Solar Water Pump Systems are becoming more and more popular due to the decreasing cost of solar panels in recent years.
A solar pump drive opens up many new possibilities. Because installers also use them in places without an existing power connection. In addition, there are no energy costs after purchasing solar pump systems.
Clean the solar panels with water at least every couple of years. Fix leaks and broken valves and base all usage and maintenance operations on your system’s manual as provided by the manufacturer. Read on for more tips for better use of your solar water pump systems.
1. Choose The Right Solar Water Pump:
Most users, however, prefer a submersible solar pump drive. Submerging the pump requires a well or deep groundwater source of at least 1000 feet. A solar-powered pump pumps water to a storage tank or a pressure tank when connected to a solar power relay.
Solar Water Pumping System in Zimbabwe |
Flow rate is determined by the use case of the pump (domestic, agricultural, commercial). The manufacturer’s sheet can guide you on how many cubic meters of water you’ll get each day, including for domestic usage, gardening, and livestock consumption.
Pump suction height is limited by atmospheric pressure in meters of water (that is, 9.8 meters) and is in practice limited by 6 or 7 meters. The height of the subsurface pumps, therefore, is always lower than that of the surface pumps. To initiate water suction, the water upstream of these pumps must be primed.
On the other hand, delivery solar pumps (or submerged pumps) are submerged in water, with either their motors integrated with the pumps (monobloc pumps) or on the surface. The pumps are connected to the motor by a shaft that transmits power. An exhaust line usually follows the pump, and the length of the line can vary based on engine power.
Types aside, the following criteria should be observed if you want to buy a solar water pump.
- Wattage: The pump output is given in watts. It should be in a reasonable proportion to the amount of water in the source area. That is why most manufacturers indicate on the packaging for which size the solar water pump is intended. The size of the solar panel is also tailored to this.
- Delivery rate: The required delivery rate also depends on the use case. The flow rate indicates how many litres per hour are circulated by the pump. If this performance is to be beneficial to the water quality, there should be a good ratio to the amount of water.
- Head: The delivery head is the key figure for the height of a water fountain. However, the maximum height is always specified here. This means that a certain size is reached when all conditions are excellent. If the sun shines less intensely, the water fountain of the solar water pump can be correspondingly smaller. Those who rely on high performance here should use a larger pump or more solar area.
2. Add Output AC Line Reactor To Long-Distance Solar Water Pump Systems Projects:
The cable length indicates how far the solar module can protrude from the pump. Long cables are an advantage here because the module can then be positioned according to the amount of sunlight. The longer the cable, the less restricted the options available with the solar module. For a long-distance solar pump system project, you may need an AC output line reactor. Normally we suggest using it when the distance from the pump to the solar pump inverter is over 50m, and request to use it over 100m.3. Choose The Right Solar Panels:
Most AC solar water pump manufacturers provide technical documentation regarding how many watt-peaks it takes to achieve their rated capacity. Solar panels’ Watt-peak data shows how much power they can produce under normal conditions.For the best determination of the size necessary for your photovoltaic installation, we recommend reading the manufacturer’s advice sheet. Last, different solar pump controllers have different request for VOC and VMP, you need to confirm it with you solar pump inverter manufacturers and suppliers
4. Get A Good Solar AC Pump Inverter From A Reliable Manufacturer:
Solar AC Pump inverters have a straightforward job. They convert DC electricity generated from PVs or batteries into AC electricity for household appliances. Today, you are faced with a more complex decision to make since there are numerous models and options available.Before purchasing a solar inverter for your solar water pump systems, you must ensure that you choose a company that provided proper support and spare parts with excellent after-sales service.
5. Maintain Solar Panels:
Maintaining solar panels is not as complicated as people think. Solar panels need to be cleaned at least once a year with soap and water. However, provided there is sufficient sunlight, solar panels can last up to 25 years without additional maintenance.6. Monitor Water Flow:
Observe the water flowing from a faucet when it’s turned on. If you are not getting any water from the pump, your pump may be set too high. Due to high water demand, the pump drains the water levels over time to the point it is no longer submerged, as it pulls water from the source. On the other hand, droughts during the dry seasons may account for the low levels. Consider resetting the pump positioning on/in the water source.7. Fix Leaks and Broken Valves:
Wear and tear are to be expected in the case of daily use. If there is a broken line, the riser pipe may have a check valve stuck open to be repaired. However, the break in the piping typically occurs within the building or between the pump and the building. Soggy lawns may be a sign of a leaky pump line.You can also gauge the water pressure by shutting off the water to the house. If the pressure stays steady, then the check valves and lines are most likely okay. In the case of a pressure drop, there is probably leakage in the line that leads to the house or a blockage with the check valve.
In addition, sometimes the water pump starts and then shuts off after a few seconds. In this case, the pressure is likely to build up too quickly. This implies that the pressure tank doesn’t have enough air. At this juncture, please call a professional.
8. Positioning:
For efficient performance, a pump needs to raise a column of water, which may be deep beneath the surface, or slightly beneath the water’s surface.A lower pump location will affect the flow performance of your rig leading to more energy usage. Many wells have a pump installed at the bottom. Please note that with this kind of positioning, there may not be enough power to manage water flow through the system to create the flow on days without sun, as there isn’t enough power to control its exit.
The same problem also arises when the distance between the pump and the water usage site is exceedingly long—more pumping power is required. Regular obstruction of the filter can also impact flow—obstruction results from sediment that accumulates at the bottom of the well. A pump housing at the bottom of a well is undoubtedly the worst possible location. Position it slightly beneath the surface of the water in the well.
9. Test The Efficiency Of Your Panels
You can track the degree of power the panel produces when they perform the pump-to-panel test. The battery can also be tested to make sure it is functioning properly with this test.- Remove the pump and panel from the battery unit completely.
- Bypass the battery by connecting the pump’s lead straight to the panel as the power source.
With this method, the pump receives its power straight from the panel.
The pump will generally begin working immediately when exposed to sunlight, but you must ensure the pump is close to the surface of the water in order for the test to be successful. If you’re having consistency problems, you can usually solve them by relocating your pump close to the surface of the water.
10. Use A Float Switch:
If you use a float switch, your work becomes easy. Water levels determine when to turn the pump on or off. When the tank is low, the pump will turn on, and when it is full, it will turn off. When the pump down float is active, the pump will start running at full capacity and stop when the tank is empty.It is possible to connect some LCBs to an input of a float switch instead of directly to the pump. However, beware that some LCBs may perform differently when used with a float switch, so check the LCB manual to determine what to expect.
Elevate To Improve The Flow:
The flow of water inside pipes in a house depends on the pump’s water pressure. You may need as low as 20 PSI (pounds per square inch) of pressure in a typical house. There are several ways to achieve water pressure. As a basic method, use gravity by storing water in a tank placed above the home. You get 0.433 PSI water pressure for each foot of height. For example, if your house has a 100′ high tank, you will have 43.3 PSI on the water (100′ x .433).Get A Booster Pump:
A small booster pump(mainly for solar dc water pump systems), which can pressurize the pipes if an elevated tank is not possible, can be used instead of elevation. Pumps that are connected to the batteries can pressurize at any time of the day or night. The PSI capacity of the booster pump and the amps required to apply pressure will be illustrated on the technical specs.Aim For Maximum Exposure:
You should find the best location for your solar panel based on your knowledge of your system. Install the panel in an open place so that it is never shaded. Most residential panels are tilted by default. It is good to install a solar tracking PV module if you need more water in the summer for irrigation. By following the sun, the solar panel can generate the maximum amount of power. Solar panels with sun-tracking capabilities can provide 20-40% more energy than fixed panels during the day.Prevent Damage To The Pump:
You must take steps to prevent the solar water pump from getting damaged after investing all that money in it. First of all, the pump must detect the water level inside the tank to turn off. You can check with your pump’s manufacturer if it already has this feature. A properly grounded system is also important. Some manufacturers’ warranties may even require a surge arrester. In the case of a direct lightning strike to your bay, your pump will still be adequately protected if your system has been grounded properly.Choose The Right Solar Water Pump Systems Inverter:
- Solar AC Pump Drive’s AC Output: This power must match that of the PV rig. Inverter power ratings (STCs) are a good indicator of the minimum size required. A larger inverter may be needed for systems located in higher elevations; this will eliminate power clipping. During cold, sunny days and dense clouds, a larger inverter will provide more output. By sizing the inverter appropriately, future expansion can also be accommodated.
- Voltage Input Range: Solar pump drives support a wide range of electrical voltages from a solar panel. Temperature coefficient and local climate data will determine the maximum and minimum voltages. A solar pump drive that exceeds its maximum voltage specification may burn, and one that runs at too low a voltage can fail to operate.
Solar water pump systems would not be complete without solar inverters for solar pumps. If you want to make sure your investment performs well, ensure that you are using a high-quality solar pump drive and checking the aftersales services. Along with reliability, people should also consider how they feel about a company’s technical support and customer service.
Contact Nakiso Borehole Drilling for Quality AC and DC Solar Pump Installation Services Backed by an official warranty. Should any difficulty arise, you can rely on us to provide dependable service.
Solar Water Pumps Recommended By Nakiso Borehole Drilling:
Other Services Offered:
1. Borehole Siting.2. Borehole Drilling.
3. Water Reticulation.
4. Borehole Repairs.
5. Tank Installations.
6. Pump Installations.
7. Solar Water Systems ... etc.
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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.
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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.
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