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Solar pumps are an increasingly popular choice for farmers who want to reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources. But with so many different options on the market, it can be difficult to know which pump is right for your farm. In this guide, we will discuss the most important factors to consider when choosing a solar pump for irrigation, so you can be sure to make the best investment for your needs
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Solar Pump for irrigation
- The size of your land: The amount of land you need to irrigate will determine the size and power of the pump you need.
- The crops you grow: Different crops have different water needs. Be sure to choose a pump that can deliver the right amount of water for the crops you are growing.
- The amount of sun you get: The amount of sunlight your farm receives will affect the performance of your solar pump. Choose a pump that is designed for your specific climate.
- The type of pump you choose: There are two main types of solar pumps: surface pumps and submersible pumps. Surface pumps are less expensive, but they are not as powerful as submersible pumps. Submersible pumps are more expensive, but they are more efficient and can handle deeper wells.
- The amount of water you need: The amount of water you need will depend on the size of your land, the crops you grow, and the amount of sun you get. Use the chart in the article to estimate your water needs.
How to determine your water requirements
Determining your water needs involves considering the evolving factors throughout the years on your farm. To appropriately gauge the size of your irrigation pump, it’s advisable to perform a straightforward calculation based on the maximum water requirement during the growing season.
Formula:
Area of the land requiring irrigation multiplied by Crop water requirement = volume of water needed
NB: If you haven’t finalized your crop choices, a reasonable assumption for the average crop water requirement is approximately 5mm.
What influences the flow rate of water from your hose pipe?
- Total lift or slope of the land: The vertical distance the pump must elevate water affects its efficiency. Greater elevation requires more energy for lifting, resulting in a reduced capacity to pump water to that height.
- 2. Sunshine levels (climate): The intensity of sunlight impacts the energy available for solar panels to convert into pumping energy. Irrigating during low-sunlight periods or cloudy days limits the solar pump’s ability to extract as much water.
- Pipe sizes (backpressure): Backpressure, caused by water passing through constricted spaces, diminishes the water output. The use of undersized hosepipes or hoses with kinks or blockages increases backpressure, requiring more energy to force water through restricted areas.
In the solar pump user manual, recommended pipe sizes are provided for optimal efficiency based on your situation. Familiarizing yourself with this information ensures the pump operates at its best.
- Pump efficiency: Various pump designs exhibit varying levels of efficiency. Pumps with lower efficiency waste more energy per liter of water pumped, affecting overall performance. Although pump efficiency may not be prominently featured in marketing materials, it’s essential to inquire about it from your pump dealer, especially in relation to the required solar PV capacity.
- Amount of solar PV: Increasing the solar PV capacity connected to the pump enhances the flow rate by providing more energy for water pumping.
However, caution is advised, as simply adding more solar PV does not necessarily guarantee a higher flow rate. Some low-efficiency solar pumps compensate for energy losses by incorporating extra PV capacity, leading to increased costs without commensurate benefits.
- Don’t be misled by HP: The rated horsepower (HP) of pumps can be deceptive. In the context of solar pumps, the stated HP often refers to the maximum solar panel capacity compatible with the system. It’s important to consider both HP and stated flow rates, as an inefficient pump consuming more energy may not necessarily result in a higher flow rate. Always verify both specifications for accurate performance assessment.
What flow rates mean for irrigation on your farm :
Additional Tips
- Read reviews of different solar pump brands.
- Consider the warranty on the pump.
- Factor in the cost of installation and maintenance.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can be sure to choose the right solar pump for irrigation in your farm. Solar pumps are a great investment that can save you money on energy costs and help you to grow healthy crops
Have a look at our solar pumps and select the best fit for you. https://kenyasolarinstallers.co.ke/product-category/solar-products/solar-pump/
