Submersible vs Surface Pumps: Which One Do I Need?
Choosing between a submersible pump and a surface pump depends mainly on where your water is located, how deep you need to pump from, and the flow and pressure your application requires.
Both types of pumps have their advantages, but choosing the wrong one can result in poor performance and unnecessary running costs.
What Is a Submersible Pump?
A submersible pump is installed underwater, with the pump and motor designed to operate while submerged.
They are commonly used for:
- Boreholes and wells
- Water tanks and reservoirs
- Dewatering
- Drainage
- Deep-water applications
For boreholes, submersible pumps are particularly effective because they push water to the surface rather than relying on suction to lift it.
What Is a Surface Pump?
A surface pump is installed above the water source and draws water through an inlet pipe.
They are commonly used for:
- Boosting household water pressure
- Pumping from storage tanks
- Irrigation
- Swimming pools
- Transfer between tanks
- Shallow wells and water sources
Surface pumps are generally easier to access for inspection and maintenance because the pump is above ground.
Which One Should You Choose?
As a general rule:
Choose a submersible pump when:
The water source is deep, such as a borehole, or the pump needs to operate underwater.
Choose a surface pump when:
The water source is accessible and relatively close to the pump, such as a storage tank or shallow water source.
Don't Forget the Pump Duty
The most important part of pump selection isn't simply choosing submersible or surface.
You need to determine the required:
- Flow rate – how much water you need
- Total head – how high and how far the water must be pumped
- Pressure – the pressure required at the outlet
- Pipe diameter and length
- Water source and water level
For example, a borehole pump needs to be selected according to the dynamic water level, borehole yield, required flow and total dynamic head, not just the depth of the borehole.
The Bottom Line
Neither pump type is automatically better. The correct choice depends on your specific installation.
A submersible pump is generally the better solution for deep water sources, while a surface pump is often ideal for tanks, boosting and shallow water applications.
Choosing the correct pump size and type will give you better pressure, improved efficiency and longer equipment life.
Not sure which pump you need? Contact SuperPump Water Pumps with your water source, required flow and installation details, and our team can help you select the right pump for the job.
