What’s an Irrigation Pump?
An irrigation pump or sprinkler pump is a device that uses an electric motor to transport water from a water source to an irrigation system for lawns, gardens or crops. Irrigation water pumps are typically a necessity for irrigation systems that aren’t connected to a municipal water system but might also be helpful for improving water pressure if you get water from a municipal source. While the term irrigation pump can refer to a water pump for home, commercial or agricultural use, a lawn pump is a water pump designed primarily for home use. Keep in mind:
- Most home irrigation pumps are electric, so they need an electrical circuit to work.
- These pumps require a nearby body of water or well with minimal debris and sediment.
Make sure the pump you choose is suitable for your application. Follow local codes and the manufacturer's instructions for use and safety.
Three Main Types of Irrigation Pumps
While several types of gas and electric pumps can deliver water for irrigation systems, there are three main types of irrigation pumps common for home use:
- Surface centrifugal pumps
- Jet pumps
- Submersible pumps
These pumps have a similar basic operation. A motor turns an impeller, creating centrifugal force to pull or push water from the source and deliver it for distribution. However, the three types have different features and capabilities.
Surface Centrifugal Pump
Surface centrifugal pumps are the most common types of irrigation or lawn pump for residential use.
- This type of pump sits above a water source, such as a lake or reservoir, with a suction pipe running into the water.
- A surface centrifugal pump typically needs to be primed — filled with water — prior to use.
- A self-priming surface centrifugal pump holds water so it can start pumping quickly.
- This pump type is often less expensive than comparable jet and submersible pumps.
- A surface centrifugal pump is less efficient and capable than other types.
Jet Pump
Jet pumps are similar to surface centrifugal pumps but have an internal Venturi ejector component that increases the velocity of the water, creating a low-pressure effect to improve suction.
- A jet pump sits above a well and pulls water up through a pipe.
- This type of irrigation pump usually requires manual priming.
- A shallow-well jet pump has a built-in Venturi ejector that allows it to pull water from depths up to 25 feet.
- A deep-well jet pump uses an in-well ejector to pull water from depths of 25 feet or more, depending on the model.
- A convertible jet pump can function as a shallow- or deep-well pump, depending on the configuration.
- While the Venturi ejector increases pumping depth, it reduces the flow rate of the pump.
Submersible Water Pump
Submersible pumps include sump pumps and utility pumps, but many are also suitable for irrigation.
- A submersible pump is immersed in a water source and doesn’t require priming.
- Many types can deliver water from reservoirs and natural bodies of water.
- Some operate as submersible well pumps, supplying water from a residential well.
- A submersible pump pushes water from a source, a process that’s more efficient than the suction action of pumps that pull water.
- The surrounding water cools a submersible pump and reduces noise.
- Submersible pumps are usually more expensive than jet and surface centrifugal pumps.
Irrigation Pump Specifications
- Lift: The lift of a pump tells you the height the pump can raise the water from the water supply.
- Max Head: The max head or head-in-feet is the vertical height the pump can deliver the water.
- Pounds per square inch (PSI): The PSI is the amount of water pressure the pump creates and is directly related to the max head.
- Gallons per minute (GPM): The GPM value tells you the flow rate of the water through the pump.
- Horsepower (HP): A pump with higher horsepower can move water more effectively.
All of these factors are related. Be sure the pump can lift water to the height necessary for your irrigation system while supplying the correct amount of water and pressure for all your sprinkler heads.
Key Points for Comparing Irrigation Pumps
Give your lawn and garden water for green grass and bountiful crops by powering your sprinkler system with the right irrigation pump. Here’s what you need to keep in mind while you shop:
- Surface centrifugal pumps, jet pumps and submersible pumps are three common types of irrigation pumps.
- Surface centrifugal pumps are above-ground pumps that use suction to pull water from lakes, reservoirs and other bodies of water.
- Jet pumps are similar to surface centrifugal pumps but have a Venturi ejector that allows them to pull water from greater depths.
- Submersible pumps operate below the water surface and push water, running more efficiently than suction pumps.
- Higher ratings for lift, max head, gallons per minute, pounds per square inch and horsepower indicate a more capable pump, but you must match them to your irrigation system.
Shop Lowes.com for different types of irrigation pumps to find the right model for your irrigation system. Or stop by your local Lowe’s and talk to a Lowe’s Red Vest associate about your irrigation needs. They can help you choose the right water pump and make sure you have the tools and materials you need to keep your irrigation system running efficiently.
Irrigation Pump FAQ
Use the answers to these questions to determine your irrigation pump needs.
Do I Need an Irrigation Pump if I’m on a City Water System?
You often don’t need an irrigation pump if you’re on a municipal water system. However, if your water pressure is too low to operate your sprinkler system effectively, and if local codes allow it, an irrigation pump can boost the pressure.
What’s a Lawn Pump?
The term lawn pump refers to irrigation pumps that are designed for home sprinkler systems. On Lowes.com, lawn pumps are typically surface centrifugal pumps.
What’s a Suction Pump?
A suction pump is any type of pump that pulls water from a source instead of pushing it. Above-ground pumps that operate with a hose running to the water source are suction pumps.