A submersible pump, as its name suggests, is capable of running underwater. This is one of the most versatile pump types on the market and is useful in a whole range of applications.

Like all pumps, there are many different types of submersibles to cope with a variety of applications. Because of the variety of pumps available, it is important that you understand the differences between them and the features you need to look out for when buying a submersible pump.

In this guide, we answer all the questions you have regarding pumps, such as:

What is a Submersible Pump?
How does a Submersible Pump work?
and what is the best Submersible Pump Brand?

What is Submersible Pump?

A submersible pump is a type of centrifugal (impeller operated) pump that can be operated when fully submerged underwater. Hermetically sealed to ensure the inner electrics are protected, a submersible pump is either air or oil fuelled and can accommodate a range of impellers to tackle liquids and solids of different sizes and viscosity.

How does a Submersible Pump Work?

As mentioned above, a submersible pump is hermetically sealed to ensure the inner electrics are protected from the water. Useful in a variety of situations where you may want to remove unwanted bodies of water; a submersible pump works using a float switch to detect when water reaches a certain level. When the float switch detects the presence of water the motor within the pump is activated. This sucks the water up and into the pump, before being ejected out of the pump by the impellers.

Step 1: The float switch detects the presence of water.
Step 2: The float switch operates the pump motor.
Step 3: Impellers draw water into the pump.
Step 4: Impellers force the water out of the pump and away from the home.

What is a Submersible Pump Used For?

Submersible pumps can be used in a vast and varied number of applications. It is one of the core reasons they can seem like such complicated pieces of equipment. Saying that, for the average person, a submersible pump will be used for one of the following three applications.

Pumping From Boreholes

The submersible pump is ideal for pumping water out of boreholes. Efficient at pumping water up from great depths, the design of a submersible pump allows it to sit in tight or confined spaces and pump water without using too much power.

Can Submersible Pumps Run Continuously?

Yes, you can run a submersible pump continuously for as long as you require if you have a suitable source of water. Saying that it is imperative that you do not run a submersible pump dry. Running the majority of submersible pumps dry can cause significant damage to the inner motor and components.

Choosing from the Various Submersible Pump Brands

Different brands offer a range of products capable of providing various solutions. Some are capable of tackling high viscosity liquids in short periods of time, while some submersibles are designed to be as efficient as possible over long periods of time.

The Ten Best Submersible Pumps That Are Popular In Zimbabwe:

Submersible pumps can be used in a range of applications across commercial, industrial and domestic settings. From sewage treatment to oil wells, and from draining mine shafts to removing floodwater from a cellar, a submersible pump will make short work of an array of pumping requirements.

To help you navigate the complex world of submersible pumps, we have suggested Ten of the most popular Submersible Pump Brands in Zimbabwe, each of which is suitable for a different pumping application.

Popular Submersible Borehole Pumps in Zimbabwe:

1. DAB Submersible Pumps.
2. Franklin Submersible Pumps.

3. Sterling Submersible Pumps.

4. Shimge Submersible Pumps.
5. Nexus Submersible Pumps.
6. Tesla Submersible Pumps.
7. Turner Morris Submersible Pumps.
8. Goulds Submersible Pumps.
9. Flotec Submersible Pumps.
10. Dayton Submersible Pumps.

Also Read: The Ten Most Popular Borehole Submersible Pumps in Zimbabwe

Notable Mentions:

Grundfos Submersible Pumps. Grundfos is the largest pump brand in the UK. Offering a selection of innovative pumping technology, Grundfos is a trusted brand among engineers and offers carefully designed, well-constructed pumps, albeit, at prices a little higher than their competitors.
Stuart Turner Submersible Pumps: Stuart Turner is an internationally recognised pump solutions provider and has an unprecedented reputation for product quality and innovation. Engineered to perfection, Stuart Turner submersibles offer power and reliability.
Calpeda Submersible Pumps: Offering engineering products for the manufacturing and industrial side of the pumping world, Calpeda is a pioneer in the development of heavy-duty products that tackle the regular jobs other pumps can’t handle.
Lowara Submersible Pumps: Another heavy-duty brand, Lowara have developed one of the finest submersible pump selections on the market. Capable of handling high viscosity liquid and dirty water, Lowara pumps offer a heavy-duty solution at a more than reasonable price.
KSB Submersible Pumps: KSB is one of the leading producers of pump technology and develops submersible pumps for both heavy-duty and light-duty requirements. Founded in Germany, you can expect quality engineering at an affordable price.

Choosing the Right Float Switch:

A common mistake is buying the wrong type of float switch. There are two types available. They are:

1. Vertical Switch Pump: This switch activates the pump by moving straight up. Often used in smaller pumps, this float can be used in smaller 10-inch diameter submersible pumps.

2. Tethered Switch Pump: This switch activates the pump by moving in a diagonal direction upwards. Only available in pumps with a 14 inch (or above) intake, these floats are often used in heavy-duty submersible pumps.
Consider the Pumping Distance: Submersible pumps will come in all different shapes and sizes. One of the key differentiators is the power capability of each pump. Consider how far you want to pump liquid. The further you want to pump the liquid, the more powerful you will want the pump to be.

A Few Final Dos & Don’ts of Buying a Submersible Pump:

Before buying and using a pump, take a look over these Dos and Don’ts. Most will be common sense, but a few will ensure your pump stays in full working order. On a further note, please take the time to thoroughly read the installation and operation manual provided with each pump.

DO:

Check the Pump isn’t Damaged Prior to Use. If you are buying second hand or renting a submersible pump, please take the time to ensure the pump is not damaged prior to use. Take extra time to ensure cables are not frayed.
Connect to an Appropriate Power Supply. If the pump fails while underwater, you will thank your lucky stars that you noted down the pump type and model.
Make sure the Float Switch can Move Unrestricted. The main cause of submersible pump failure is the pump running dry. This is often caused by a faulty float switch.

DON’T:

Lower the Pump Down with the Power Cable. If the power cable frays when lowering the pump down then you are guaranteed to break the pump. Electricity and water do not mix. Take the time and care to lower the pump down and secure it in place.
Allow the Pump to Run Dry. The most important thing to not do is let the pump run dry. Submersibles are designed to pump water at all times and must have a suitable water supply. Purchase a submersible with a float switch to ensure automatic cut off.

Contact Us Today! If you are still not sure about the specific pump you need, then that is where we come in! Our Technical Sales Engineers have been specifying Submersible Borehole Pumps to Borehole Drillers, Water Engineering Companies as well as Owners of Private Water Systems for years.

Simply give us a call on +263 78 860 8009 and we will advise you on the Borehole Submersible Pump that best suits your Installation requirements and Budget.

Nakiso Borehole Drilling: Your Trusted Partner for Safe, Sustainable Water Access

At Nakiso Borehole Drilling, we are your comprehensive partner for unlocking reliable water on your property. Our highly skilled team tackles all drilling projects, from standard boreholes to specialized Blast Hole and RC Drilling. We handle everything in-house for a seamless experience, encompassing expert borehole siting, efficient drilling, and pump installation – solar, electric, or manual – tailored to your specific needs. With Nakiso, your reliable water source is just a drill away.

We don't just strive to be the best; we maintain the industry's strictest quality standards and are committed to sustainable practices for the future of Zimbabwe's water security.

For All Your Borehole Drilling Services Contact Us:

Five Facts About Borehole Drilling That You Need To Take Note Of:
1. Know Your Borehole Casings:The Preferred Borehole Casing In Zimbabwe Is Class 9 and 10 (Pressure Classes.)This is because Class 9 and Class 10 Casings are more collapse resistant. The strength of a Casing is often described as collapse resistance.

2. Borehole Drilling Depth: The exact depth, of where the water is located, cannot be established by the drilling contractor nor the Water Surveyor (Borehole Siter).

3. The Is No 100% Guarantee On Water: It is important to note that it is never a 100% guarantee that any hole will yield water, the amount and water quality can also not be guaranteed by the drilling contractor and water surveyor.

4. Borehole Siting or Water Surveying Is Important: Making use of a hydrologist or traditional water diviner will increase your chances of having a successful borehole that will yield a sufficient amount of water.

5. Know The Risks: The risk of the borehole drilling lies with the property owner. The client will still be liable for the drilling costs irrespective of a borehole yielding water or not.

Your smile is our commitment!

Business Offices: 65 Churchill Avenue, Alexandra Park, Harare North, Zimbabwe.

Call Us Today:

Office Numbers: +263 867 71 88844

Sales: +263 78 860 8009
Operations: +263 78 860 8005
Marketing: +263 78 876 6701

Email: info@nakisoboreholes.co.zw
Website: www.nakisoboreholes.co.zw