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There are many varieties of solar powered water pumps available. Solar powered pumps have a few advantages over traditionally powered pumps. Solar fountain pumps require much less wiring to be buried if any at all. A traditional pump would require wires to be run from the nearest power source to the pump. Solar powered pumps have the power source close by so you may only have to bury a few feet or none at all.
Solar powered water fountains use the power of the sun so you save money on electricity.
How do you know which pump will work the best for you? This is a good question and since there are no standard answers, it is one of those times where some information on your personal situation and preferences must be determined first.
A disadvantage of solar powered water pumps is that since the solar pump runs on the power of the sun the water’s flow will not always be steady if, for instance, a cloud should pass by. When the sun is partially blocked there is less energy and the water flow will slow. At night when there is no so sun the pump will not run at all.
If you would like your solar fountain pump to run consistently during the day having a solar pump that comes with a battery backup should solve the problem. The pump will draw power from the battery to keep the pump running smoothly, thus avoiding the slowdown when a cloud passes by. If you don’t care if the pump runs consistently then a plain pump will work well for you.
If you want the pump to run at night you will need a pump that has a timer and a battery to keep the pump running for the times you want it to run.
The size of the pump will depend on what you need it to do. Will you be lifting the water up, down or simply moving water but keeping it on the same level?
If water is being moved up into a statue or fountain spray you will need a more powerful pump than someone who is moving the water at the same level, such as creating a current or moving it downward. Remember to account for any upward lift of the water even if it is just a small one as this will affect the pump’s performance.
When you measure the height of the lift make sure you measure from the point at which the pump will draw water up to the highest point. Most pumps list the water lift maximum height so if you are on the borderline of the pump’s capacity, for instance if you need the water to be lifted 3 feet 1 inch and the pump’s maximum is 3 feet, then just get one that is adjustable and move to the next more powerful pump.
Do you want the fountain lit at night? If so you can either get a pump with lights on it or you can shine some solar spot lights on it.
Here are a few tips on planning a successful project with your solar pond pump:
Remember solar pumps run on the power of the sun so make sure you place the panel for the solar pump where it will get plenty of sun.
Make sure your pump is in a tree free and debris free area. Things like pine needles and leaves can clog the pump easily. Check it frequently for clogs.
Be careful if you have animals that will be taking advantage of your pond, to carefully bury wires and securely mount the solar panel.
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