Unlike the traditional water pump, solar water pumps operate off-grid. That is, they are stand-alone devices that use solar panel-generated energy to pump water. Interestingly, you can use these solar devices for swimming pools, boreholes, wells, irrigation, rain barrels, high-rise buildings, and more.
It doesn’t matter whether you need water for livestock, crop irrigation, drinking, or cooking; you will find these solar water pumps always helpful. Like most solar devices, solar water pumps are relatively easy to set up. They are inexpensive and can help you to spend less on electricity bills.
However, it’s a bit challenging to pick the perfect solar water pump that fits your need. There are several brands of solar water pump out there with different specifications. And without the right information, you may end up buying the wrong product. So, in this article, we have reviewed the 10 best solar water pumps in the market today.
Editor’s Picks
Before we review each product, let’s quickly check the best three solar water pumps in their respective categories.
The ECO-WORTHY 100W Solar Fountain Pump Kit is overall the best solar water pump on our list. The water pump features a high, energy-efficient 100W solar panel. The motor operates in four different modes drawing variable voltages. A PWM charge controller and an LCD are also provided with this kit to monitor these variations. The 12V motor has the power to draw 1100 gallons of water in just an hour, making this product perfect for watering large areas of land. The versatility of this unique solar water pump makes it outstanding in the market.
PWS 1.6HP solar water pump is the most powerful water pump on this list. It can draw 135 gallons per minute, allowing you to water large acres of land in a quick time frame. An MPPT charge controller regulates this device to safeguard the motor from an electrical malfunction. A water shortage sensor is also included in the water pump to regulate the automatic operation of this device.
The ECO-WORTHY 12v Solar Water Pump System offers the best price for its amazing feature and high performance. It’s relatively affordable, easy to maintain, and very durable. This solar water pump features a 100W solar panel and a 12V DC submersible pump. It is equally brilliant for both outdoor and home-based applications. Also, it is extremely lightweight and durable.
How Does A Solar Water Pump Work?
The majority of the kits we’ve listed here are submersible or pool water pumps. There are no suction pumps on the list (pumps which sit outside of the water and use suction to move it). This is largely because submersible pumps are today’s preferred products, being generally more powerful than their un-submerged cousins. In a solar pool pump kit, you’ll receive solar panels, cabling to connect them to a solar charger, and then to the pump itself, and (if you’re lucky) tubing through which to pump the water and a water sensor to help control the flow.
Let’s start with the pump. A submersible pump is a durable, metal or plastic object which is placed deep within the water (be it a well, pool, or flooded area). Inside the waterproof casing is housed a motor and a set of impellers. As water filters in through holes in the pump, the motor (powered by solar-generated electricity) drives the impellers, which push this water up through the connected tubing and to your desired destination. If the pump is a pool pump, rather than a submersible one, it essentially works the same: water is filtered through a debris-catching basket toward impellers, which then drive the water out of the pump to be recycled back into the pool (sometimes first passing through chlorinators).
If the pump comes with a water sensor or two, these are placed in the origin source of the water, and the destination source, to monitor levels and ensure that the origin is not depleted too far, nor the destination overfilled.
But how do solar panels power the water pump? Solar panels are weatherproof frames housing many smaller solar cells. These cells, comprised of layers of specialised silicon, react both chemically and physically when exposed to direct sunlight. The reaction (called the ‘photovoltaic effect’) generates volts of DC electricity through the forced displacement of electrons from one silicon layer to another. It is cyclical and repeats itself for as long as a panel is exposed to direct sunlight. This electricity can then either be stored in a battery for later use, or fed directly into the pump’s motor, powering the pump for as long as the daylight hours last.
A solar water pump can be used to recycle swimming pools, pump water from a well, clear a flooded area, and much more. They are entirely off grid and require only that the solar panels be mounted and positioned somewhere that they will receive maximum exposure to sunlight on a daily basis.
Pros and Cons of Solar Water Pumps
Let us take a brief look at some of the most important pros and cons associated with solar power, and more specifically, solar water pumps.
Pros:
- Off-grid. No matter how near or far you are to grid electricity, a solar water pump can do what it’s designed to without needing any grid-connection.
- Free electricity. Pumping water, such as in swimming pools, is a daily job, and one which can be very costly. Renewable energy costs nothing post-setup, and will help to reduce your energy bills.
- Green energy. One of the most important benefits of using alternative energy products is that they produce no nasty carbon emissions, meaning they don’t damage the earth as they operate.
- Powerful pumping. Solar energy is just as powerful as grid-tied electricity, meaning that these pumps can achieve high maximum lifts and flow rates.
- Versatile. As we stated above, a solar water pump can be put to use in any number of situations. Moreover, they are perfect in an emergency, such as during a storm, as can operate even during a power outage.
Cons:
- Sunlight dependent. Solar technology requires sunlight in order to function. Without it – as during winter months in some areas, and during overcast or low-light weather conditions – your solar panels will not generate much electricity, and your pump will underperform.
- Expensive. You’ll end up saving plenty of money on energy bills once your array is set up, however there’s no denying that the initial cost of these kits can be very high.
- No solar panels. Many kits do come with panels included, but unfortunately just as many don’t. That means an added cost, and extra time spent researching which panels you need to suit your pump.
The Best Solar Water Pumps Reviewed
The following are the top 10 solar water pumps currently available in the market. Let’s find the one that’s perfect for your needs.
#1. ECO-WORTHY 100W 12V Solar Water Pump Kit
- Brand: ECO-WORTHY
- Ideal solar water pump solution for remote watering without electric power
- Large delivery volume
- High delivery pressure
- Aimed at the maximum class of solar water pump
- Compact size, lightweight, and easy carrying
The ECOWORHTY solar pump kit is an exceptional water pump. It features a 100W solar panel and a 12V water pump with a water flow speed of 1110 gallons per hour. This motor can operate in four different modes that can be monitored with the help of an LCD provided with the water pump. This solar kit also contains a PWM charge controller, critical for voltage management across the solar system. This water pump is perfect for watering large areas of land in a quick time frame.
This solar pump doesn’t require any battery as it operates directly on sunlight. Furthermore, it’s easy to set up as it comes with a user manual that gives detailed instructions on installing the complete pump kit. Interestingly, you don’t need to wire or refill this solar water pump. All you need is to install the panels in a place where they can easily be exposed to the sun.
Pros:
- Easy setup
- Powerful solar panels
- Four working Modes
- PWM Charge Controller
Cons:
- No warranty
#2. PWS 1.6Hp Solar Powered Swimming Pool Pump
- Brand: PWS
- Durable for home and industrial use
- High energy conversion rate
- MPPT Controller
When it comes to high-performing solar water pumps, PWS is a brand to consider. Water pumps from this brand are reliable, strong, and function effectively. The PWS 1.6HP solar water pump is the most powerful device on this list. It is a high-end product that is designed to perform at extreme levels. It can draw water at an incredible speed of 136 gallons per minute. It has a water shortage sensor that automatically stops the device from operating once it recognizes that the header tank is full.
This device is solar-powered, though solar panels are not included in the package. You’ll have to spend extra money on purchasing powerful solar panels that can generate enough electricity for this water pump. However, an MPPT charge controller is included in the package for proper voltage flow within the system. The installation is beginner-friendly as it comes with a user manual on how to set it up and disassemble it for clean up.
Pros:
- Extremely powerful
- MPPT charge Controller
- Water shortage sensor
- Easy installation
Cons:
- No solar panels included
- Expensive
#3. PWS 540W 48V Submersible Solar Water Pump Kit
- Brand: PWS
- Essential parameter
- Solar Powered
- Water storage sensors
- MPPT controller
The PWS Solar Water Pump is another great choice for a water pump with wide application. It is yet another powerful device with a 0.7HP motor. This motor operates directly on solar power without the need for extra batteries. However, you can still connect it with batteries if you find the need in cloudy conditions. Note that neither a solar panel nor any battery is included in this package. You’ll have to purchase this equipment separately to complete the package. To safeguard the motor, an MPPT charge controller is included in the package as it operates automatically with the help of a water shortage sensor.
And the setup? It’s beginner-friendly; you don’t need technical knowledge to install the pump. All you need to do is read the user’s manual carefully for step-by-step instructions on setting it up.
Pros:
- Extremely powerful
- MPPT charge Controller
- Water shortage sensor
- Easy installation
Cons:
- No solar panels included
- Expensive
#4. ECO-WORTHY 12V Solar Water Pump System
- Brand: ECO-WORTHY
- Easy and convenient
- Excellent work in the seawater or sewage
- Light weight, easy carrying
The ECO-WORTHY 12V solar water system is a complete packet that is offered at a remarkable price. It contains a powerful polycrystalline solar panel and a power 12 DC motor. These two devices connect to provide you the most energy-efficient performance for drawing water in an eco-friendly manner.
This is a lightweight and durable product that is extremely weather-resistant. It has remarkable portability, something that is rarely seen in products in this category. This product is equally effective for home-based applications such as a submersible pump for daily usage or quickly filling up a swimming pool. What more can you expect from a product in a low-end price range?
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Energy efficient
- String and durable
- Easy to install
Cons:
- No battery backup
#5. ECO-WORTHY 100W 12V Solar Well Pump System
- Brand: ECO-WORTHY
- Stainless steel
- Corded Electric, Solar Powered, Battery Powered
- High Lift, Large Flow
- More Stable Flow
- Long Life of Service
This is yet another remarkable solar pump kit from ECO-WORTHY. It is a complete package. It contains a 100W solar panel composed of monocrystalline solar cells, which are the most energy-efficient cells engaged in generating maximum solar energy. The motor is also quite powerful. With a maximum lift of 230ft, it has a water flow rate of 3.2GPM.
Unlike many other products on this list, this solar kit comes with a 6AH 2 in 1 lithium battery. This is an intelligent battery that doesn’t require a charge controller for voltage management. The installation is easy as it comes with a user manual that clearly explains how to set up the pump. Lastly, 16ft cables are also provided for your convenience. It’s durable, reliable, and easy to position.
Pros:
- Energy efficient
- Powerful motor
- Powerful Battery
- Easy to set up
- Durable
Cons:
- Expensive
#6. Pumplus 100W 12VSolar Well Pump System
- Brand: Pumplus
- Extract Water From Deep Well
- Garden / Farmland Irrigation
- Animal Using Water / Tank Filling
- Water Lifting Work
If you need a solar water pump that can work continuously, even in cloudy weather conditions, the Pumplus Solar Solar Well Pump System is a great option for you. It has incredibly similar features to its earlier counterparts. The pump features a 100W solar panel, 6AH lithium 2 in 1 battery, high-quality monocrystalline solar panel, and long cables for convenient installation. The 100W solar panel allows the pump to produce 3.2 gallons of water per minute. The battery enables it to perform in cloudy conditions and nighttime. The installation process is easy; it is wireless and hassle-free. If the pump performs poorly within three months of buying it, you can return it and get your money back.
Pros:
- Energy efficient
- Powerful motor
- Powerful Battery
- Easy to set up
- Durable
Cons:
- Expensive
#7. Pumplus 12V Solar Water Pump Kit 100W Solar Panel
- Brand: Pumplus
- Wide Application
- Large Flow
- Lightweight Pump
- Updated 2.0 Controller
If you need a high-performing solar water pump that can move a large volume of water using solar energy, you will find this product handy. It features a 100W solar panel, a 12V submersible pump, and a pair of long cords from the solar panel to the pump. For managing and monitoring the water pump, a PWM charge controller is also included in the package, along with a 20 LCD.
Furthermore, the water pump has a long lifespan as it is designed with high-quality materials, durable, and relatively quiet during operation. The installation is easy as it comes with a user manual containing detailed instructions on installing the water pump.
Pros:
- 100W solar panel
- High-quality build
- PWM charge controller
- Easy to install
- Long lifespan
Cons:
- Expensive
#8. JENENSERIES DC 24V Solar Water Pump
- Brand: JENENSERIES
- Solar Powered
- Stainless Steel
- Intelligent Water Shortage Sensers
- Pump Motor
- High-quality controller
The JENENSERIES 24V DC is one of the best performing and highly durable pumps on this list. It is yet another powerful device featured on this list. This solar pump use NSK bearing with a permanent magnet brushless synchronous motor that automatically operates with the help of a water shortage sensor. An MPPT charge controller manipulates the voltage variation created by this sensor. The solar pumps operate directly on solar power, but you can also connect a backup battery if you are looking to use this device during nighttime. Because the pump is made with high-quality material, it’s durable and has an anti-corrosive ability.
Pros:
- Extremely powerful
- MPPT charge Controller
- Water shortage sensor
- Easy installation
Cons:
- No solar panels included
- Expensive
#9. Pumplus All In One 195W 12V Solar Well Pump
- Brand: Pumplus
- Aluminum
- Corded Electric
- Solar Powered
- Battery Powered
The Pumplus All In One solar-powered water pump is one of the newest products out there. As its name suggests, it’s an all-in-one package that’s highly effective in indoor and outdoor applications. The solar pump is eco-friendly and compact in size. It features a 195W solar panel, a motor with a max 3000 RPM speed, a 6Ah 2 in 1 battery, a pair of 16ft cables, and a charge controller. The solar panel produces maximum solar power that is saved by a high-capacity battery. You don’t have to worry about voltage mismanagement as a charge controller automatically regulates it. The pump is easy to set up as it comes with detailed user instructions on installing, maintaining, and disassembling it.
Pros:
- Energy efficient
- Powerful motor
- Powerful Battery
- Easy to set up
- Durable
Cons:
- Expensive
#10. PWS 24V Deep Well Submersible Solar Power Water Pump
- Brand: PWS
- Stainless steel
- Solar Powered
- Essential parameter
- Water storage sensors
- MPPT controller
PWS Submersible Solar Water Pump is the last solar-powered water pump on our list. It features a 24V 0.16HP DC motor that has a water flow rate of 5.7GPM. This motor is purely solar-powered. However, neither a solar panel nor any rechargeable backup battery is included in the package. You’ll have to spend some extra money to buy other essential equipment.
The motor is fully automatic, thanks to the integration of water shortage sensors. An MPPT charge controller is also present for safeguarding the entire solar system from short circuits. If you need a fairly high-performing solar pump that’s energy-efficient and easy to install, this is a perfect choice for you.
Pros:
- Powerful motor
- Water shortage sensors
- MPPT charge controller
- Easy to install
Cons:
- No battery backup
- No solar panel
Buyers Guide
Generally, solar water pumps are efficient, and you can use them for different applications. However, with several brands and features out there, choosing the solar water pump that suits your needs can be confusing.
So, before you finally make your decision to buy a solar water pump, here are a few things you need to consider:
Solar Panel
The solar panel is the primary factor you should consider before buying any solar-powered pump. It doesn’t matter whether the water pump has amazing features; if the solar panel is not efficient, it’s better not to buy it.
Pumping Power
The pumping power is another important factor to consider when buying a solar-powered pump. The pumping power of a solar water pump is a function of its flow rate and its efficiency; the better the pumping power, the better the water flow rate.
Cord Length
The pump’s cord length is another important factor to consider when buying a solar water pump. A lengthy cord enables you to place the pump in a dimly lit environment and position the panel for better exposure to sunlight.
Battery Backup
One thing with solar panels is that they can only supply energy when there’s sunlight. However, you may not be able to use your water pump during cloudy days. But with a battery backup, you can use your pump continuously, even during gloomy days and nights. Again, how long your water pump works during a cloudy day depends on the size and capacity of the battery.
Durability
Most times, the durability of these products depends on the materials used in designing them. While high quality and durable water pump may seem expensive initially, it’s a wise decision in the long run.
Final Verdict
The ECO-WORTHY 100W Solar Water Pump Kit is simply the best overall on this list. It has a powerful 100W solar panel that powers up a 12V water pump. The water pump can draw 1110 gallons of water, making it perfect for watering large acres of land quickly and effectively. Also, the motor can operate in four different modes that can be monitored with the help of anLCDy included in the package. A PWM charge controller is also included to safeguard the water kit from short circuits and negative polarity. All-in-in it’s a great product, a high-value provider, and a safe investment.
FAQs
Sure! Solar water pumps are great. They operate quietly and have enough energy to run smaller water fountains easily. You will find solar water pumps handy if you live in an area where there are sunnier days. Of course, it would always be nice to add a solar water pump to your garden pond.
The price of solar water pumps varies depending on their brands, their unique features, backup battery capacity, solar panel power, and other factors. Most of them are fairly priced, but it’s always good to be aware of what the features offered by the solar pump are worth.
It depends on the water pump wattage. For instance, if a panel produces 30 watts, and you have a water pump of 450 watts, you need 15 solar panels to run the pump. However, you need 5 solar panels to power a 100-watt water pump.
When choosing a solar water pump, you have to consider some important factors. Some of these factors are solar panel power, pumping power, cord length, battery backup, durability, etc.
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