Water pumps, like solar-powered sump pumps, collect water from a variety of resources, such as reservoirs, wells etc. They’re needed for irrigation, neighborhood, and farm maintenance.
When needing to pump water out of your sump basement, you can do it best using a sump pump. But, choosing the best sump pump can get a bit tricky. Fortunately, there are many great options available, and we reviewed our top 12 picks for you to consider.
Choosing The Right Solar Water Pump
A variety of different styled solar-powered sump pumps are accessible on the market. The most common four types are direct current (DC), alternate current (AC), surface, and submersible pumps. The most important thing to consider when purchasing one of these devices is its quality because not all manufacturers are equal, so it’s crucial to choose the right one.
How can you know which model is best for you? There are several aspects to take into account before purchasing one, and we at Water Filters Advisor have mentioned some characteristics and features to look for, below.
- Efficiency: The flow rate is the available amount of water emitted by the unit at a given period of time. The symbol Q is denoted, and we measure it in the following units; LPM, m^3/h, or m^3/s.
- Flow Rate: This is an essential aspect to consider. This is the rate between the power absorbed by the pump and the power supplied.
- Power: The power applied to the water will increase the energy of flowing water per unit volume. So, it depends on the amount present inside the unit and its overall power.
- Speed: The number of revolutions that the pump carries at a specific period of time. The pace indicated by the letter ‘N.’ It is measured by RPM (Revolutions per Minute).
- Net Positive Suction Head: NPSH is an indicator that shows the reluctance of the solar pump to produce complete volume. It’s one of the most important elements to consider when purchasing a centrifugal pump. NPSH must exist throughout pump usage to stop cavitation from occurring.
Now, you know what factors you need to be aware of before purchasing a solar sump pump, but ultimately, the quality still relies on the manufacturing company. Most importantly, they should use high-quality materials for the construction of any machine you choose to purchase.
Check Our Comparison Table
12 Expert Solar Powered Water Pumps Review
1. Docooler 12V 5W with Pond Fountain
| The power output of the brushless pump | 12V 300mA |
| Highest water height | 1.6 meters |
| Max flow rate | 380 liters/per hour |
| Guaranteed lifetime | More than 20,000 hours |
| Size of the solar panel | 18028030mm/ 7.1 * 11.0 * 1.2in |
| Weight | 1.15 kilograms |
This product is perfect for direct-drive water pumps without external batteries. It’s important to remember that your current water level will be a direct result of how much sunlight is available to operate these solar-powered devices. When the sun is down or behind the clouds, these units won’t operate continuously until enough light is back, and then they run continuously.
Maintenance: Try not to immerse panels and regulators in water, because even though they have water resistance features, they aren’t reliable. Still, accidents happen, and if you manage to do that, make sure to dry it as soon as possible since it can damage the panel.
Benefits & Pros
- Using solar energy does not require any fuel, saves money, and is ecologically responsible.
- Reboot: If the sun is out, you will reboot in no more than 3 seconds once the sun is up.
2. Iusun Solar Bird Bath Fountain Pump
| Max flow rate | 150 liters/per hour |
| Highest water height | 1.6 meters |
| Weight | 0.25 kilograms |
| Guaranteed lifetime | More than 10,000 hours |
| Size of the solar panel | 18028030mm/ 7.1 * 11.0 * 1.2in |
| Weight | 1.15 kilograms |
When the sun is down or behind the clouds, they will not operate continuously. Once the sunlight is back, they will continue immediately. The package will include one pump and solar panel, nozzle, and the base for the nozzle, connection head, and outlet. You’ll get a user manual as well.
Maintenance: It is important that there is enough water in the fountain, especially during long, hot summer days. You will want to make sure the pump is kept below ground at all times. Before the first use, don’t forget to peel off the plastic protector, as well. Also, the panel must also be clean and ready to absorb sunlight. You will also want to keep in mind that, when the unit is new, it’s full of air.
Pros & Benefits
- The product comes with a solar-powered battery that charges with sunlight.
- The pump has a Quick Launch feature. Once the sunlight shines over the panel, it will start pumping almost immediately.
3. SHYLIYU DC 12V Farm & Ranch
| The power output of the brushless pump | 12V 130W |
| The wire for the motor | 100% copper |
| Size of the pump | 7.095.5110.24 in |
| Max flow rate | 3000 liters/per hour |
| Warranty | 1-year |
SHYLIYU mostly focuses on industrial machinery, water pumps, metals and components, and other electronic devices. They also include importation and exportation of manufactured goods and have a special focus on the discovery and production of various pumps.
Shyliyu pumps are mechanically simple and easy to maintain and repair as necessary. They are also made from the highest quality non-corrosive materials and are very durable and compact.
Pros & Benefits:
Although SHYLIYU used a handle made of plastic for this model, the body is made of stainless steel.
4. Well Water Pump, 12 V / 24 V DC, Solar Water Pump
| Pump architecture | 3 chambers diaphragm |
| Inbuilt by-pass | 108 PSI Max |
| Outlet connector | 12.7 mm (1/2)” |
| Inlet | 50 stainless steel fabric display |
| Materials | Extra strong plastic |
| Power | 100W |
These well water pumps can support up to 24V of direct current. Their cells conserve more energy than non-solar styles, as well.
Special water-tight cable connections make this unit immune to leakage, condensation issues and prevent water-tightening. It’s also possible to use it for watering cattle, reservoirs, wetlands, rural residences, and homes.
Pros & Benefits:
- Easy to connect to most solar cells or existing wind generator systems.
- Use with or without components such as voltage regulators possible.
- Suitable for livestock irrigation, ponds, secluded houses, and cottages.
- Unique waterproof cable connection is insensitive to leaks and condensation.
- The pump can operate with a 12 V battery system with the same suction height; the flow rate will divide into approximately two parts.
5. NovelBee Solar Water Pump Submersible Well Pump
| Voltage and Power | 12 V and 135 W |
| Reduced voltage possibilities | 12V or 24V DC |
| Suit wells | 100 millimeters or more |
| Warranty | One year |
| Capacity | More than 100L per minute |
| Power | 100W |
Make no mistake, this NovelBee Pump will guarantee you a great flow. Additionally, this product has excellent anti-corrosive elements, so if you need it on a boat, this product will serve you well. It is also one of the best submersible well pump units on the market.
The stainless steel structure of this system makes it suitable for moving water out of pits and deep bores. Its capability to generate high discharge pressure means that water can be pumped from deep bores using a 12V or 24V DC power supply.
Keep in mind that working at the highest discharge pressure may result in thermal safety triggering. Testing indicates thermal protection with the 12 V model will trigger within 5 minutes, but, the 24 V model takes up to 20 minutes to trigger it at the highest pressure ratio.
Pros & Benefits
6. ECO-WORTHY Solar Submersible Water Well Pump
| Max flow rate | 720 liters/per hour |
| Voltage power | 24 volts, direct current (DC) |
| Inlet | 50 stainless steel fabric display |
| Materials | It’s made of a strong stainless steel |
In situations where you need remote water, we have the perfect solution. This ECO-WORTHY pump is robust, durable, and built to last, and its special water-tight connection keeps water from wicking. It also eliminates possible condensation issues that could damage this submersible pump over time. To sum it up, it’s an ideal solution if you have livestock, live in a rural area, or simply want portable water. You may want to check out another built-to-last sump pump called the Superior Pump 92341.
This model does have a few things to pay attention to:
High efficiency. This pump is made for DC sources like solar panels and batteries. Fast start-up, dynamic use, and robust stability.
You can use it in many places whether in external irrigated areas without electrical service or in fields, farm agricultural uses, tank fills, etc.
Temperature. Don’t use a pump for gasoline, petrol, or other flammable substances that have a flashpoint underneath 82 degrees (180F).
Pros & Benefits
This pump is great for a direct current power source, such as solar panels and batteries: Fast start-up, stable, and effective.
7. Amarine Made DC 12V Farm & Ranch Solar Water Pump Submersible
| Voltage | Around 12 Volts |
| Power | Up to 120 Watts |
| Voltage | The best is to keep it around 12V |
This solar pump has a stunning stainless steel electro-motor. It comes fitted with a reliable electrical protective system and waterproof cover. In addition, it has a simplified mechanical structure and doesn’t have too many components to keep track of when using it. That’s why this is one of the quietest sump pumps available on the market today. Additionally, it’s very easy to maintain and repair, if needed, and its huge flow and amazing anti-corrosive elements make it a great value for the money.
Generally speaking, this unit works reasonably well and makes it an easy process to move water around in a pond you plan to build. There’s a good length of rope on the panel, but it wouldn’t hurt if you purchased an even longer one for easier use. It can work with only one of its panels set to 100 watts, easily. The faucet fitting seems like it would operate with a normal backyard hose.
Pros & Benefits:
Voltage can go up to 60 V of direct current, and it will not ruin the machine.
8. YaeGarden DC 12V Submersible Water Pump
| Made in | It’s made in the USA |
| Max flow rate | 100 liters/per hour |
| Voltage power | 12 volts, direct current (DC) |
This YaeGarden pump is easily one of the best on the market because its parts are made of durable stainless steel, it has a DC motor, and has a built-in safety system. It’s made from top-quality plastic and steel and brings many benefits to the operator, including low-power consumption, high-flow, and corrosion resistance.
This solar-powered pump consists of an engine, a pump, and a motor that is made of three main parts: a fixed rotor, a base, and a bearing.
Pros & Benefits:
9. Solariver Solar Water Pump Kit
| Power | 20 Watts |
| Guaranteed lifetime | 20,000+ hours |
| Warranty | One Year |
This pump is a great energy-saving option since it doesn’t require electric power in order to move the water through. It’s fabulous for waterfalls, fountains, or even natural tubs that decorate your yard.
All of its power comes from a solar panel, so the amount of light it receives dictates how quickly the water moves. Because it doesn’t come with a battery, this machine won’t operate in the dark.
Another notable feature is that it’s made to last, with a brushless magnetic engine providing over 20,000 hours of low-noise service. Tech advances in these magnetic pumps suggest that next-generation devices like this can handle everyday operations.
Pros & Benefits:
10. UEETEK 1.2W 7V 180L/H Solar Water Pump Garden Fountain
| Size of the panel | 11011025 millimeters |
| Guaranteed lifetime | 10,000+ hours |
| Max flow rate | 180 liters/per hour |
| Voltage power | 7 volts, direct current (DC) |
| Battery | No battery or electricity needed |
This solar pump is perfect for your backyard fountain décor. In addition to making your landscaping more attractive, there are options for putting these pumps into potable water. For instance, you could wash your pet, but make sure to change frequently to avoid animal fur getting sucked in and decreasing the flow.
Like other solar-powered pumps we reviewed in this article, this unit also depends on regular sunlight to keep a good flow going. Since it comes without a battery, it too won’t work in the dark.
Another factor you might appreciate is that it is an ecologically safe 1.2W pump that uses solar energy to operate. It doesn’t require an additional battery or electric power and can efficiently overcome deficient hard starts, low performance, reduced efficiency, etc.
Pros & Benefits:
11. PWS Stainless 316 Deep Well Submersible Solar Pump
| Max flow rate | 180 liters/per hour |
| Size of the panel | 20.511.95.25 in |
| Power | 540 Watts |
| Voltage power | 7 volts, direct current (DC) |
| Voltage power | 48 volts, direct current (DC) |
| Controller | MPPT controller |
If you need to pump water fast, or up to a certain point, then this is the one for you. In this situation, it is best to use a battery with your unit or specifically buy a deep well version. Factory representatives recommend hooking it up to its solar cell since it has a high energy conversion rate. This also means it has a lower energy consumption rate which makes it very environmentally friendly. We should note that this product doesn’t include a panel with it.
MPPT CONTROLLER: This pump’s controller operates a high-efficiency brushless DC pump engine. It also uses the latest MPPT technique to enhance the flow rate even under low-light levels. This also prevents it from a repeated start-up in low sunlight conditions, overheating, etc.
Detectors are used so that the pumping mechanism can be completely automated, but even with detectors implemented, the well pump will be switched off if the header container is filled up.
Pros & Benefits:
12. AISITIN 2.5W Solar Water Fountain Pump
| Max flow rate | 170 liters/per hour |
| Size of the panel | 20.511.95.25 in |
| Power | 2.5 Watts |
| Voltage power | 7 volts, direct current (DC) |
| Voltage power | 10 volts, direct current (DC) |
| Wire materials | Wire for the motor is 100% copper |
| Warranty | 1-year |
This device operates on 2.5 watts, comes with top-quality panels, and has built-in batteries included. In addition to these great product features, it has automatic storage for solar energy, which means it can operate when there’s not any sunlight and even at night.
This solar-powered pump is ideal for a birdbath, an aquarium, a small pond, a lake, a garden, or even just water flow to create oxygen for your koi pool.
Pros & Benefits
Buyers Guide – Main Features & Benefits
Solar-powered sump pumps work on the basis of Photovoltaics technologies. Essentially, this process transforms the energy from the sun into electricity used for pumping water. Solar units are generally divided into two categories: surface and submersible.
These advanced devices offer a number of benefits. Have a quick peek at the incredible advantages of solar water sump pumps:
- Operating costs are very low. The biggest benefit of a solar pump is that it uses energy at no expense at all. Since solar devices reduce reliance on energy or gasoline, there is no ongoing electricity or fuel price when powered.
- It requires minimal maintenance. Compared to the traditional styles, a solar sump pump needs very minimal maintenance since there aren’t many moving parts. This means it’s unlikely these products will deteriorate as quickly as a regular pump would.
- High-quality and reliable. Another great thing about solar pumps is that they don’t depend on gasoline or electric power. They are extremely beneficial in rural areas, where it’s normal for a household to lose electricity because of severe weather.
- Compared with kinds of water-powered sump pumps, solar units are ecologically friendly. Standard models usually require fuel, and whether you use propane or gasoline, it creates air pollution and airborne contaminants. Additionally, solar-powered sump pumps are eco-friendly since they only need sunlight work. Since they don’t release any dangerous substances, they are some of the safest to use.
- Solar-powered pumps are very economical. They save on fuel, repair, and maintenance, and are convenient to use in many different circumstances.
How Solar Powered Sump Pumps Work
As stated earlier, it operates just like every other pump system principle. The primary difference is that a solar-powered system uses renewable, solar energy. Once the sunlight shines over the panel, it begins producing direct current to power the pump. Still, some motors require alternate current, so in order to connect a motor like this to a solar panel, you will need an inverter.
What Is a Pump Controller?
The Solar Pump Controller is an electrical system used to control the circulating pump to absorb the heat coming off of the panels. This process also prevents the system from overheating by having the controller circulate the pump and move the fluid through the panels once the heat is available in the panels.
Should I Use a Battery?
Usually, a solar system won’t need one, especially if you have a place to store the water. That being said, if they have high usage and need to pump continuously, users should have a battery incorporated with their system.
Why Solar-Powered Sump Pumps?
Human beings have used various technologies since medieval times. Throughout history, the most innovative creation was a windmill, and after that came the grid connection. As new technologies have rapidly advanced, technologists are now looking at ways to draw less electricity from the grid. Energy from the sun is a great choice, and solar power helps to generate sunlight electricity.
Here are the benefits of using sun power:
- Sump pumps with solar panels have low maintenance costs, and it’s easy to maintain them.
- People could save even more money since they will pay much less for their electricity bills.
- In rural places where the main power line link is time-consuming and expensive, you can put the panels to generate your own electricity.
- There are no continuing maintenance costs after the initial deployment costs.
- The factory uses modular components to produce a solar-powered sump pump, so the components can be easily replaced and upgraded
- Installation doesn’t take more than two days.
Submersible vs. External – Differences
A submersible pump is “submerged below the water.” This phrase means that they must always be operating under the surface because they are mainly used for extraction from wells and boreholes. External pumps would need to remain above the water with their whole system connected by a pipe to any water source nearby. Typically, this would be a river, lake, or pond.
External pumps can’t operate in depths of more than 60 meters. The main difference between these different categories of pumps is that a submersible will be located deep below the ground. External versions are used to pump water from not more than 25 meters and are usually located on the ground to move water through pipes.
Solar Pump vs. Normal Pump
Some of the devices are custom built after a great deal of thought was used in designing how a pump will lift water from a set depth with differing energy quantities. There are several solar models and product lines that found a way to achieve this goal. It is possible to use a pump not powered by solar energy, but you probably won’t be able to perform well. To make sure you can, you need to supply the unit with steady frequency and nameplate voltage.
Solar sump pumps also provide the benefit of using direct photovoltaic electricity for pumping. Some of these devices have a direct current motor, but it’s not unusual for the DC motor to employ a linear current converter to get the most energy when the sun doesn’t shine at its top level.
Other models use a helical rotor pump configuration powered by a DC or AC engine that has a regulator to handle different voltage conditions. While other pumps are using multiple stages, centrifugal pumps are intended to create a priority to head production over a wide range of speeds.
The centrifugal units could be powered via a DC or AC engine since all you need is a regulator. It will account for different voltage conditions and stop the pump if it can’t reach the required low-speed velocity.
Max Flow Rate
Two things determine the flow rate of drawn water from a well. The first one is the PV array that converts solar power into direct current. The second determiner is what intensity of the energy is available. A maximum hourly flow rate is around 2000 liters, but this number can vary, depending on the model. This is the most common rate you’ll find in today’s top-rated solar-powered pump products.
Wattage
The wattage varies as well, but the approximate value is around 50W. Classic pumps can range from 20 watts to 160 watts. Measure the wattage of a solar water sump pump and calculate how many hours a week it operates. After this, multiply it according to how many weeks a year, and divide it by 1000. It will give the number of kilowatt-hours the motor uses.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- The total cost of the fuel is zero. Solar panels provide electricity for a solar sump pump. When you’ve got a solar panel, all the power you can get directly from the sun is available and free! It is a big improvement over the fossil fuel version that makes you purchase gasoline continually. Fuel always adds considerable costs to irrigating crops.
- Solar-powered water pump requires less maintenance and labor. These pumps will potentially decrease the amount of time and labor required to irrigate the fields. Just attach it to the preferred irrigation method, switch on the sump pump, and watch the magic happen. Solar sump pumps require minimal labor and less maintenance than traditional models.
- These have a great warranty period. Most other sump pump styles require a great deal of servicing, maintenance, and repairs.
- Eco-friendly. Solar devices are sustainable and also use renewable sources of energy because they don’t produce harmful pollutants while keeping the air and soil clean on your farm.
Cons
- Solar panels can’t pump when it’s dark. We’ve just been thinking about how awesome they are, but they still need energy from the sun to be able to operate. Whether you’d like to fertilize early in the morning or late at night, you can find there isn’t enough solar energy to function properly. You can solve this problem by getting the water tank.
- High upfront price. One of the main problems is the price. You are supposed to buy panels and a pump at the same time, but this can be a bit pricey and is often a barrier to many farmers despite being an ideal long-term solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find answers to some of the most common questions we hear about solar-powered sump pumps. This section should dispel any doubts you have about these products and help you better understand the technology behind them.
What Are Solar-Powered Water Pumps?
These are pumping systems similar to standard gas-powered methods, except you will use the sun to power up, instead of electricity. These systems usually contain motor pumps, inverter batteries, and, of course, solar panels.
Be aware that the inverter is not always required. Only devices that need AC have an inverter, while DC pumps don’t have or need one.
Can I Relocate the Pump Once I Set It Up?
Yes, relocating the water pumps is an option, but the process to do so is not the easiest if you have a larger model. Relocating larger units is an expensive and complex process. You’ll have no trouble relocating a water pump if you own a small one.
Which Solar Powered Water Pump System Is Better, DC or AC?
DC units can provide higher efficiency, and they don’t require an inverter to operate, so that’s an advantage. On the other hand, DC units cost much more and maintenance and repair are more challenging. This is due to the lack of service centers in remote and rural areas.
Will a Solar System Operate on Gloomy and Foggy Days?
No, it won’t. The absence of a sunny day affects the operation of solar water pumps. On these kind of gloomy days, your pump could be supplied with a hybrid power source. The unit is connected to either a state electrical grid or a diesel generator but requires careful modification of the device. However, such a configuration should always be created after discussing it with a solar sump pump manufacturer.
If I Use a Solar Panel As an Energy Source, Do I Need Batteries As Well?
Usually, a solar pump system won’t need batteries, particularly if it has a place to store the water. Let’s say that people have high usage and do need to pump water constantly. In this case, they must have batteries incorporated with their system.
Conclusion
These solar-powered water pumps can help irrigate your yard or garden even during the summer. They can save you a huge amount of energy in the long term, and unlike their conventional electrical counterparts, solar-powered devices are ecologically-friendly.
All in all, they are very easy to install and provide a continuous supply for a variety of needs, making it ideal for using natural sunlight to transfer water wherever you need it.