5 Reasons to Pick a Submersible Pump for Field Irrigation Systems
As weather patterns change and drought threatens much of the country's best farming areas, well irrigation is becoming more and more important to farmers. If you're expanding or upgrading your irrigation system, take the time to invest in better well pumps instead of just going with the common jet models that were the only option for decades. Investing in a modern submersible pump for irrigating full fields can pay off in five big ways.
Reduced Electricity Bills
When it comes to running a profitable commercial farm, you must minimize every expense, no matter how small. Trimming your electricity bills down can free up money for expansion or just keep you from having to take out a loan for next year's seed supply. Submersible pumps tend to use around 50% of the energy required by comparable jet models. These pumps can also save you money by:
- Reducing the number of parts needed to control and power the pump
- Simplifying the installation process
- Allowing you to use wells with bores that can't support other types of pumps.
Greater Range of Pressure
The average jet pump used for irrigation sucks water up out of the well, which greatly limits the amount of pressure it can produce. In contrast, the submersible pump can generate as much pressure as you need by pushing the water up instead. The pressure is also easier to sustain over longer distances, which is crucial when you're trying to send water across dozens of acres of fields from a centrally located well and pump. It's usually more affordable to dig a single very deep well than to drill multiple water sources around your property, but you can only rely on a single water source if you pick a pump capable of maintaining strong pressure.
More Flexible Installation Options
While these pumps are most commonly installed in shallow or deep bore wells, they also work well in ponds, rivers, and other natural bodies of surface water. As long as the pump remains submerged, it's not very important what water source surrounds it. This allows you to take advantage of other sources of water on your property without having to install an entire well house to protect the delicate electrical components of an above-ground jet pump. The submersible pump can also rest sideways under the water to take advantage of a shallow pond or lake without interference in the operation of the pump mechanism.
Improved Flood Resistance
Is your well or surface water source located in an area that regularly floods? Submersible pumps are a safer option for areas with rising water levels because there's no electrical components left exposed on the surface. A jet pump that gets wet in a flood burns out and requires replacement. A submersible pump is already designed to stay underwater at all times, so you only need to worry about electrical shorts if the power cord is damaged by something.
Fewer Maintenance Chores
Finally, consider how much work it takes to keep your irrigation pump running on a daily basis. A short breakdown of a pump can cost you thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in crop damage. Submersible pumps don't need priming, and the sealed design that products the electrical parts from the moisture also eliminate the need for oiling and similar maintenance tasks.
Don't choose the wrong pump when planning your irrigation system or you'll end up facing high electricity bills and constant maintenance. By investing in a submersible pump that fits your well or pond, you'll get years of reliably watered fields without spending all your hard-earned profits. Investing in quality irrigation equipment right now is essential even if you're in a temperate climate since rainfall patterns can always change and leave your area arid. Learn more by contacting companies like PFC Equipment, Inc.
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