PumpsAnd Controllers

Submersible pumps sit within the water source itself — a borehole, sump or tank — and are pushed rather than pulled, making them well suited to deep extraction and groundwater work. Surface-mounted (centrifugal) pumps sit outside the liquid and are generally easier to access for maintenance, making them a good choice for boosting pressure from an above-ground tank or mains supply. The right option depends on suction depth, access for servicing and how the pump will be used.

Sizing comes down to flow rate (litres per minute or per hour) and total head — the vertical lift plus any friction losses through pipework, fittings and bends. Undersizing leaves you with poor pressure or flow, while oversizing wastes energy and can shorten the pump's working life. If you're unsure, measure your pipe run length, vertical rise and typical demand before choosing, or get in touch with our team for guidance.

A controller manages when the pump switches on and off, usually in response to water level, pressure or demand, protecting the pump from running dry or cycling excessively. Many also provide fault alarms, overload protection and remote monitoring, which is particularly useful for unattended installations like boreholes or sewage pumping stations. Matching the controller to the pump's motor type and duty is essential for reliable operation.

This depends entirely on the pump type — clean water pumps are designed for potable or surface water only and will clog or fail quickly if used on foul water. For sewage, effluent or greywater applications you need a dedicated foul water or macerator pump, built with wear-resistant components and a free passage rated to handle solids. Always check the pump's stated application before installing it on anything other than clean water.

Smaller domestic pumps typically run on a standard single-phase 230V supply, while larger commercial or agricultural pumps often require three-phase power. All permanent installations should be wired via a qualified electrician, with appropriate isolation, RCD protection and weatherproof connections where the pump is located outdoors or below ground. Check the pump's specification sheet for exact load and cabling requirements before you install.

Routine checks — inspecting seals, impellers and non-return valves, and clearing any debris from intake strainers — will keep most pumps running reliably for years. Submersible pumps used in boreholes or sumps should be periodically lifted and inspected, while controllers benefit from a check of float switches, sensors and electrical connections. Sticking to the manufacturer's service schedule is the best way to avoid unexpected downtime, particularly on continuously running or unattended systems.