Solar Transfer Pumps

Solar Transfer Pumps

You'll find a complete range of solar transfer pumps, equipment and solutions available from your local Irrigear® Independent Experts.

What are solar transfer pumps?
Solar transfer pumps harness the power of the sun to transfer water from one place to another. Their primary purpose is to transfer water rather than deliver it to a specific area for irrigation purposes, such as filling water tanks, moving water between dams or reservoirs, supplying water for livestock, or transferring water for general purposes.

These pumps are commonly used for water supply in remote areas where the use of solar energy is much more convenient than trying to connect to the grid. They provide an efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution for moving water in various applications, particularly in areas with abundant sunlight (like Australia).

What do I need to look for in a solar transfer pump?
Solar transfer pumps typically consist of the following components that you might like to consider to best suit your needs:

Solar Panels: These are photovoltaic (PV) panels that capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. The number and capacity of solar panels depend on the pump's power requirements and the amount of sunlight available.

Controller: The controller regulates the power flow from the solar panels to the pump, optimizing performance and protecting the system from overvoltage or overcurrent conditions.

Motor: The pump is equipped with an electric motor that drives the impeller or pumping mechanism. The motor is powered by the electricity generated from the solar panels.

Pumping Mechanism: There are several different pumping mechanisms used with solar pumps. The main ones are centrifugal, helical rotor and piston pumps. The optimal type of pumping mechanism varies depending on the application such as submersible pump or surface pump, low head or high head, low volume or high volume.

Storage or Distribution System: In some cases, solar transfer pumps may be used in conjunction with water storage tanks or distribution systems to ensure water availability during periods of low sunlight or high demand. Often the storage capacity is a key component of the overall design.

To find the right solar transfer pump to suit your needs, your local Irrigear expert is here to help.

What do I need to consider when buying a solar transfer pump?
Firstly, what are your water requirements? Determine the volume of water you need to transfer and the desired flow rate (your local Irrigear expert can assist with this). Consider factors such as the distance the water needs to be moved, the elevation changes involved, and any additional pressure requirements. This will help you choose a solar transfer pump with the appropriate capacity. Remember that a solar transfer pump can run all day, every day. Generally solar transfer pumps are designed around a L per day requirement as they will speed up and slow down, depending on the sunlight available. Diesel, petrol and electric powered pumps have only one speed, and are generally designed with higher flow rates in mind. The slower flow rates of solar transfer pumps often result in smaller pipeline diameters and friction losses, resulting in more savings.

There are also different pump types which are designed for specific applications. Consider the type of pump that best suits your needs, such as centrifugal pumps for large volumes or helical rotor pumps for high head and deep well applications. Ensure that the pump type matches your specific water transfer requirements.

How much sun does your property actually receive? Solar irradiation levels vary from location to location and higher levels of sunlight will result in better pump performance. If you are in an area with low sunlight or frequent cloud cover, you may need to consider additional solar panels or a larger capacity pump to compensate for reduced solar energy availability. Your local Irrigear expert can access accurate insolation data for all of Australia and can help you size the optimal solar array.

Are solar transfer pumps high maintenance?
Solar transfer pumps generally require low to moderate maintenance compared to traditional pumps as the pump and motor components of a solar transfer pump typically have fewer moving parts, reducing the potential for mechanical failure. However, the solar panels used to power the pump may require occasional cleaning to remove dust, dirt, or other debris that can reduce their efficiency. Regular visual inspections can help identify any issues that may require cleaning.

As a guide, it is recommended to visually inspect the solar panels regularly. If you notice a significant build-up of dirt, dust, or other obstructions that could impact the panel's performance, it's time for cleaning. A good practice is to clean the panels at least once or twice a year, or as needed based on the local conditions (i.e. if it is very dusty or rains infrequently).

What are the benefits of using a solar transfer pump?

Not only are solar transfer pumps good for the environment (not producing greenhouse gas emissions or contributing to air or noise pollution), but they can also be a very efficient choice. Look for solar transfer pumps with high efficiency ratings that convert more solar energy into mechanical energy, resulting in better performance and cost-effectiveness. Check the pump's specifications or consult with your local Irrigear expert to understand its efficiency levels.

There can also be considerable cost savings in the long term, saving on electricity bills and providing reliability in areas that are remote or prone to power outages, such as off-grid locations or in rural areas. In many cases, a solar transfer pump can be sized much smaller than a mains powered pump. Because they are powered by the sun, they can pump all day every day to achieve the desired output. Being (solar powered) electric pumps, they are also easily automated, reducing labour costs relative to diesel or petrol alternatives.

Your local Irrigear expert can demonstrate the lower cost of life of a solar pump relative to a diesel or petrol pump. In many cases, the return on investment is less than 1 year.

Overall, your local Irrigear expert has the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to design, install, and maintain a solar power transfer pump that is effective, efficient, and reliable. We are committed to providing high-quality service and recommending the right products for every unique situation.

Speak to your local Irrigear expert to partner in designing a new irrigation system to suit your needs.

Irrigear Independent Experts.
With Australia's largest network of owner-operated stores, at your local Irrigear you'll find in-depth knowledge of local conditions and the expertise you need across all areas of water and fluid management – backed by brands and products you know and all important on-ground service and support.

Advice. Products. Solutions. Australia-wide. 
Locally source solar transfer pumping products and solutions from the leaders in pumping, irrigation, filtration, water and fluid management — Irrigear® Independent Experts.

• What are solar transfer pumps?
• What do I need to look for in a solar transfer pump?
• What do I need to consider when buying a solar transfer pump?
• Are solar transfer pumps high maintenance?
• What are the benefits of using a solar transfer pump?

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