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Introduction
Solar-powered borehole pumps are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to provide a reliable and sustainable water supply without relying on fossil fuels or electricity grids. These pumps use solar energy to extract water from underground sources, making them an ideal solution for areas with limited access to electricity or those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. This blog will equip you with what you need to know when selecting a solar pump for your borehole.
Advantages of using solar water pumps in Kenya
There are many benefits that come with investing in a solar water pump. Below are some of them;
Free Fuel: Unlike traditional diesel pumps that require constant fuel refills, solar pumps run entirely on sunshine. This translates to zero running costs once the initial investment is made. For small-scale farmers and businesses, this means more profit and improved financial sustainability.
Eco-Friendly : Solar pumps significantly reduce your carbon footprint by removing the need for fossil fuels, This helps combat climate change and contributes to a cleaner environment.
Minimal Maintenance: Solar pumps require minimal maintenance due to their reliance on clean energy. There are no messy filters to change, oil levels to monitor, or tanks to clean. This easy operation makes them suitable for users of all technical backgrounds.
They are most productive at the times of need – Solar pumps operate most efficiently during sunny periods, which often coincides with peak water demand for livestock and irrigation. This harmony ensures water availability exactly when needed.
They are ideal for remote areas – for people living in very remote areas where they do not have easy access to buy fuel, a solar water pump is an ideal investment. As long as the sun shines, these pumps keep the water flowing, providing a dependable source for daily needs.
Factors to consider when buying a solar water pump for your borehole
When selecting a solar-powered borehole pump, there are several factors to consider, including the depth of the borehole, the water flow rate required, and the amount of sunlight available. The pump should be selected based on the head and flow calculations, which determine the amount of pressure and flow required to meet the water needs for the application. An in-depth description of the factors to consider are as follows:
Borehole Depth and Water Needs
First, you need to consider the depth of your borehole and the amount of water you require. Deeper boreholes require a pump that can generate enough pressure to bring water to the surface. Similarly, higher water flow rates demand a more powerful pump.
Head and flow calculations determine the pressure and flow required to size the pump for your specific application. The main parameters required to perform the calculations are :The total dynamic head, the static lift, the dynamic water level and the consumption rate per day(flow per day) . However, consulting a qualified professional to conduct these calculations is highly recommended.
Sunshine intensity
Since the sun fuels your pump, the amount of sunlight available in your location plays a vital role. Areas with abundant sunshine allow for a wider range of pump options. However, if sunshine is limited, you might need a more robust pump system or consider additional battery storage to ensure consistent water access.
Time of Use
If you need the pump to operate at night, consider a hybrid function pump with a backup power supply.
Pump design
The quality of materials used in the pump’s construction directly impacts its durability and longevity. Look for pumps made from corrosion-resistant and robust materials to withstand the demands of continuous use.
Installation Area and Location
Where you install the pump affects material costs. Always aim to minimize the use of extra materials like cables and pipes.
Warranty and After-Sales Support
A solid warranty provides peace of mind, protecting you in case of unexpected malfunctions. Furthermore, readily available after-sales support ensures prompt assistance if any issues arise. Reliable manufacturers prioritize customer satisfaction and should offer dependable support services.
Reviews
Customer feedback is a good source of genuine information, reviews and ratings can reveal hidden details about products that descriptions might overlook.
How to calculate the number of solar panels for a water pump
To calculate the number of solar panels needed for a water pump, you will need to consider several factors. Below are the steps to follow.
- Determine the power rating of the water pump: Start by finding the pump’s power consumption in watts (W). This information should be in the user manual or provided by the manufacturer.
- Determine Daily Energy Needs: To calculate the total energy needed per day, multiply the pump’s wattage by the number of hours it will operate daily. For example, a 700W pump running for 8 hours requires 5,600 watt-hours (Wh) per day.
- Determine the solar panel capacity : Solar panels have a capacity measured in watts (W). To choose panels that can generate enough power to meet your pump’s daily needs, divide the total daily energy required by the average daily sunlight hours. For example, if you need 5,600 Wh per day with 6 hours of sunlight, you’d need a solar panel capacity of around 940 watts.
- Calculate the number of solar panels : Now that you know the required capacity, divide it by the individual capacity of each solar panel (found in the panel specifications). For example, if each panel is 200 watts, you’d need 5 panels to reach a total capacity of 940 watts.
Important Note: This is an estimate. Factors like climate, shading, and panel efficiency can influence the actual number of panels needed. For the most accurate sizing, consulting a solar professional is recommended.
Where to buy good deep well solar pumps in Kenya
Davis and Shirtliff
Davis and Shirtliff is a seasoned company specializing in solar pumps . Founded in 1946, the company boasts a vast experience in the sector. https://www.davisandshirtliff.com/shop/Solar-Pumps
Kenya solar installers
This is a nascent company Founded in November 2023 by a group of young professional Kenyans. Kenya solar installers stands out because of their Cost-effective solutions which ensures a lot of Kenyans can afford to go green. They also have one of the most qualified team of installers and salesmen in the country. https://kenyasolarinstallers.co.ke/product-category/solar-products/solar-pump/
Macire Limited
Locally owned and operated, Macire Limited is a leading supplier of Energy and Irrigation Equipment, Solar and Tools in the East African region. Their business activities are focused on seven principal product sectors – Water Pumps, Boreholes Solutions, Swimming Pools, Water Treatment, Generators, Solar Solutions and Irrigation.
Conclusion
In summary, selecting a solar-powered borehole pump requires careful consideration. By understanding the key factors like borehole depth, water needs, sunlight intensity, time of use, Installation Location, reviews and pump design, and after-sales support, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the pump that perfectly matches your requirements. By carefully selecting the right solar-powered pump for your borehole, users can enjoy a reliable and sustainable water supply for years to come.
