-phase AC
  • Material: Stainless steel components for enhanced durability

Benefits:

  • High Flow Rates: Capable of handling large volumes of water efficiently.
  • Reliable Performance: Proven track record in various challenging environments.
  • Low Maintenance: Designed for ease of maintenance, reducing downtime.
  • Recommended Use: Suitable for large-scale irrigation, water transfer in industrial settings, and municipal water supply systems.

9. Lowara Z Series Submersible Borehole Pumps

Lowara infographic. Source: LOWARA.

The Lowara Z Series offers robust performance for high-demand applications, featuring a combination of high flow rates and significant head capabilities.

Specifications:

  • Maximum Flow Rate: Up to 330 cubic meters per hour
  • Maximum Head: Up to 550 meters
  • Power Supply: Three-phase AC
  • Material: Stainless steel and Noryl impellers for enhanced durability and efficiency

Benefits:

  • High Efficiency: Designed to provide optimal performance with minimal energy consumption.
  • Durability: Corrosion-resistant materials ensure longevity and reliable operation.
  • Versatility: Can be used in a variety of applications, from agricultural to industrial and municipal uses.
  • Recommended Use: Perfect for large agricultural irrigation systems, industrial water supply, and municipal water distribution.

10. Grundfos SQ Flex 3 SQF-2 Submersible Bore Pump

Grundfos SQFLEX infographic. Source: Grundfos

The Grundfos SQ Flex 3 SQF-2 is competitively priced for its versatility and efficiency. Its ability to run on multiple power sources, including solar, can lead to significant savings on energy costs over time.

Specifications

  • Maximum Flow Rate: 3 cubic meters per hour
  • Maximum Head: 150 meters
  • Power Supply: Solar, AC, or DC
  • Material: Stainless steel construction for durability

Benefits:

  • Versatility: Cost-effective for remote areas without reliable electricity due to its solar power option.
  • Durability: Long-lasting performance reduces the need for frequent replacements.
  • Efficiency: High-efficiency motor reduces operational costs.
  • Recommended Use: Ideal for remote domestic water supply, small-scale irrigation, and livestock watering.

So which borehole pump should I choose?

For larger boreholes and projects, the Grundfos SP Series, Franklin Electric 6″ High Capacity Submersible Pumps, and Lowara Z Series offer the best performance, durability, and efficiency. These pumps are designed to handle substantial volumes of water, making them ideal for applications such as large-scale agricultural irrigation, industrial water transfer, and municipal water supply. By choosing one of these high-capacity bore pumps, you can ensure reliable and efficient water management for your large-scale projects.

For those looking for affordability without compromising on quality, the Grundfos SQ Flex 3 SQF-2, Davey HS Series, and Onga Dominator 75 are excellent choices. Each of these bore pumps offers a unique combination of cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and reliability, making them suitable for a variety of applications in Australia. By investing in one of these pumps, you can ensure a reliable water supply while keeping operational and maintenance costs low.

Bore pumps are essential for providing a reliable water supply in various applications across Australia. Understanding how they work and selecting the right pump for your needs can significantly impact the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of your water supply system. The Grundfos SQ Flex 3 SQF-2, Davey HS Series, and Onga Dominator 75 are three of the best bore pumps available in the Australian market, each offering unique benefits and features suited to small boreholes. Whether you need a pump for domestic use, irrigation, or light commercial applications, these options provide reliable and efficient solutions to meet your water needs.

For stock, pricing and the best advice, pop in store or give us a call at 📞(07) 5531 5554 ⏰ OPEN Monday to Friday 7AM-5PM and Saturday till Midday.
Send us a message if we’re not open and we’ll get back to you.

Stay updated by following our Facebook page and Instagram account @allaboutpumpsandpipes. If you have any questions or inquiries don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (07) 5531 5554.

Why Has My Rainwater Tank Pump’s Safety Switch Tripped?

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switchboard safety switch water tank

Rainwater tank pumps play a crucial role in harnessing and distributing rainwater for various purposes, from irrigation to residential use. In this post, we’ll delve into the functions of a rainwater tank pump, explore the benefits of using one like the Grundfos JP PS pump, and discuss common reasons why the safety switch may trip.

Rainwater harvesting pump systems. Source: Grundfos
Rainwater harvesting pump systems. Source: Grundfos

Rainwater tank pumps are designed to extract water from rainwater tanks and distribute it for irrigation, household use, and other applications. These pumps are essential for maximizing the use of collected rainwater and reducing reliance on mains water supply. In residential settings, rainwater tank pumps provide water for tasks such as watering gardens, filling swimming pools, and flushing toilets.

The Grundfos JP PS Pump

The Grundfos JP PS pump is a reliable and versatile option for rainwater tank applications. Featuring a pressure tank and a self-priming, single-stage centrifugal pump, the JP PS is designed for a wide range of garden and domestic applications.

Here are some of its key benefits:

  • Efficient Water Supply: The JP PS pump delivers consistent water pressure for irrigation and household use, ensuring reliable water supply for various tasks.
  • Self-Priming Design: With its self-priming capability, the pump can automatically evacuate air from the system, ensuring hassle-free operation from the get-go.
  • Robust Construction: Constructed from corrosion-resistant stainless steel (AISI 304), the JP PS pump is built to withstand harsh Australian conditions, ensuring longevity and reliable performance.
  • Thermal Overload Protection: The pump comes equipped with thermal overload protection, safeguarding against overheating and potential damage, providing peace of mind for users.

Domestic pressure boosting with a water pressure pump. Source: Grundfos

Reasons for Safety Switch Tripping

Despite their reliability, rainwater tank pumps may experience issues that lead to safety switch tripping. Some common reasons include:

  • Electrical Overload: Excessive electrical load or short circuits can cause the safety switch to trip as a protective measure.
  • Motor Overheating: Overheating of the pump motor due to prolonged operation or insufficient cooling may trigger the safety switch.
  • Blockages or Mechanical Issues: Blockages in the pump or mechanical issues such as seized bearings can lead to increased motor resistance, prompting the safety switch to trip.

If your rainwater tank pump’s safety switch has tripped, it’s essential to address the underlying issue promptly to prevent further damage and ensure uninterrupted operation. At AllAbout Pumps and Pipes, our team of experienced professionals can diagnose and rectify pump issues efficiently. With our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction, we provide comprehensive pump repair and maintenance services, including spare parts replacement and electrical troubleshooting. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert assistance with your rainwater tank pump concerns, ensuring optimal performance and peace of mind for your rainwater harvesting system.

Stay updated by following our Facebook page and Instagram account @allaboutpumpsandpipes. If you have any questions or inquiries don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (07) 5531 5554.

Can Sprinkler Pipes be Painted?

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Here’s a practical guide to painting with pizzazz!

Adding a bit of colour to your sprinkler pipes? Great idea! But before you break out the paint cans, let’s chat about how to do it right – keeping things professional but without getting too formal.

Can You Spruce Up Your Sprinkler Pipes with Paint?

Absolutely! Painting your sprinkler pipes can give them a fresh look. However, there are some important things to consider, especially if your sprinkler system is a vital part of your fire safety setup.

Fire piping
Fire setup. Captured by Kevin Butz

Tips for a Successful Paint Job

  1. Choose the Right Paint:
    Go for a heat-resistant paint, especially if your pipes are in a fire sprinkler system. This type of paint can handle the heat without causing any issues.
  2. Mind the Sprinkler Heads:
    Those little sprinkler heads are like the superheroes of your system. Don’t paint over them or mess with their job. Cover them up while you paint, so they stay ready to save the day if there’s a fire.
  3. Opt for Non-Corrosive Paint:
    If your pipes are made of metal, use paint that won’t make them rust. It’s like giving your pipes a protective coat to stay in good shape.
  4. Consider Your Pipe Material:
    Pipes come in different materials – metal or plastic. Make sure the paint you choose works well with what your pipes are made of.
  5. Listen to the Experts:
    If the folks who designed your sprinkler system have some rules about painting, follow them. It’s like a guide to make sure everything works smoothly.
  6. Regular Check-Ups:
    Keep an eye on your painted pipes. If the paint starts acting up, fix it. Regular checks help you catch and solve any issues early on.
  7. Follow Local Guidelines:
    Check out the local rules on painting sprinkler pipes. We want things to look good, but we also want them to be safe and in line with the rules.

Remember, Add Style with Safety in Mind

Sprucing up your sprinkler pipes is a fantastic way to add a touch of style. Keep it professional, make informed choices with paint, and stay in the loop with your system’s guidelines. This way, you can enjoy both the aesthetic upgrade and the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained sprinkler setup.

Pop in-store to our Nerang store to see our range, or give us a call at 📞(07) 5531 5554 for the best advice.

Do we Stock Submersible pumps?

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Submersible pumps

Yes, we do!

In general, submersible pumps are designed to be fully immersed in water. Pumps are placed in the water to pump in out, this makes them great for clearing flooded garage, emptying ponds, pumping sewage, or acting as pond filters.

It includes draining flooded areas,  emptying ponds, pumping sewage, or acting as pond filters.

However, finding the right submersible pump may require a bit of research. 

Let’s guide you through the options and highlight the key features to consider when purchasing the best submersible pumps.

Assessing Your Needs for the Ideal Submersible Pump

Before we jump into choosing the perfect submersible pump for you, let’s take a moment to figure out what you need it for. It’s important to identify the specific application or purpose that you have in mind

Understanding your needs will help you narrow the options and choose a pump best suited for your intended use.

Consider the following factors when assessing your needs:

  1. Fluid Type

Determine the type of fluid you need to pump. Is it clean water, wastewater, slurry, or corrosive chemicals? 

Different submersible pumps are designed to handle specific fluid types, and selecting a pump compatible with your fluid ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Flow Rate

Calculate the desired flow rate, which refers to the volume of fluid that needs to be pumped within a specific time frame. The flow rate is typically measured in gallons per minute (GPM) or litres per second (L/s). 

  1. Head Pressure

Evaluate the head pressure, which is the resistance the pump must overcome to lift the fluid to the desired height or distance. 

Head pressure is measured in feet or metres and includes vertical lift, friction loss, and elevation differences. 

Determining the head pressure helps you select a pump that can handle the required pressure levels.

  1. Discharge Capacity

Determine where and how you intend to discharge the pumped fluid. Consider the distance, elevation, and any specific requirements for the discharge point. 

This information will help you select a submersible pump with the necessary discharge capacity to meet your needs.

  1. Application Specifics

Think about any other requirements or specific considerations that are important for your application. For instance, if you’re looking for a submersible pump for a residential sump pit, you might want to prioritize features like automatic float switches for easy and convenient operation 

On the other hand, if you require a pump for agricultural irrigation, you might consider factors such as construction and compatibility with irrigation systems.

Our Top Picks for Submersible Pumps

Reliability and durability are key requirements for both submersible pumps and stormwater systems. 

To ensure these qualities, our team emphasises the importance of making the right choice when it comes to submersible pumps. 

With that in mind, we have curated a selection of the finest submersible pumps that’ll meet your standards for performance and longevity. Here are some of the ones we have in stock:

  1. Grundfos

Grundfos is a remarkable submersible borehole pump engineered specifically for efficiently pumping groundwater.

This exceptional pump is highly versatile and finds its application in a wide range of areas. It  includes drainage, effluent management, wastewater handling, process water supply, and domestic water systems. 

With its impressive capabilities such as the ability to handle solids up to 65mm and its minimal downtime, Grundfos SP offers numerous benefits for various pumping needs.

  1. Lowara Domo Series

DOMO series is a range of stainless steel submersible pumps designed for performance and versatility. These pumps are available with twin-channel or vortex impeller options and can handle suspended solids up to 50mm in diameter (35mm for DOMO 7 and DOMO 7VX). They are specifically suitable for applications such as emptying septic tanks and emergency draining of flooded areas

  1. Orange SP100 

The Orange SP100 Submersible Pump is versatile and reliable for various applications such as cellars, drains, stormwater management, and sewage handling. It features a Vortex action for the effective pumping of solids. 

With dual carbon ceramic seals in an oil bath and additional lip seal protection, the pump offers durability and leak prevention. 

It has a 6-meter rubber electrical cable and an automatic float switch option for convenient operation. The pump is built with a stainless steel shaft, inbuilt motor thermal protection, and can handle liquid temperatures up to 45ºC (60ºC intermittent). 

The Bottomline

Conducting thorough research and considering your needs is crucial in selecting the best submersible pump. 

By taking the time to understand your application requirements and exploring different brands and models, you can make an informed decision that ensures optimal performance and longevity. 

Remember, choosing a pump that aligns with your fluid type, flow rate, head pressure, and discharge capacity is important. 

For more information and expert guidance on selecting the ideal submersible pump, please visit our store to see our range, or give us a call on  (07) 5531 5554.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram  for more updates.

Guide For A Successful Dam Pump Installation

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Successful Dam Pump Installation

If you are tasked with dewatering a site, you will understand that you are about to undertake a task where careful consideration is key. If the proper procedures are followed, inexpensive and time-consuming delays could result. But, using a water-filled, portable dam such as a cofferdam will reduce delays. That is why installing a dam pump in water is less complicated and lengthy than many alternative solutions.

The Guide

  1. Install a foot valve on the suction pipe to set up a dam pump. It will keep the water in the suction line that prevents large debris from being sucked up with the water, a rock to keep it under the water, and a float to keep it from sitting on the bottom, all tied on with baling twine.
  2. Once the suction end was set up in the dam, attach the discharge fittings and start the pump.
  3. After filling the troughs, disconnect the pump and leave the two sections of Polypipe ready for the next time you need to fill the troughs.
  4.  Took the pump back to the other property.
Pipe water off flow into dam. Source: Nils Bokoboza

What Does ALPP Provide

AllAbout Pumps & Pipes will find the guidance you need to help you in the right direction when planning an important project. If, on the other hand, you find it all a bit overwhelming and would like our help. The team finds detailed instructions on what to measure, where to measure, and any other details required for your design.

Conclusion

At AllAbout Pumps & Pipes, each installation of your choice has a different requirement of specific pressure to deliver the desired flow over a specified distance. The use of dam pump products will help you do the work easier. Our team will equip you with the best products and trusted partners. 

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