What is a water pump?

You want to know more about water pumps, what they do and how to use them, so we’ve answered the most popular questions in the article below.

Need to know more? Email or call our team and we’ll be happy to help you find out more about water pumps and hire one from our available water pump range. Our experts can help you match the right water pump to the job on hand.

Have more questions? If you would like to propose a topic for our ‘You ask, we answer’ articles, email marketing@allwayshire.co.nz and we’ll be happy to hear your suggestions.

What is a water pump?

A water pump is a machine for pumping water from one location to another. It might be necessary to pump water to irrigate, reduce flooding, power a water fountain, or pressurise a household or commercial water supply. Water pumps can also be found in engines as part of the cooling system.

For commercial purposes, water pumps are usually used to remove or drain water from a specific location. This may only be needed during the rainy season or periods of heavy rain, or it may be necessary because of the location or depth of the construction site.

Even in small quantities, unwanted water can cause considerable damage. Being able to remove it quickly with the right water pump can stop flooding, reduce delays and avoid structural damage or surface erosion.

What types of water pump are available?

The most popular types of water pump for commercial use include submersible pumps, centrifugal pumps, jet pumps and positive displacement pumps.

Choosing the right water pump depends on whether it’s a long term solution that will remain in place and activate when needed, or it’s a short term requirement to manage unwanted water during construction or after flooding.

What is a submersible water pump?

A submersible water pump is different from other water pumps because it is designed to work underwater. That means it’s hermetically sealed to ensure liquid doesn’t get into the motor or cause damage to any of its components.

A submersible pump also differs because it works by pushing liquid out using its motor rather than pumping to draw or suck it in. Examples of submersible water pumps include flexi-drive pumps which are self-priming and a great solution for dewatering and drainage work.

What is a centrifugal water pump?

Most commercial water pumps operate with a centrifugal mechanism. A centrifugal water pump uses rotational energy to move water. The energy is generated using the motor or engine. Centrifugal pumps can be used in a variety of applications and are popular because of their ability to deal with a wide range of liquids and produce a relatively high flow rate.

Which water pump do I need?

Choosing the right water pump depends on the type and volume of liquid you need to move (clean water, dirty water or slurry), the distance you need to move it (which will govern how long the hoses need to be) and the speed and quantity of the liquid you want to move (which defines the best type of water pump and the size of its engine).

As a rough guide, submersible water pumps are best for transferring or draining water and pumping the water out of a space that you want to be dry. Centrifugal pumps are best when working with slurry or slash.

If you want to hire the right type of water pump – contact Allways Hire. Our team are experts in water pumps and their applications, and we have a range of water pumps available that we’ve handpicked to be right for your needs.