Self-priming pumps are surface-mounted pumps, typically used for pumping water from wells or as part of domestic water systems. Their advantages include easy operation and affordability.
Self-priming pumps are primarily used for pumping water from wells, but also for boosting pressure in drinking water distribution systems. They are usually installed as part of a domestic water system, but are also suitable, for example, for swimming pool filtration systems.
Self-priming pumps are a specific category of surface centrifugal pumps. While a standard centrifugal pump requires the entire pipeline to be filled with water before operation, the self-priming type has a higher suction power and can automatically draw water with only the pump itself needing to be filled before first use.
Keep in mind that due to physical limitations, self-priming pumps cannot be used for pumping from depths greater than 8 meters. Another potential issue with self-priming pumps is their sensitivity to running dry, which can cause rapid damage. Most pumps in our range are therefore equipped with automatic protection that disconnects the pump in case of water shortage to prevent damage.
When used correctly, self-priming pumps are a reliable and affordable solution for a wide range of applications, such as in gardens and family homes.
As with other pumps, it is crucial to consider the amount of liquid, the height, and the distance from which it will be pumped, namely:
We also recommend considering whether the pump is equipped with dry run protection. Some products even include a thermal fuse to prevent motor overheating. Depending on the pump's location, its material (such as corrosion-resistant stainless steel) or degree of protection may also play a role.
A standalone pump usually does not include any pumping control system. If plugged into a socket, it always runs at full power. For simple applications - such as watering or pool filtration - the pump can be used without additional control.
For user comfort, we recommend equipping the pump with a pressure or flow switch (PM1, PM2, HiControl, ...). The pump then activates whenever the user starts drawing water - for example, by turning on a tap. Such a solution is particularly suitable for watering, where there is a piece of pipe and a control valve connected to a hose behind the pump. Pressurizing the hose itself would be undesirable, as it would not be possible to coil it.
For domestic drinking water supply, it is advisable to complement a self-priming pump with a pressure switch and a pressure tank, effectively creating a domestic water system.
Some products in our range already include a pressure switch and automatically start the pump when water is drawn. We also supply self-priming pumps with a frequency converter, capable of regulating power based on the required demand.
The pumps in our range are usually connected directly to a standard 220V electrical socket.
Special attention should be paid to the material used for the suction pipe, which must not shrink. If you use a standard garden hose, the water system will create a vacuum during suction, which would deform and block a regular hose. Therefore, we recommend purchasing a special suction hose, which includes a suction basket.
No, self-priming pumps do not include any filtration. For coarser water cleaning from larger debris (such as leaves or stones), we recommend suction baskets, which are placed at the end of the suction hose directly into the well.
The placement of additional filtration is debatable. A filter on the suction side of the pump can cause such a loss that the pump may not have sufficient suction power to pump. Simply put: when pumping from a depth of two meters, it is not a problem to place a filter in the well. If the water is at 7 meters, the filter could act as a significant obstacle, and pumping might not occur at all.
The placement will always depend on the intended use. It is essential to protect the pump against freezing. We also recommend protecting it from rain, even though pumps are usually protected against moisture.