Surface Water Pumps

About Surface Water Pumps

Surface water pumps are essential tools designed to move large volumes of clean or slightly contaminated water from one location to another without being submerged. Unlike submersible pumps, these units sit above water level and draw liquid through an inlet hose, making them ideal for irrigation, water transfer, pressure boosting, and emergency drainage applications. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of surface water pumps from trusted brands including Draper, Sealey, Einhell, and Hozelock, catering to both professional tradespeople and dedicated DIY enthusiasts.

Our selection includes standard surface pumps for garden irrigation and water transfer, multi-stage models for higher pressure applications, booster pumps to increase mains water pressure, and petrol-powered trash pumps capable of handling water containing debris. Available in 240v electric, cordless battery-powered, and petrol variants, these pumps deliver flow rates from 3,000 to over 20,000 litres per hour, with options featuring stainless steel construction for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance.

Applications

Surface water pumps serve numerous purposes across various trades and applications:

• Landscapers and groundworkers – irrigation systems, water feature installation, and site drainage
• Agricultural workers – crop irrigation, livestock watering, and water transfer between tanks
• Plumbers and heating engineers – pressure boosting for domestic water systems and heating installations
• Property maintenance professionals – emergency flood response, cellar drainage, and swimming pool emptying
• Construction sites – dewatering excavations, dust suppression, and general water transfer
• Homeowners and gardeners – garden irrigation, pond filling, rainwater harvesting systems, and pressure washing supply
• Car wash and valeting businesses – water supply and pressure systems

Choosing The Right Surface Water Pumps

Selecting the appropriate surface water pump requires consideration of several key factors:

• Flow rate requirements – measured in litres per hour (l/h), determine how much water you need to move within a given timeframe
• Head height and pressure – the vertical distance and pressure required to deliver water to its destination; multi-stage pumps offer superior pressure performance
• Power source – 240v mains electric for stationary applications with power access, cordless for portability, or petrol models for remote locations and higher power demands
• Water quality – standard surface pumps suit clean water; trash pumps handle water containing leaves, small stones, and debris
• Construction materials – stainless steel pumps from MyToolShed.co.uk provide excellent corrosion resistance for demanding environments or brackish water
• Portability – consider weight, carry handles, and whether cordless or petrol options better suit mobile applications
• Duty cycle – professional-grade units from brands like Draper and Sealey offer extended continuous running capabilities

Safety Information

Always position surface water pumps in well-ventilated areas away from water to prevent electrical hazards or carbon monoxide accumulation from petrol models. Ensure 240v electric pumps are protected by RCD devices and never operate with damaged cables. Petrol pumps should only run outdoors with adequate ventilation. Check inlet strainers regularly to prevent blockages and motor damage. Consult manufacturer instructions regarding minimum and maximum suction heights, and never run pumps dry as this causes seal and impeller damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a surface pump and a submersible pump?

Surface pumps remain above water level and draw water through a suction hose, making them easier to maintain and service. They're typically noisier but more accessible than submersible pumps, which operate fully underwater. Surface pumps generally suit applications requiring portability or where the pump location needs to stay dry.

How high can a surface water pump lift water?

Most surface water pumps can draw water from depths of 7-8 metres, though this reduces effective flow rate. Total head height (suction lift plus delivery height) typically ranges from 20-50 metres depending on the model, with multi-stage pumps achieving greater heights and pressures.

Can surface water pumps run continuously?

Professional-grade surface pumps are designed for extended operation, though duty cycles vary by model. Check manufacturer specifications for continuous running capabilities. Booster pumps often include automatic pressure switches for intermittent operation, whilst irrigation and transfer pumps may run for several hours continuously when properly maintained and not run dry.